Through Phoenix

I made my way through downtown Phoenix, Arizona over the weekend. Solo, not in a big pace line like these fellows riding through there in the 1880s.

On April 10, 1874, President Grant issued a patent to Judge Alsap for the present site of Phoenix. The declaratory statement was filed at the Prescott Land Office on Feb. 15, 1872. Official entry was made at the Florence Land Office on Nov. 19, 1873. The total cost of the Phoenix Townsite of 320 acres was $550, including all expenses for services. In 1874, downtown lots were selling for $7 to $11 each. That year also marked the entry into Phoenix of the first telegraph line. Morris Goldwater was the first operator of this station, located in his father's store on the northwest corner of First and Jefferson streets. By 1875, there were 16 saloons, four dance halls, two monte banks and one faro table in Phoenix.

Sometime this week I'll be stopping by to visit with Ellie. It will be great to see her!