PHOTO: Arizona Once Issued ‘License for Love’ in the 1800s

I must admit, finding a suitable title for this post while keeping it appropriate was quite a challenge, but I believe I did a decent job.

Arizona's history is rich and, at times, quite scandalous, especially during the mining boom of the 19th century. During this period, Arizona attracted many fortune seekers, leading to the establishment of rough-and-tumble mining towns.

These towns often became hotspots for various vices, including the presence of "ladies of the night."

READ MORE: 35 Interesting Arizona Facts You May or May Not Know

We need recognize that these women operated within a complex social landscape. Many turned to this profession out of necessity due to limited earning options in a harsh environment.

Rather than judge their choices, we should understand the historical context and challenges they faced. Ultimately, everyone does what they must to survive.

Arizona's History of the Oldest Profession in the World

It is hard to list all the towns and cities that had sex workers. In Tombstone, brothels included high-class establishments run by madams and rough "cribs" where the poorest workers faced difficult conditions.

In Phoenix, red-light districts like "Block 41" and later "The Deuce" became known for vice. Municipal licensing and fines supported these areas until prostitution was banned in 1918.

Jerome's mining district also had a lively sex trade. It continued to thrive despite occasional crackdowns, with workers often moving to avoid community pressure.

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The below post was shared on Reddit showing what a "prostitution license" looked like in the late 1800s. It cost women $2.50 --almost $100 in today's money-- for the license that lasted for three months.

Until the early 1900's prostitution was left up to the states. Here's a pic of a license issued in 1899.
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