Flossi & Buck: Phoenix, AZ

The founding of Phoenix, Arizona, can be attributed to several key individuals and historical events:

Early Inhabitants

Hohokam People: Long before European settlers arrived, the Hohokam people inhabited the now Phoenix area. They constructed extensive irrigation canals, some still in use today, laying the groundwork for future agricultural development.

Modern Founding

Jack Swilling: A Confederate veteran, Jack Swilling, is often credited with the founding of modern Phoenix. In 1867, while travelling through the Salt River Valley, Swilling recognised the potential for farming in the area if the ancient Hohokam canals could be re-excavated and used for irrigation.

In 1868, Swilling formed the Swilling Irrigation and Canal Company, which beganf constructing canals to bring water from the Salt River to the surrounding land.

The establishment of the canal system led to the formation of a small farming community. This community eventually grew and became known as Phoenix.

Darryl Duppa: The name "Phoenix" was suggested by Darryl Duppa, an educated Englishman who saw the new settlement as a city rising from the ruins of the ancient Hohokam civilisation, much like the mythical Phoenix bird rises from its ashes.

Official Recognition: Phoenix was officially recognised and incorporated as a town on May 4, 1868. It became the territorial capital in 1889 and was later designated as the state capital when Arizona achieved statehood in 1912.