City of Nogales

City of Nogales Municipal Water Report Info

Nestled along the Arizona-Mexico border, Nogales carries a rich heritage spanning over a thousand years. The city's name derives from the Spanish word for "walnut" – trees that once flourished in the mountain pass connecting Nogales, Arizona and Nogales, Mexico.

Historically, this area formed part of an ancient trade route later named El Camino Real (The King's Highway). Spanish conquistadors later traveled north through this valley seeking precious metals. Today, missions built during Spanish colonial times still dot the landscape.

Nogales marks the beginning of the Juan Bautista de Anza Trail, established in 1774. This historic path, created by approximately 200 pioneers with livestock and guides, connected Mexico to San Francisco. Modern visitors can experience this trail by foot, horseback, or vehicle while exploring historical structures, including the 1904 Courthouse.

During the 1800s, local farmers faced Apache raids targeting their cattle. The border region's history includes Pancho Villa's forces occupying Nogales, Mexico in 1914 during the Mexican Revolution, prompting a U.S. military presence that grew to over 10,000 soldiers.

Architectural enthusiasts will appreciate Nogales' diverse building styles, including Sonoran, Queen Anne Cottage, Second Empire, Spanish Colonial, Pueblo Revival, Mediterranean, and Bungalow styles throughout the downtown area. Historic Morley Avenue features stores like Kory Mercantile and Brackers Department Store, established in the early 1900s and still operated by descendants of pioneer merchants.