Monday, March 2, 2015

Lunch at Wigwam with history of Litchfield Park

Lots of history in the west valley at the Wigwam Resort and Litchfield Park. Judy Cook, a volunteer for the Litchfield Park Historical Museum, told us of the search to find a place to grow Pima cotton for Goodyear rubber tires during WWI. Paul Litchfield realized Arizona was a good location and that was the beginning of the town with Goodyear executives staying at The Wigwam. It closed to the public during WWII to become housing for the pilots stationed at the brand new Luke Air Force Base. After the War, the rich and famous enjoyed the Resort including Billy Joel, Gerald Ford, Mickey Mantle, Gary Cooper and Shirley Booth. Arnold Palmer attended the nightly cookouts and horseback riding. Historic photos line the walls making it a walk through time.

We listened to Judy Cook speak while dining in one of the private rooms at the Wigwam. Thanks again to Lindy Isacksen and Linda Fritsch for coordinating a beautiful event.


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