Taylor, on the banks of Silver Creek, is in a broad, flat valley in east-central Arizona. The Mogollon Rim to the south and White Mountains to the west form an almost continuous barrier protecting Taylor from severe winters while creating a semi-arid climate. Taylor was settled in 1881 by James Pearce and named after John Taylor, English-born president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Taylor has several sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Principal Economic Activities

With the proximity of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, NOVO Power, a biomass energy generator, and Tri-Star Trucking have formed a partnership. They have located a sawmill adjacent to the biomass plant just west of the town. The lumberjack mill nearby has increased production and jobs under the 4-Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI). Taylor is home to the corporate offices of Brimhall Sand and Rock, Hatch Construction and Paving, and Reidhead Sand and Rock. The Northeast Arizona Training Center is home to the Northern Arizona Law Enforcement Training Academy (NALETA). It also offers fire-service classes through Northland Pioneer College. The facility’s burn tower and driving track draw agencies from around the area. Taylor Municipal Airport boasts a 75 by 7,500-foot runway for corporate visitors. Ample land in the surrounding area makes Taylor an attractive opportunity for businesses looking for a new location.

Scenic Attractions

The Petrified Forest National Park, Painted Desert and Navajo Indian Reservation, including Monument Valley, lie to the north of Taylor. The majestic White Mountains, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and the Mogollon Rim lakes for fishing, boating and swimming are located just south. Sunrise Ski Resort is one hour south on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. Taylor has numerous registered historic sites and homes for tour. Many of these sites are included on the Trail of Many Tracks driving tour. A museum is in the center of town with one of the first one-room schools in Arizona.

Community Facilities

Taylor offers many community facilities including municipal parks with ramadas, picnic and barbeque facilities, walking trails, playgrounds, soccer and baseball fields and volleyball, basketball and racquetball courts. The city is home to a lighted, professional rodeo arena seating more than 5,000. Independence Day celebrations offer the earliest daytime parade in Arizona at five a.m. The festivities include firing the anvil, patriotic programs, a professional rodeo, community barbecue, fireworks and dances. A Sweet Corn Festival is held annually at Labor Day with parades, corn vendors, barbeque, craft vendors and dances. Numerous restaurants and fast food establishments are available.