The Babbitt Brothers: A Legacy in Flagstaff's History

When it comes to Flagstaff's history, the Babbitt Brothers' legacy cannot be ignored. The Babbitt family has been a prominent figure in Flagstaff since the late 1800s. They have contributed significantly to the city's growth and development, and their impact can still be felt today. This blog post will explore the history of the Babbitt Brothers in Flagstaff and their enduring legacy.

The Babbitt Brothers were five brothers who moved from Cincinnati to Flagstaff in the late 1800s. They were John, George, Charles, Edward, and Frank Babbitt. John and George were the first to arrive in Flagstaff in 1886, and the other brothers followed soon after. They initially worked as clerks for the Flagstaff Lumber Company, but later decided to start their own business.

In 1890, the Babbitt Brothers established the Babbitt Brothers Trading Company, a general store that sold everything from groceries to hardware. The store quickly became a success, and the brothers expanded their business by acquiring other stores in the area. They also started investing in real estate and became one of the largest landowners in Flagstaff.

In addition to their business ventures, the Babbitt Brothers were also active in politics and civic affairs. John Babbitt served as mayor of Flagstaff in 1894 and again in 1901. George Babbitt was a member of the Arizona Territorial Legislature and served as Speaker of the House in 1895. The brothers also donated generously to local charities and organizations, including the Northern Arizona Normal School (now Northern Arizona University) and the Flagstaff Hospital.

The Babbitt Brothers' impact on Flagstaff can still be seen today. Their business ventures and investments helped to fuel the city's growth and development. They were instrumental in the establishment of the Northern Arizona Normal School, which later became Northern Arizona University. They also played a significant role in the development of the city's tourism industry.

The Babbitt Brothers Trading Company is still in operation today, although it has changed ownership several times over the years. The original building that housed the store still stands in downtown Flagstaff and is now home to a restaurant and bar.

The Babbitt Brothers also left behind a significant collection of documents and artifacts that provide a glimpse into Flagstaff's past. The collection includes business records, photographs, and personal correspondence. The collection is now housed at the Cline Library at Northern Arizona University and is available to researchers and the public.

In addition to their business and civic contributions, the Babbitt Brothers were also avid outdoorsmen and conservationists. They were instrumental in the establishment of the Coconino National Forest and worked tirelessly to promote the protection of natural resources. Their commitment to conservation has had a lasting impact on the region and continues to inspire environmental activists today.

The Babbitt Brothers' legacy in Flagstaff is significant and enduring. They played a critical role in the city's growth and development and left behind a rich collection of documents and artifacts that provide a glimpse into its past. Their commitment to conservation and philanthropy has also had a lasting impact on the region. Today, their contributions are celebrated and remembered through various monuments, buildings, and organizations that bear their name.

In conclusion, the Babbitt Brothers played a significant role in the history of Flagstaff and Arizona. Their businesses, community involvement, and commitment to environmental conservation have left a lasting legacy in the area. Today, the Babbitt family continues to be a vital part of Flagstaff's economic, cultural, and social fabric. Their story is a testament to the power of hard work, innovation, and community involvement, and serves as an inspiration to future generations.