Discover Oro Valley’s Rich History
Nestled in the shadow of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Oro Valley is a place with a captivating history that stretches back centuries. Long before it became a part of Pima County, Arizona, it was home to the Hohokam and Apache tribes. As time went on, it transformed into a bustling suburban destination.
The story of Oro Valley took a new turn with the Gadsden Purchase after the Mexican-American War in 1848, leading to an influx of American settlers. Post-Civil War, folks from Tucson migrated north, carving out a new community. Francisco Romero set up a cattle ranch in what is now Catalina State Park in 1869, while George Pusch, a German immigrant, established the Steam Pump Ranch along Cañada del Oro in 1874. The ranch gained fame for its reliable water source, courtesy of an innovative steam pump.
From 1903 to the 1940s, settlers like Francisco Marin and Francisco Aragon made their mark with homesteads. Later, affluent ranchers such as Joseph McAdams and Larence Rooney were attracted to the charm of desert living, purchasing extensive lands from these original settlers.
The 1950s brought new energy to the area with the opening of the Oro Valley Country Club. This milestone cemented Oro Valley’s status as an upscale community. Officially becoming a town in 1974, it now covers 31.9 square miles and had a population of 41,011 residents according to the 2010 census. Known as an “Upscale Tech Mecca,” Oro Valley is home to over 10 high-tech firms today.
Natural Wonders in Oro Valley
One of the town’s treasures is the Pusch Ridge Wilderness Area. Part of the Coronado National Forest, this 56,430-acre expanse was established in 1978 to protect the Desert Bighorn Sheep on Pusch Ridge. With its three peaks—Table Mountain, Bighorn Mountain, and Pusch Peak—the area offers stunning views and trails. You can start your adventure at the Pusch Ridge Trailhead on East Linda Vista Boulevard.
Golf and Community Spirit
The Oro Valley Country Club has been a vital part of the community since 1959. Designed by Robert Bruce Harris, it features a challenging 18-hole, par-72 golf course, along with a swimming pool, tennis courts, a clubhouse, and a dining area. The club made history by hosting the first Pacific-10 Women’s Golf Championships in 1987, followed by other prestigious tournaments like the Pac-10 Conference Women’s Golf Championships in 2006 and the Southwest Section PGA Championship in 2008.
Oro Valley’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. From its early days with Francisco Romero’s cattle ranch in 1869 to its current status as a vibrant tech hub, it remains a place proud of its diverse heritage and strong community spirit.
For more about Oro Valley’s history, you can check out this link.
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