Sunset, Arizona, Coconino County was once a thriving settlement that now stands silent as a reminder of times gone by. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Coconino County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 35.2486° N, 111.8344° W
Elevation: Approximately 4,900 feet (1,494 meters)
Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST)
Established: 1876
Disestablished: 1884
Comments: Sunset was established by Mormon pioneers led by Lot Smith as part of the Little Colorado River settlements. The settlement was named for the stunning sunsets visible from the area. The community faced numerous challenges, including floods, drought, and crop failures, which ultimately led to its abandonment.
Remains: Little remains of Sunset today. Some remnants of foundations and irrigation ditches can still be found, but they are mostly obscured by time and nature. The Sunset Cemetery, where many of the settlers were laid to rest, remains as a poignant reminder of the town’s past.
Current Status: Sunset is considered a ghost town, and the site is primarily used for historical and archaeological purposes. It is located within the boundaries of the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, adding to its historical significance.
Remarks: Sunset’s brief existence and its eventual demise underscore the harsh realities faced by early settlers in the Arizona Territory. Despite its challenges, the community’s efforts contributed to the broader history of Mormon settlements in the region. Visitors to the area today can appreciate the natural beauty and historical context of this once vibrant settlement.
