Bonita is a ghost town located in Graham County, Arizona. Established in the late 19th century, it once served as a hub for local ranching activities. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Graham County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: Approximately 32°41′N, 110°20′W
Elevation: Approximately 4,500 feet (1,372 meters)
Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST) (UTC-7)
Established: Circa 1885
Disestablished: Circa 1950
Comments: Bonita catered primarily to the nearby Fort Grant, providing goods and services to military personnel and local ranchers. The town’s decline began in the mid-20th century, leading to its eventual abandonment. Notably, Bonita is near the site where Billy the Kid killed his first man, Francis “Windy” Cahill, in 1877. Cahill is buried in the nearby Bonita Cemetery.
Remains: Some structures, such as the Bonita Store, remain standing, offering a glimpse into the town’s past.
Current Status: Abandoned
Remarks: Bonita’s proximity to Fort Grant and its association with historical figures like Billy the Kid add a unique dimension to its history. The remaining structures and nearby cemetery serve as tangible links to the town’s storied past.
For a visual exploration of Bonita and its historical significance, you might find the following video insightful: