A Man Chained to a Tree: Wickenburg’s Jail Tree

Apr 17

Updated 7/8/2023

Desert Prowl: Wickenburg, AZ — Located at 45 N Tegner St, Wickenburg, AZ 85390

In Wickenburg, Arizona there is a really old Mesquite tree sitting to the left rear side of a Circle K. It’s pretty interesting in itself that it’s been sitting there for over 200 years. But what’s most interesting is that it was used to keep prisoners captured.

The sign reads:

“From 1863 to 1890 outlaws were chained to this tree for lack of a hoosegow. Escapes were unknown”

Desert Prowl: Wickenburg, Arizona — Wickenburg Jail Tree 2016

Wickenburg didn’t have a hoosegow (jail) during this time so if you were an outlaw, a criminal or even a drunk in the Old West, you could have ended up chained to a jail tree. It could be days before a lawman would show up to take you to Phoenix. Note: There is a button you can push next to Clyde to hear about the history of the tree.

Now on to Clyde, as I like to call him. He’s the lifesize outlaw that is still chained to the tree. I’m kind of torn on whether he was an outlaw or a drunk. I’m leaning towards gambling and drunken brawls down at the saloon and probably a lot of smack talking, just look at that face.

So… while the Jail Tree is definitely a small attraction, it’s still pretty exciting if you’re a lover of the Wild West. I highly recommend checking out Wickenburg and saying hello to old Clyde.