By Scottsdale Mayor David D. Ortega
Photos courtest of Scottsdale Historical Society

Dear Scottsdale Families,
Scottsdale thrives in the diverse Sonoran Desert, which stretches from the Gulf of Baja California, northward through Scottsdale and westward to the Colorado River. The indigenous and archeological history encompass thousands of years and still intrigues us today. The Hohokam people created a network of canals and cultivated this desert land while establishing villages, from around 300 BC to 1450 AD. Similarly, we must acclimate to the desert.

Joan Fudala, Scottsdale Historian and author, states in her book “Historic Scottsdale: A Life from the Land,” that the River Hohokam people in and around what is present day Scottsdale diverted “…river water year-round through ditches and brush dams…living in villages of clustered brush structures and grew a variety of crops.” The lifestyle of the River Hohokam was different from the Upland Hohokam, who according to Ms. Fudala, lived at a “…site at the northern base of the McDowells.” It is believed that the Pima and Tohono O’odham are descendants of the Hohokam. The Yavapai people later lived in the area after the Hohokam. Today, we recognize the cultures of our friends at the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation to the east and our kind neighbors at the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

In the 1500s, Spain claimed the lands that we call California and Mexico and much of the land around it. Mexico later declared its own independence from Spain in 1821 and 27 years later the area we know as the American southwest was ceded by Mexico to become U.S. territories.

In the early 1900s at the age of 18, Scottsdale’s most famous vaquero, known as Gerbacio “Harvey” Noriega, made his way from Sonora to work at DC Ranch. The young cowboy skillfully worked his way up the ranks at the busy ranch in north Scottsdale. Harvey liked his coffee black, took meds for his pains, smoked heavily and died at the age of 104. Harvey is the vaquero inspiration, some say, for the memorable “Welcome to Historic Old Town” sign on Scottsdale Road.

The rich Western legacy of Scottsdale art, culture, and Southwest heritage can be experienced at the Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, a Smithsonian affiliate. Also do not miss the Rodeo Museum in Old Town, which displays Harvey’s saddle and hat, and memorabilia of the historic Parada del Sol.
We are the latest inhabitants of the Sonoran Desert which we love. Respecting the desert means understanding the rugged yet fragile ecosystem, learning from indigenous peoples about sustainable water and land policies, and living a harmonious future.
Of course, enjoying the outdoors – especially in times of extreme heat – requires common sense precautions for oneself and especially for our children and pets.

Until next time, let’s celebrate the rich Western Heritage of Scottsdale!

 

 

David D. Ortega is a professional architect, 45 year resident of Scottsdale, and serves as the mayor of Scottsdale.