Shortly after Prescott's founding in 1864, an area near the center of town began to accumulate saloons and other entertainment venues.

A third devastating fire, in 1900, led to the district being rebuilt once more, although several of the early establishments continued on after the rebuilding.

[3] Wyatt Earp, his brother Virgil (who served as Prescott constable), and Doc Holliday were all frequent visitors of The Palace Restaurant and Saloon on Whiskey Row.

[5] On July 14, 1900, another major fire struck Prescott, destroying five full city blocks, including most of Whiskey Row.

At least fifty temporary buildings for the lost businesses were erected across the street on the Courthouse plaza.