Tubac offers blend of history and art

Arizona Daily Wildcat Lisa Pino/Arizona Summer Wildcat Wrought iron sculpture and other arts and crafts are prevalent in the town of Tubac- located off I-19 between Tucson and Nogales, Ariz. The town offers an assortment of food, galleries and people, and can be a short day trip.

The small town of Tubac hails itself as a place "where art and history meet" and indeed the community falls nothing short of its claim. Even though I arrived there sticky and tired on a sweltering Saturday afternoon, this artist community managed to charm my not- easily-charmed self. Whether it was the calm and endearing aura of the place or the smiles and hellos each time I entered a gallery I'm not sure. All I know is that I left feeling like a visitor instead of a tourist.

The entrance to Tubac consists of an eclectic array of galleries that carry more authentic Southwestern fare than the usual edibles found at the airport or the mall. The wares for sale are classy, unique pieces that reflect the Native American and Mexican cultural influences of our region. If you want to shop but the thought of bright Kokopellis or oversized dream catchers make you want to yack, shopping in Tubac is for you.

The galleries are on three main strips: Camino Otero, Tubac Road, and Plaza Road and offer oil paintings, Mexican furniture, sterling silver jewelry, handmade clothing, South American textiles, metal sculptures, and plenty more.

The pieces found at Tubac galleries are uniquely appealing and genuine by design.

I unexpectedly made a friend in The Purple Garlic, a store of "herbs and Epicurean delights." Bob Pettipiece, the owner, volunteered a tour of the gallery and told me about his hip landlords, Cooper and Bunny. The 73-year-old "Coop," still works in his bl acksmith shop out back, which doubles as a popular meeting place for locals.

The worksite, an impressive collage of iron, furnace, and tools serves as a chronicle of the past. Digesting Cooper's collected items feels like that first stale step into the attic. All at once a wagon wheel lies at your feet, a rusted tricycle suspends above your head, and an iron pony freezes at your side.

Pettipiece, who also sells organic produce, insisted on giving me some samples of organic apples before I left. Sour and tasty. I bit into these delights as I thanked him good-bye.

For grub, Tubac eateries are simple and satisfying. I suggest Shelby's Bistro or the Cafe Fiesta on Tubac Road for affordable salad and sandwich fare. A wooden footbridge will lead you to either cafe where you can dine al fresco and admire the Santa Rita mountains. If you need a pick me up - do what I did - cross the street to the Chile Pepper for an iced mocha and a generous ice cream cone.

Burruel Street on the other end of town encompasses the historical district, which includes the Presidio State Park, the Historical Society and Library, and St. Ann's Schoolhouse. The one-room schoolhouse is worth a peek. Its Puritan architecture brings t o mind how Laura Ingalls used to live.

If you'd like to spend more than a day in Tubac consider The Secret Garden Inn or the B&B on Burruel for cozy shelter. Rates are reasonable, but be sure to reserve well in advance.

To enjoy the secluded pleasures of Tubac just go south on Interstate 19 for 35 miles. The town's mellow pace and visible efforts of restoring the past comforted me as I hope they'll comfort you.