A Short History of Phoenix, Arizona
If you ask us, Phoenix, Arizona, is a wonderful place to live or travel! There’s so much to see and do, not to mention the beautiful scenery and culture it consists of. There is much to know about this wonderful place, so we’re breaking down its rich history. And remember, if you’re visiting Phoenix or the surrounding areas, book a ride with All Valley Transportation so we can help you explore and make the most of your time here.
With that said, let’s get started…
It’s hard to believe Phoenix was anything more than the beautiful city it is today, but it wasn’t always this way. It also has an early Native American history, so let’s start here.
Hohokam Petroglyphs
In the beginning
The first settlers in the Phoenix, Arizona territory are known as the Hohokam tribe. They made the Phoenix area their home for over 2000 years and were able to make the Salt River Valley inhabitable. They did this by creating an irrigation system that reached over 135 miles. Some of the canals they created are still in use today!
The Hohokam tribe ended up vanishing in 1450 A.D. for unknown reasons. However, it is assumed they left due to an extended drought that ultimately made their decision to move on.
After the Hohokam tribe left the area, the Akimel O’odham, Tohono O’odham, and Maricopa tribes began to take over. They lived in smaller villages and grew their food to survive.
Central Arizona Project Canal
Founding years
After the early settlement, the United States took over the Phoenix area in 1848. Phoenix itself was later founded in 1867 by John W. Swilling. Swilling saw the dry soil in the area and realized the land could be farmed. It was relatively free of rocks and was far from snowy and heavy frost areas. All that was needed was water to make it happen.
He ended up establishing what is known as the Swilling Irrigation Canal Company. Swilling then moved to the Salt River Valley to begin digging a canal. It wasn’t long after, in March 1868, that water started to flow through the canal. This allowed them to create crops that summer and start a whole new life in the magical place of Phoenix.
Mythical Symbol for Phoenix
The name
You might be wondering why Phoenix was named Phoenix in the first place!
Darell Duppa is one of the settlers who was part of Swilling’s mission and is responsible for the name. He devised it based on the idea of a mythical phoenix rising from the ashes. He predicted the city of Phoenix would emerge from its previous civilization’s ruins and grow into something magnificent.
You can also learn about the city government and the Phoenix City Council here.
Growth
Roosevelt Dam, Arizona
February 14, 1912, was an exciting day for Phoenix. Arizona officially became a state today, and Phoenix was also named its capital. As the city continued to grow, so did the technological advances that helped to move the city forward.
(Do you know what the biggest stadiums are in Phoenix? Find out here.)
In 1906, Theodore Roosevelt began work on the Theodore Roosevelt Dam, which occupied the Salt River. This dam was essential for providing the water and electricity that helped power the city. At the time, it was the biggest dam in the world.
As technology grew in Phoenix, so did the population. By 1920, the city had expanded to 30,000 people. 1920 also marked the year the Heard Building was developed. This iconic building stands seven stories tall and (at that time) was considered a major addition to the city.
(Curious what Phoenix looked like in the 1930s? Local channel 12 news shares some neat photos here.)
Much of the economy’s success at the time was due to the Theodore Roosevelt Dam, which helped produce things like citrus, cattle, and cotton.
If you’re planning a visit to the Grand Canyon, this article covers your transportation options.
Older AC Unit on Phoenix Home
Post-World War II
At the end of World War II, Phoenix’s population continued to grow. Many of the veterans at Phoenix military bases returned there with their families. They realized its potential and what a great place it was to be.
Technological advances continued to influence the economy as Phoenix became an industrial city. This was also the time things like air conditioners began to take effect. Citizens quickly found an affordable way to cool residential homes and make for an even better living experience. It was also necessary, as temperatures in Phoenix skyrocket in the summertime.
1973 was also a noteworthy year as the Central Arizona Project began construction. This project brought a stable water supply to Phoenix, making the city a better place to live.
Here are some fun things to do in downtown Phoenix.
A busy freeway in Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix today
Phoenix is now a city that’s nothing short of fantastic and deserves its stellar reputation.
Today, the population is over 4.7 million. It is the United States’ fifth-largest city, covering over 520 square miles. Yet, as we look to the future, we see Phoenix only continues to grow as many people see it as a fantastic place to call home.
Phoenix is also a sought-after place to visit, with more than 19 million visitors annually.
10 things to do in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Tempe »
Visit Phoenix With All Valley Transportation!
We hope you enjoyed learning about the short history of Phoenix. If you plan on visiting, schedule your trip from the airport accordingly! All Valley Transportation is ready to help make it a breeze. We have a great group of drivers dedicated to providing the best service possible, no matter when you need it.
Did you enjoy learning about the history of Phoenix, Arizona?
Here are three more to read next:
- The 4 Major Sports Teams in Phoenix to Watch
- Golf in Phoenix: Top 5 Golf Courses in Scottsdale, AZ
- Top 5 Conventions in Phoenix
