The Ericksons: Pioneer Settlers

Swedish immigrants Neil and Emma Erickson married in 1887 and established Faraway Ranch not far from here, one of the first permanent settlements in this area. The ranch was located about a mile east along the park road. Their first child, Lillian, was born at Fort Bowie, and two more children, Ben and Hildegarde, were born at the nearby ranch house. All except Lillian are buried in the Erickson family cemetery here. Family members eventually left to pursue careers elsewhere, but Lillian Erickson remained and became the "Lady Boss of Faraway Ranch." In 1923 she married Ed Riggs, and together they operated a guest ranch where visitors could enjoy the beauty of this "wonderland of rocks." The interest they generated in the area led to the establishment of Chiricahua National Monument in 1924.

Arizona · United States