Established in 1752 as a presidio (fort) to protect the early European settlers who founded the nearby Tumacacori Mission.  Tubac was first settled by the Spanish, but became part of Mexico when the country achieved independence in 1821. Tubac became part of the United States after the Gadsden Purchase in 1853, when it had become a ghost town.  In 1860, a revival was brought to the village when the tales of the ancient mines & rich minerals in the Santa Cruz Valley lured mining companies, prospectors, storekeepers, travelers & journalists to the area.  Tubac became the largest town in Az & published the state's first newspaper, The Weekly Arizonian.

Today, it is known as the place where art & history meet.  It is the home to many artists, artisans & crafts people, the Tubac Center of Arts, numerous studios & galleries, & offers items ranging from pottery, stain glass, blown glass, metal sculptures, jewelry, wood carvings, paintings & much more. It is not just a tourist place, but a place where Tucsonans go for quality art.