Snowflake's Pioneer Legacy: A Historical Haven
Snowflake, Arizona, is a town steeped in history, with a rich heritage that dates back to the late 19th century. At the heart of this small town lies Heritage Inn, a Victorian-style retreat that has been meticulously preserved. Once the home of Osmer D. Flake, the sixth child of William Morgan Flake, the town's founder, it has now been transformed into a charming bed-and-breakfast.
The inn's Lucy Hanna Flake Room, now known as the Sunflower Spot, is a favorite among visitors. Kirsten Dunst, the renowned actress, reportedly stayed here during her cross-country road trip. With rates ranging from $120 to $160 per night, visitors can choose from the three-bedroom copper house or one of the 12 suites.
But Snowflake's historical significance doesn't end with Heritage Inn. The town boasts over 100 historic homes, with 45 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A walking tour of Snowflake's pioneer history takes visitors through 14 carefully selected homes, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the town's early settlers.
The tour begins at the Stinson Museum, named after James Stinson, who settled the valley around 1870. William Flake, the town's founder, bought Stinson's ranch, and the museum provides an insight into this pivotal moment. The story of Snowflake's naming is also fascinating; it was named after both William Flake and church apostle Erastus Snow, who met and decided on the name together.
The tour also includes the home of James Madison Flake, William Flake's eldest son, and the Flake family's impressive Victorian-style home, affectionately known as 'The Big House'. Snowflake's historical society is gearing up for a significant celebration in 2028, marking the 150th anniversary of the town's founding.
Beyond the historical sites, Snowflake offers recreational activities like hiking the White Mountain trails or exploring Fool Hallow Lake. Nearby Show Low, a smaller town, has its own unique story, with a statue commemorating the card game that gave the town its name. Snowflake's history is intertwined with the Latter-day Saints and the development of agriculture and ranching in the region.
