A black and white postcard of the Phelps Dodge Mercantile building in Douglas. The caption at the bottom reads “91527-- Phelps Dodge Mercantile Company, Douglas, Arizona” Written on the back in ink: “1915-1916 Sign on Phelps Dodge Bldg. says DO YOUR BIT.” The postcard is unused and was published by the H-H-T Company. Edward Francis Collection.

The Copper Queen Mercantile, later the Phelps Dodge Mercantile, functioned as the Super Wal-Mart of its day. Anything the miners or their families needed could be found here: fruit, vegetables, dry goods, clothing, furniture, children’s toys, or hardware. If there was a need, the Mercantile could usually supply it. The Copper Queen Mercantile in Douglas opened in 1903 and operated out of a three story building. The store closed down in Douglas after the smelter shuttered in 1987. It was later remodeled and now serves the community as the Douglas Government Center-Cochise County Regional Service Center.

1980.65.63