Patagonia

HISTORY

Often referred to as the "Jewel of the Sonoita Valley" because of its pastoral landscape and abundant wildlife, Patagonia is becoming known as an artist's colony, with shops, galleries, and unique restaurants along its downtown streets. Founded in 1898 by Rollin R. Richardson, the town was named for the nearby Patagonia Mine. The area's early history is rooted in mining and cattle ranching, and has some of best breeding ranches in the world for fine cattle and quarter horses.

BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY

Patagonia's economic base is in wholesale and retail trade and professional services. New construction is increasing as the area experiences new growth. The business district is concentrated around State Highway 82, which passes through the town's center. Extensive mineral exploration also is being conducted in the area.

STATISTICS

• Population: 928
• Incorporated: 1948
• County: Santa Cruz
• Elevation: 4,044
• Total Area: 1.2 square miles
• Average July High: 88
• Average January Low: 26
• Average Yearly Precipitation: 18.11
  
• Median Household Income: $25,795
• Median Age: 47
• City Sales Tax: 3.0%
• Cable Internet Service: No
• Fiber Optics: No
• (information current as of 6/2004)

ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS

Patagonia is an outdoor lover's paradise, and the town also is becoming known as an artist's haven filled with shops, galleries, and unique restaurants along its downtown streets. Some of the best attractions in the area are the small wineries in nearby Sonoita and Elgin. The Nature Conservancy's Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve is known internationally as a premier bird watching location, and is a great stop for hikers as well. Parker Canyon Lake, terrific for fishing and camping, is not far from Patagonia, and Patagonia Lake State Park is another wonderful spot for fishing, camping and boating. The ghost towns of Harshaw, Dusquesne and Washington Camp are located in the vicinity. The San Rafael Valley, located east of Patagonia, is a pristine high desert grasslands area with very low population and grand vistas.

 Annual events in town include a Fourth of July Celebration, the October Fall Festival celebration of music and art, San Juan's Day at the Native Seeds/Search Conservation Farm, an Annual Holiday Walking Tour, the Virgin of Guadalupe Celebration, the Patagonia Fall Festival with great entertainment and more than 150 arts, crafts and specialty food booths from around the Southwest, and the Mariachi Festival with live music and great food at Patagonia Lake.