Taylor lies in a broad valley in east-central Arizona at an elevation of 5,640 feet with the Mogollon Rim to its west and the White Mountains to the south. The mountains form an almost continuous barrier protecting Taylor from severe winters and creating a semi-arid climate. The Town of Taylor, named after John Taylor, the third president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, was settled by James Pearce in 1878 and later incorporated in 1966. Google Map
Taylor Town Logo: Drum & Anvil- The logo represents two family traditions that have grown to include the whole town. First is the Standiford family tradition of “The Firing of the Anvil” every 4th of July at 4:00 a.m. with a loud BANG! After that there is a serenade of patriotic music from the Jennings Band. This awakening call goes on as the anvil is fired in different locations around town. This unique tradition began with the Taylor Pioneers, was revived in 1953, and continues still, drawing people home throughout the U.S.A.
Jennings Drum- The historical drum, constructed by Major Edward Duzette, was made of cowhide, birch, and hickory and used in the Nauvoo Legion Band in the 1830’s. It was hauled across the plains on the back of Brigham Young’s carriage with the first company of Mormon pioneers in 1847 and later given to Cyrus Jennings, hence it is known as the Jennings drum.
The Anvil- The heavy duty anvil was used by the Mormon Battalion in 1847. It was later brought to Taylor by Joseph S. Hancock in the late 1800’s to be used in his blacksmith shop. In the late 19th century, Taylor’s forefathers came up with the idea of “firing” it as a substitution for the cannon & fireworks.
The Town of Taylor was incorporated in 1966. It currently occupies 26 square miles and serves a population estimated at 4,262. The Town of Taylor is empowered by the citizens to levy property taxes through a proper election, but as of today levies no property taxes, nor has ever levied a tax on property. The Town is also empowered by state statute to extend its corporate limits by annexation, which it has done from time to time.
The Town of Taylor has operated under the Council-Manager form of government since 1990. Policy-making and legislative authority are vested in a governing Council (Council) consisting of the mayor and six other Council members, all elected on a non-partisan basis. The Council appoints the Town manager, who in turn appoints the heads of various departments. Council members serve four-year terms which are staggered between a two-year election-cycle. The mayor is appointed from within the Council.
The Town of Taylor provides a full range of services, including ambulance and fire protection; the construction and maintenance of highways, streets and other infrastructure, parks and cultural activities. The Town also operates a water and sewer utility and an airport.