Bagdad is proud to have a prominent place in Arizona’s history as a thriving copper resource over the past 130-plus years. The first claims for copper were staked in Bagdad in 1882. The property changed ownership numerous times through the first half of the 20th century, with the first mill beginning operation in 1928 to process ore from the underground mine. A transition to open-pit mining began in 1945, and a $240 million expansion in 1973 included new haul trucks, shovels, nearly 400 housing units, and concentrators which shaped the Bagdad we know today.
This building opened its doors in 1973 as a place for the contractors to hang out after their work in the mine. Shortly after, it became a restaurant and bar, but those who worked here were still considered an employee of the mine. The mine grew and so did the town, and then the restaurant became a privately owned business and an icon in the Bagdad community.
Then in 1984, the value of copper dropped to an all-time low. The mine started laying off its workers, and the restaurant had to close its doors. It reopened in 1985 and became a pizza joint in 1987. The restaurant closed again in 2001. In 2006, the building was remodeled from the floor up and was reopened as a steakhouse. The only thing left was the original bar top which once was the longest continuous bar in Yavapai and Maricopa County.
Copper Country Bar & Grill opened in 2016 under new ownership. Through the highs and lows of the copper industry, this building has survived decades of change. Today, Copper Country is known for its incredible food and its lively environment. As it has been for many years, this restaurant will continue to be a staple in the Bagdad community and an attraction for tourists year after year.