The Spirit Lives On
Gold came down from the Bradshaw Mountains—and Whiskey Row came to life.
Ranchers rode in from the high country. Politicians and businessmen settled in for dinner. Lawmen and outlaws sometimes found themselves at the same table.
Some hadn’t seen town in months. Others ran it.
And when they came to Prescott, they came ready to live well.
In 1891, entrepreneur Dennis A. Burke built one of Arizona’s finest hotels right here at the corner of Montezuma and Gurley—a place where good food, good whiskey, and lively company were always close at hand.
The table reflected what was available—steaks from nearby ranches, vegetables from fields along Granite Creek, fresh-baked breads, and what the markets offered that day.
Whiskey Row would burn more than once, but the spirit endured. Today, The Burke continues that tradition—good food and drink born of the West, with just a touch of the wild.
1864
Prescott is born.
Gold, opportunity, and wild ambition bring the territorial capital to life.
1868
The Diana Saloon Opens.
Right here at Montezuma and Gurley. Hailed as Prescott's “largest and most magnificent edifice.”
1883
The First Fire.
On July 4th, Whiskey Row goes up in flames, taking the Diana Saloon with it.
1891
Hotel Burke Opens.
Boasting “an Excellent Kitchen” and “the Best of Liquors and Cigars.”
1900
The Great Fire.
Whiskey Row burns again, taking the “only fire-proof hotel in Prescott” with it.
1901
Hotel St. Michael Rises.
A grand new hotel rises from the ashes, built in part with bricks salvaged from the fire, carrying the spirit of the old Burke into a new era. It would later take the name of St. Michael, the archangel of protection.
2026
The Burke Returns.
The Best of the West, served with a taste of the finer things.
Eat Well. Stay Wild.
