Tombstone Restoration Commission - Preserving History Since 1949

Our Mission

Preserving the past to enrich the future.

The Tombstone Restoration Commission (TRC) is dedicated to the historic preservation, rehabilitation, and conservation of Tombstone's unique architectural and cultural heritage. As the stewards of "The Town Too Tough To Die," we work tirelessly to maintain the authentic character that makes Tombstone a living testament to America's Wild West era.

Through careful restoration projects, educational initiatives, and community engagement, we ensure that our town's history continues to inspire and educate future generations while supporting the local economy through heritage tourism.

Preservation

Protecting historical integrity

Education

Sharing historical knowledge

Community

Engaging local stakeholders

Stewardship

Responsible management

Our History

1949: Founding

The Tombstone Restoration Commission was established by a group of concerned citizens led by Harold Morgan, a local businessman alarmed by the deterioration of historic buildings. In the aftermath of World War II, these visionaries recognized the importance of preserving Tombstone's unique architectural heritage for future generations.

The founding members worked without pay, using their own tools and soliciting donations of materials from local businesses. Their first project was the stabilization of the Tombstone Epitaph building, demonstrating the power of community-driven preservation.

1950s-1960s: First Major Projects

During these formative decades, the TRC secured its first government grants and expanded its scope. The commission partnered with the State of Arizona to restore the Tombstone Courthouse, which became a state historic park in 1959. This partnership set the precedent for collaboration between private citizens and government entities in preservation efforts.

By the 1960s, the TRC had completed restoration work on Allen Street's boardwalks and facades, helping to establish Tombstone's iconic western appearance that continues to draw visitors today.

1970s-1980s: Growth and Recognition

The 1970s brought national recognition when the TRC's work contributed to Tombstone being designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1972. This period saw the commission develop professional standards for historical accuracy in restoration, with archaeologists and historians joining the team.

The 1980s tourism boom, partly fueled by the popularity of the film "Tombstone," allowed the TRC to expand its fundraising and tackle larger projects, including the Bird Cage Theatre stabilization and restoration of the Crystal Palace Saloon.

1990s-2000s: Modernization

The commission entered the digital age in the 1990s, creating comprehensive digital archives of Tombstone's architectural heritage. This period also saw the establishment of educational programs, including workshops on traditional building techniques and conservation methods.

In 2005, the TRC launched its first website and online store, broadening its reach and fundraising capabilities. The restoration of Schieffelin Hall, Tombstone's opera house and theater, was completed in 2008, representing one of the commission's most significant achievements.

2010s-Present: Sustainable Preservation

Recent years have seen the TRC focus on sustainable preservation practices, incorporating energy efficiency into historic buildings without compromising their integrity. Climate change adaptation has become a priority, with projects addressing increased heat and monsoon intensity.

Today, the TRC continues to blend traditional techniques with modern technology, using 3D scanning and modeling to document buildings before restoration. Our membership has grown to over 5,000 supporters worldwide, and we continue to expand our educational initiatives while maintaining our core mission of preservation.

Meet Our Team

Eleanor Prescott

Executive Director

With a Ph.D. in Historic Preservation from the University of Arizona and over 20 years of experience, Eleanor has led the TRC since 2015. Her passion for Western architectural history and community engagement has helped expand our educational programs.

Michael Rodriguez

Preservation Director

Michael is a master carpenter and architectural conservator who oversees all restoration projects. His expertise in 19th-century building techniques ensures that our work maintains historical accuracy while meeting modern safety standards.

Sarah Wilkinson

Curator and Historian

Sarah manages our archives and research division, ensuring all restoration work is grounded in historical evidence. A published author on Tombstone's history, she also develops our educational materials and leads heritage walking tours.

James Thompson

Development Director

James leads our fundraising and grant writing efforts, having secured over $3 million in preservation funding during his tenure. His background in nonprofit management and passion for historic tourism drives our sustainability initiatives.

Maria Gonzalez

Education Coordinator

Maria develops our school programs, workshops, and community outreach initiatives. A former teacher with a master's in Museum Education, she creates engaging experiences that connect Tombstone's history to diverse audiences.

Robert Jenkins

Volunteer Coordinator

Robert manages our dedicated team of over 200 volunteers who contribute to preservation projects, educational activities, and special events. A Tombstone native, his deep community connections help ensure local involvement in our work.

Board of Directors

Our volunteer board brings expertise from diverse fields including architecture, history, business, law, and community development.

Katherine Stevens

Board Chair

David Monroe

Vice Chair

Linda Earp

Treasurer

Thomas Wilson

Secretary

Richard Holliday

Director

Susan Parker

Director

Learn More About Our Board

Our Achievements

National Preservation Award (2018)

Recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation for excellence in heritage conservation and community engagement.

75+ Historic Buildings Restored

From iconic structures like the Bird Cage Theatre to residential buildings, our work spans the entire historic district.

Educational Impact

Our programs have reached over 50,000 students, helping new generations connect with Arizona's heritage.

Economic Contribution

Our restoration work has helped increase heritage tourism, creating jobs and generating over $20 million in economic activity.

Documentation & Research

We've built comprehensive archives documenting Tombstone's architectural evolution, creating a valuable resource for researchers.

Community Building

Our volunteer program has engaged thousands of community members in hands-on preservation work, building local pride and ownership.

View Our Projects

About Us