BEN WILLIAMS

Born in Wales in 1852, Ben Williams moved to the United States and eventually made his way to Bisbee, Arizona, profoundly impacting its development. Initially working in San Francisco, his life shifted in 1880 when he and his brother, Lewis, took over the management of the Copper Queen Mine. Their innovative methods transformed the mine, which produced over 700 tons of copper in its first year under their management.

Ben's influence extended beyond mining. He played a key role in turning Bisbee into a thriving community, earning it the nickname "Queen of the Copper Camps." His efforts helped create a vibrant cultural and community spirit that defined the town.

Ben retired in 1899 and passed away in 1925, leaving a lasting legacy in Bisbee through his contributions to the mining industry and the community. His work, along with that of his brother and other family connections, like his father-in-law, Judge Dewitt Bisbee, for whom the town was named, cemented his status as a pioneer of both mining and culture in Arizona.