top of page

Our History

The Full Story

1864: Before

Prescott was named the capital of the Arizona Territory by President Abraham Lincoln in 1864.

1903: The Beginning

Built in 1903, the Samuel Hill Hardware Co. Warehouse showcases stunning brickwork and massive timber construction. Designed to support heavy farming and mining machinery, its top floor aligned perfectly with railroad boxcar doors for seamless loading.

1984: Historic Recognition

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984, the warehouse was celebrated for its authenticity and craftsmanship. The recognition secured its place as a vital piece of Prescott’s turn-of-the-century industrial history

1980: End of an Era

The Sam Hill Hardware Co. operated for nearly eight decades, becoming the largest supplier of hardware, ranching, and household goods in the region. The company closed in 1980, marking the end of one of Prescott’s longest-running family businesses.

2006: Artistic Revival

Prescott College used the warehouse as a vibrant art gallery and studio.

2021: A New Chapter

The Whiting Brothers restored the warehouse and adjacent railway trestle bridge in 2021. Whiting Brothers added the warehouse's patio which ties the bridge and warehouse together. This creative adaptation preserved the building's historic charm and repurposed it for modern use.

Event Center at Sam Hill Warehouse Logo - JPG (1) (1).jpg

Fun Fact

The Warehouse and the bridge were both in the Junior Bonner movie with Steve McQueen and Robert Preston in 1971

The Old Motto

The old motto was “Everybody Swears by Sam Hill” and folklore still surrounding the origins of the phrase: “Where in the Sam Hill.” 

r4v5g-wq-1_51_2021159-163405608879695.webp
samhilloutside.jpeg

The Space

The Event Center at Sam Hill Warehouse has over 4,500 square feet of indoor event space and 3,000 square feet of exterior event space, our venue can accommodate weddings, social gatherings, and corporate events.

Stress-Free Planning

In addition to in-house equipment, we maintain a list of qualified vendors for your convenience including florists, bakeries, photographers, bands, and event planners.

SamHill_TroyMeiklePhoto_139.JPG
bottom of page