Southeast Arizona Medical Center: Our Community.

Our Community

Welcome to Douglas, Arizona!

Douglas, Arizona is in the County of Cochise situated on the US / Mexican border directly across from its sister city of Aqua Prieta. It is located 118 miles southeast of Tucson. Douglas has over 18,000 residents and was founded in 1901, and was later incorporated in 1905. Douglas was first established as a smelter site for the prosperous copper mines in Bisbee, Arizona. The town is named after mining pioneer James Douglas. Two copper smelters operated at the site.

The area also has a history of cattle ranching and agriculture dating back to the 1800's that continues to thrive to this day. The region also figures prominently in the history of the old west. Cochise County was home to many famous historical figures such as Cochise, Geronimo, John Slaughter, Wyatt Earp, and Doc Holliday and their stories played out across the tapestry of the mountains and grasslands of Cochise County.

Aviation has its place in Douglas history. The first International Airport is in Douglas. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and Amelia Earhardt opened the airport in 1928. Douglas was also one of the stops for the all women pilots of the puff Derby in the 1930's.

The historic landmarks in Douglas itself include the Hotel Gadsden, Southern Pacific Railroad Depot, and Slaughter's Ranch. The Grand Theatre where Ginger Rogers, John Philip Souza and many great acts from Vaudeville preformed. The Grand is being restored by community leaders, read about its rich history.If you enjoy the outdoors, the San Bernardino and Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Preserves are just minutes from town and they provide nature lovers a chance to observe over 283 species of wildlife. The Chiricahua Mountains, one of Arizona's largest mountain ranges, is also located close by.

Area Attractions