WELLTON

Wellton can thank the railroad for its name. Founded in 1878, it was known in those days as “Well Town” because it supplied trains with water from wells that had been drilled in the area.

Located along Interstate 8 on the east side of the Gila Mountains,Wellton was incorporated in 1970,almost a century after its founding.

Agriculture remains the town’s No.1 industry,but the last couple of decades have seen recreational vehicles parks established in Wellton to accommodate winter visitors seeking a slower pace than what might otherwise be afforded inYuma or the Foothills.Wellton’s yearround population is just under 3,000.

The town has such attractions for full-year and winter residents as a Family Services Center,the 18-hole Butterfield Golf Course,a community center,the N.D. & Katie Kline Pool.Golfers also have the option of playing 18 holes at the Links at Coyote Wash on the south side of I-8.

Wellton has its own elementary school, while the town’s teens attend Antelope Union High School in nearby Roll.

Wellton also has a branch of Arizona Western College, a branch of the Yuma County Library District,and a museum, the Wellton-Mohawk Fire Arts and Historical Association.

Popular public events in Wellton include the Wellton-Mohawk Tractor Rodeo, the Pioneer Days celebration, Wellton World of Wheels car show,Water Dog Day,a Fourth of July celebration, Veterans Day parade, Kiwanis Thanksgiving dinner and Christmas tree lighting in Westside Park.