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Where Roads, Red Rocks, and Real History Meet...Arizona Roundup Visits the Sedona Heritage Museum with Nate Myers
Arizona Roundup with Stuart Rosebrook continues its exploration of the people, places, and stories that shape the heritage of Arizona. in this engaging episode, Rosebrook welcomes Nate Myers, Executive Director of the Sedona Heritage Museum, for a lively and thoughtful  conversation about Sedona’s past, the importance of preserving community history, and the fascinating stories behind one of Arizona’smost beloved destinations. From Upstate New York Snow to Arizona Sunshine Nate Myers’ personal story adds a warm and relatable dimension to the conversation. Born in Syracuse and raised partly in upstate New York after earlier family years in Arizona, Myers eventually found his way back to the Southwest. After studying history and trumpet performance in college, he initially tried teaching but soon realized that the classroom was not where he was meant to stay. Instead, a chance opportunity at the Chandler Museum opened a door he hadn’t expected. Within a week of starting the job, he knewhe had discovered his calling. Museums, he realized, offered a unique way to connect people with the past while building stronger communities in the present. Why Museums Matter Myers credits mentors like respected public historian Dr. Noel Stowe and longtime Chandler Museum director Jody Crago for helping shape his approach to museum leadership. Their influence reinforced a key idea: museums should not simply store artifacts—they should actively involve the community and help people understand the stories that shaped their region. In an era when life moves quickly and information comes in fragments, institutions like local museums provide something rare: perspective and continuity. How the Road Put Sedona on the Map One of the most fascinating segments of the program focuses on transportation history. Myers explains how Route 66 and the development of Highway 89A helped transform Sedona from an isolated canyon community into an internationally known destination. When Route 66 was completed in 1926, it dramatically increased travel across northern Arizona. That surge in motorists made it clear that Sedona needed better access. Improvements through Oak Creek Canyon and the completion of Midgley Bridge in 1939 opened the area to tourism and new economic growth. The lesson is timeless: access changes destiny. From Western Movies to Global Destination Sedona’s striking landscape soon attracted filmmakers. Its red rock formations and canyon scenery became a natural backdrop for Western films during the golden age of Hollywood. One particularly memorable example is the John Wayne classic Angel and the Badman. Republic Studios constructed an entire Western movie set in Sedona for the film. While most of that set eventually disappeared, the Sedona Heritage Museum preserves the only surviving building from that production—the telegraph office featured in the movie. Visitors today can still see that piece of cinematic history. A Museum That Welcomes Visitors The Sedona Heritage Museum continues to bring the region’s story to life with exhibits, speaker series, demonstrations, and community programs. A major upcoming exhibit titled “The Road is Life” explores Sedona’s relationship with Route 66 and the history of road travel in northern Arizona. Located on the historic Jordan property, once part of a working orchard, the museum offers visitors a personal and intimate connection to Sedona’s heritage. Things to Remember Sedona’s rise as a world‑famous destination was shaped not only by its natural beauty but by infrastructure, storytelling, and community leadership. Careers often emerge from unexpected opportunities. Nate Myers’ journey into museum work is a reminder that curiosity can lead to meaningful work. Museums play a vital role in preserving identity and strengthening communities. Things to Share Share this Arizona Roundup episode with history lovers, travelers, and anyone who appreciates the deeper story behind beloved places. Share the idea that preserving community history helps future generations understand where they came from and where they are going. Things to Take Notice Of and Act Upon Plan a visit to the Sedona Heritage Museum to explore its exhibits, events, and programs. Support local museums and historical organizations that work to preserve community memory. Consider how the story of access and connection—roads to Sedona—applies to your own life and work. Closing Thought Sedona may be famous for its red rocks and breathtaking scenery, but this Arizona Roundup conversation reminds us that behind every beautiful landscape lies a deeper human story. Roads were built, communities were formed, and people worked carefully to preserve the history that defines the region today. Thanks to leaders like Nate Myers and institutions like the Sedona Heritage Museum, that story continues to inspire new generations of visitors and residents alike.
Arizona Roundup with Stuart Rosebrook at Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott AZ
https://sharlothallmuseum.org/
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