In December of 2017 six friends met at the Yavapai Title company on Montezuma St. to consider forming a new group of individuals with similar interests in preserving and promoting the unique history of our 48th state, Arizona.

Choosing the name for the group came months later. The definition of territorial meant “Relating to a particular territory, defending and caring about it with strong support”. That was certainly our mission and therefore perfect for our name! Residing in the town of Prescott is unique in the fact that it was a Territorial Capitol on two different occasions (1867 & 1877). It was the only Territorial Capitol EVER created where there was not even a town!

Arizona Territorial Society’s Mission Statement reads:

“Dedicated to preserving the past, educating the public and supporting the community.”

Arizona Territorial Society (ATS) was founded on December 4th, 2017, to promote and preserve history and heritage of Prescott and the surrounding areas. This group’s interest is to include many aspects of history, dating from 1863 to 1912, through events, presentations, lectures, teas, historical fashion shows and more. ATS endeavors to educate and entertain its members and the public about the unique part Prescott played in the Civil War, and its establishment as the first territorial capitol. ATS is a 501c3 non-profit organization. Proceeds are used to help the community in various ways.

Our members enjoy varied activities, such as, volunteering as docents and guides at local museums, assisting historical organizations, taking trips to historical areas, and lending support to other local groups, such as, Arizona Cowboy Poets, and the World’s Oldest Rodeo.