Cave Creek Tubercular Cabin

In the early 1900s, physicians were recommending hot dry air, rest, and sunshine of the southwest as a possible cure for tuberculosis. Known as “lungers,” many people arrived from the east with many patients going on to live long and productive lives.Several tuberculosis camps were in the Cave Creek area, with the best known being the Desmount Sanitarium, located near present day E. Cave Creek Road and Bella Vista Drive.

The sanitarium opened in 1920 and closed mid 1930s with 14 cabins, plus a facility building. The cabins were light and portable and could be moved as needed. This cabin, at the Cave Creek Museum, is the last surviving cabin. It was donated to the museum by Santos Rubira in 1990 so that it could be preserved and was opened to the public on May 12, 1990.

Its restoration was possible with donations from Humana Hospital and citizens of Cave Creek and Carefree. It has original furnishings from this or similar cabins.In 2001, the Cave Creek Tubercular Cabin was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The cabin can be seen on the grounds of the museum at the back of the property.

The Cave Creek Museum is a fabulous gem. A small admission fee is charged, but the museum and its indoor and outdoor displays are well worth a visit.Dedicated:October 31, 2016Sponsor:Black Mountain Foothills Chapter, NSDAR