Arizona Origins

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Arizona Origins We share unique stories, photos, and rare items that embody the rich history of Arizona and US SW

We are based outside Tucson, Arizona with the focus of sharing rare antiquities that capture the history of the American Southwest. As of 2021, we serve as a virtual museum and private historical society with hopes of having a physical location open to the public. We are active buyers with the intent of giving people fair prices for items that tell a story about early prehistoric (documented provenance) and historic Native American material culture (Pima "Tohono and Akimel O’odham), Hopi, Apache, Navajo), the Spanish Empire in the New World, 18th to early 20th century frontier life in Arizona/New Mexico, rare taxidermy, skulls, antique firearms, early general store memorabilia, rare first edition books, unique 19th century and early 20th century advertising, rare stereoviews, boudoirs, daguerrotypes, cabinet cards, or other early southwest photographs, and any other interesting historical items relating to the American Southwest. We can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at 781-296-5806.

The Origin of C L Evans’ Arizona Reptile Gardens (1930)Dating back to at least 1925, Arizona Reptile Gardens was one of ...
10/19/2026

The Origin of C L Evans’ Arizona Reptile Gardens (1930)

Dating back to at least 1925, Arizona Reptile Gardens was one of Phoenix’s early roadside attractions, originally located at 2228 E. Van Buren Street.

Operated by Charles L. Evans, a taxidermist and wildlife dealer, the business catered to travelers fascinated by the American Southwest. Visitors could explore exhibits and purchase live reptiles, preserved specimens, taxidermy, cactus plants, snakeskins, and even Mexican hairless dogs.

Over the following decades, the business evolved into Evans Reptile Gardens & Free Museum, becoming part of the colorful roadside culture that once defined Van Buren Street.

Pictured is a rare original photograph dated Easter Sunday, April 20, 1930, showing The Curiosity Shop – Live Reptile Market, believed to be associated with Evans’s early operation.

10/18/2026

Donofrio Cactus Candy (established 1887). Box is most likely 1910-1920. Do you have anything from Donofrio? We are searching for items!

Geronimo signature from the World Fair 1904.
10/17/2026

Geronimo signature from the World Fair 1904.

10/16/2026

Prehistoric Bird Pendent (Hohokam, Salado, Sinagua) all pieces found together and restrung (1100-1350AD). Photographed by Jerry Jacks and included in the book AD 1250.

A beautiful prehistoric turquoise inlay bird pendent that was found in Northern Arizona and restrung (1100-1300AD). It w...
10/10/2026

A beautiful prehistoric turquoise inlay bird pendent that was found in Northern Arizona and restrung (1100-1300AD). It was photographed by Jerry Jacka and included in the book, AD 1250.

10/04/2026

This is probably my favorite item I have ever seen or held relating to the prehistoric American Southwest. Hohokam/Salado Turquoise Inlay Frog Pendent (1100-1300AD).

10/03/2026

Hohokam Prehistoric Turquoise Inlay Bone Hairpin (1100-1300AD). All pieces were found together and reassembled with modern resin.

10/03/2026

Hohokam Prehistoric Bone Hairpin with original resin and turquoise placement (1100-1300AD).

10/02/2026

Hohokam Lizard Shell Pendent found on the surface in Florence, AZ (1100-1300AD). All items collected on private property.

10/02/2026

Hohokam Carved Desert Bighorn Shell Bracelet (1100-1300AD). Private collection legally obtained from private property.

Address

11061 N Oracle Road Suite 150
Oro Valley, AZ
85737

Opening Hours

Saturday 10am - 6pm
Sunday 10am - 6pm

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