Phoenix, Arizona, is a city rich with history and unique stories that span centuries. From the ancient engineering marvels of the Hohokam people to its evolution into a bustling urban center, Phoenix’s past is as vibrant as its present. Here are ten fascinating historical facts about Phoenix that highlight its journey through time.
Phoenix’s Canals: A Hohokam Legacy
Phoenix owes its existence to the intricate irrigation system engineered by the Hohokam people. This indigenous tribe thrived in the region from around 800 A.D. to 1450 A.D., creating canals that transformed the Sonoran Desert into an agricultural oasis. Although the Hohokam mysteriously disappeared around 1450 A.D., their advanced canal system laid the groundwork for modern Phoenix. Many remnants of their civilization can be explored at the S’edav Va’aki Museum, formerly known as The Pueblo Museum.
Governor Hunt’s Pyramid Tomb in Papago Park
One of Arizona’s longest-serving governors, George Hunt, chose a unique resting place in Papago Park. Inspired by the discovery of King Tut’s tomb, Hunt’s pyramid tomb, built in 1932, remains a distinctive landmark near the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo.
Sleeping Porches: Phoenicians’ Cool Solution
Before air conditioning, Phoenicians had a creative way to beat the heat. They built sleeping porches and moved their beds outside to catch the night breeze. Heritage Square, home to the historic Rosson House, was part of Phoenix’s original townsite and showcases this adaptation.
The Wandering State Capitol
Arizona’s state capitol has an itinerant past. Initially designated in Prescott in 1864, it moved to Tucson in 1867, back to Prescott in 1879, and finally settled in Phoenix in 1899, where it has remained ever since.
Melinda’s Alley and The Adams Hotel
The storied past of Melinda’s Alley traces back to the Adams Hotel, built in 1895 by J.C. Adams. The hotel, which burned down in 1910 and was rebuilt in 1911, was a hub for dignitaries and state officials. Today, the speakeasy Melinda’s Alley, located in the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel, keeps this history alive.
Phoenix’s Near Miss with Pumpkinville
Early pioneers considered several names for the new settlement, including Pumpkinville, Salina, and Stonewall. Ultimately, they chose “Phoenix,” inspired by the mythical bird that rises from its ashes, symbolizing the city’s emergence from the ancient Hohokam ruins.
The Forgotten Airport of Phoenix
Air Haven, a private airport that opened in 1946 at 31st Ave. and Indian School Rd., served private planes and crop dusters. Phoenix’s first official city airport, Christie Field, was located at 59th Ave. and W. McDowell before Sky Harbor became the primary airport.
The First Building in Phoenix
The Hancock Store, built on the northwest corner of 1st St. and Washington, was Phoenix’s first building. This adobe structure served as a store, meat market, and the town’s and county’s offices. Today, this bustling downtown area is home to CityScape.
South Mountain Park’s Vast Wilderness
Spanning over 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the U.S., featuring over 50 miles of trails. The park also houses more than 30,000 petroglyphs from the Hohokam civilization.
Phoenix’s Almost Home in Tempe
Phoenix’s pioneers initially attempted to settle near “A” Mountain in Tempe but were thwarted by an underground limestone wall. They moved up the Salt River, leading to the establishment of Phoenix in its current location.
Explore these intriguing facets of Phoenix’s history to gain a deeper appreciation of the city’s rich heritage and the innovative spirit of its early inhabitants.
Ancient Photo Visualization by : Robert B. Ciaccio
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