Near Bowie in Cochise County, Arizona — The American Mountains (Southwest)
Parke Camp Site
Photographed By Bill Kirchner, January 8, 2017
1. Parke Camp Site Marker
Inscription.
Parke Camp Site. . In March 1854, Lt. John Parke of the Topographical Engineer Corps led a survey party in search of an all-weather route for the transcontinental railroad. After a march of 55 waterless miles through Sulphur Springs Valley, the party entered Apache Pass. They camped at this spot, described by Parke as a "small triangular valley with an abundance of grass and wood." For two days the men rested, enjoying Apache Spring and the friendly curiosity of the Apaches. , A year later, Parke found an easier pass to the north. In 1880, the rail line was completed through Parke's Railroad Pass, between Wilcox and the town of Bowie.
In March 1854, Lt. John Parke of the Topographical Engineer Corps led a survey party in search of an all-weather route for the transcontinental railroad. After a march of 55 waterless miles through Sulphur Springs Valley, the party entered Apache Pass. They camped at this spot, described by Parke as a "small triangular valley with an abundance of grass and wood." For two days the men rested, enjoying Apache Spring and the friendly curiosity of the Apaches.
A year later, Parke found an easier pass to the north. In 1880, the rail line was completed through Parke's Railroad Pass, between Wilcox and the town of Bowie.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Exploration • Railroads & Streetcars. A significant historical month for this entry is March 1854.
Location. 32° 9.066′ N, 109° 26.989′ W. Marker is near Bowie, Arizona, in Cochise County. Marker can be reached from Fort Bowie Trail, 0.4 miles south of Apache Pass Road. Marker is located along the trail at the Fort Bowie National Historic Site. For most visitors access to the fort is via a 1.5 mile hiking trail of moderate difficulty. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Bowie AZ 85605, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Bascom Affair (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Bascom-Cochise Meeting Site (approx.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 15, 2017. It was originally submitted on January 13, 2017, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona. This page has been viewed 559 times since then and 31 times this year. Photos:1, 2, 3. submitted on January 13, 2017, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona.
