Cave Creek – Kraig R. Nelson, accomplished writer, speaker, volunteer and community participant, understands the power of volunteerism and giving back. After all, he has given his time and talent to Cave Creek Museum for more than 16 years.
Nelson got involved with the museum as a docent (volunteer) in 2008 before serving on its board of directors. Voted Docent of the Year in 2014, he became the museum’s historian in 2016. He has written a monthly history column for the museum since 2011 and also writes for a number of media outlets on a regular basis.
“When we embrace and study history, we enrich our future,” says Nelson.
His vast involvement in the community has only enhanced his expertise. The nationally published author has written features for Images of America, North Valley Magazine and the Foothills Focus (both published by Times Media Group, where he reaches more than 200,000 readers per issue), Peak Magazine, True West Magazine and Carefree/Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce’s communication, among others. The museum volunteer also has lectured on YouTube, giving him national exposure.
Along with his museum work, Nelson has been a member of the Arizona Archaeological Society since 2011, where he achieved an Advanced Southwest Archaeology certification. And, Desert Foothills Land Trust, a nationally accredited land trust that he has worked with for many years, named Nelson Volunteer of the Year in 2013. He has authored several columns for the organization.
“May your history be honorable,” adds Nelson. “May your future be historic. Be kind…and always keep learning,” adds Nelson.
Just as significant, he is a distinguished member of the Cave Creek Museum’s Speakers Bureau and regularly presents a number of historical and gold prospecting topics. Nelson also has addressed the history of the Hohokam and the birth of Phoenix; the creation of the Spur Cross Conservation area and its history; Cave Creek’s dude ranches; creation of the Arizona territory leading to statehood; and the history and development of Carefree.
“I believe that giving back to one’s community as a volunteer, is a noble endeavor,” says Nelson. “As a Cave Creek Museum volunteer, one is able to give back to the community, one individual at a time.”
When he isn’t sharing his expertise with others, Nelson is an associate broker for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Arizona Properties. Organizations interested in Nelson for a presentation, or to reach the museum’s Speakers Bureau, should contact Cave Creek Museum at 480.488.2764.
The 54-year-old museum’s mission is to preserve the artifacts of the prehistory, history, culture and legacy of the Cave Creek Mining District and the Cave Creek/Carefree foothills area through education, research and interpretive exhibits. The Cave Creek Museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Drive in Cave Creek, Ariz. Open October through May. The museum can be reached at 480.488.2764 or cavecreekmuseum.org
