Boot Hill, Tombstone

Boot Hill, located in the historic city of Tombstone, Arizona, is a quintessential Wild West cemetery that marks the final resting place of some of the most notorious figures from the era of outlaws and gunslingers. Established in 1878, this graveyard is an evocative symbol of the tumultuous times that once ruled this frontier town.

Visitors who come to Boot Hill will find themselves stepping back in time, as they walk among the graves marked by simple wooden crosses, many bearing names and the fateful dates of those who lived and died by the gun. Some of the most famous residents include the victims of the infamous O.K. Corral shootout, a pivotal event in the annals of the American West.

The cemetery's name, "Boot Hill," is derived from the phrase "died with their boots on," which was commonly used to describe those who met their end violently, often in gunfights or by hanging, rather than from natural causes. This Boot Hill is one of several so-named cemeteries scattered across the old West, but Tombstone's Boot Hill stands out for its historical significance and the legends that surround it.

For the tourist seeking an authentic experience of the Wild West, Boot Hill offers a poignant glimpse into the harsh realities of frontier life. The cemetery is open to the public, and there is no charge for admission, although donations are appreciated to help with maintenance and preservation. Informative signs and a small gift shop provide context and souvenirs for the history enthusiast.