Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Early Phoenix by Kathleen Garcia

League members were treated to a presentation of photos by Kathleen Garcia from her book Early Phoenix. As photos of buildings were displayed, Kathleen talked about their locations and what was now located in their place. Sadly, too many wonderfully-constructed houses have been knocked down in the name of progress.

Most amazing fact to me? Jack Swilling, who came to AZ following the Civil War, saw the potential in the ancient Hohokam canals that ran through th
e Valley. He raised $10,000 in 1867 and organized a company to bring water to the desert. Wow. How much would that be in today's dollars?

Kathleen had her book for sale and donated $5 of every purchase to the League. She is on the right in the picture with Programs Chair Kathleen Fischer.