By Mick Woodcock

Mention of Easter in early Prescott doesn’t show up in newspapers until 1876, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t being celebrated in town before that. According to the June 15, 1867 Arizona Miner, the Prescott Sunday School had been open for a year. The July 15, 1867 Arizona Miner had the following announcement: “Religious Service. – By an announcement in our advertising columns it will be seen that hereafter, religious service will be held in Prescott every Sabbath, at 11 o’clock, A. M. at the building of Messrs. Blair & Elliott, on Montezuma street. We understand these gentlemen generously agree to furnish the building free of cost, and Rev. Mr. Blake offers to preach upon the same terms….”