Mescal Arizona History

Mescal, Arizona, originated as a rail station on the Southern Pacific Railroad at an elevation of 4,085 feet.

The town's development was closely tied to its role as a railroad stop, serving as a hub for transportation and commerce in the early 20th century. A post office operated in Mescal from 1913 until 1931, reflecting its significance during that period.

In addition to the Southern Pacific Railroad, the El Paso and Southwestern Railroad (EP&SW) played a pivotal role in Mescal's railroad history. The EP&SW constructed a line that crossed the Southern Pacific near Mescal on a 200-foot steel bridge, then ran parallel for several miles before continuing westward to Tucson. This route was engineered to avoid the challenging terrain of Cienega Canyon and the steep grades faced by the Southern Pacific line, offering a more efficient path for rail traffic.

The EP&SW's strategic construction choices highlight Mescal's importance as a railroad junction, facilitating transportation and contributing to the town's growth during the early 1900s.