Scottsdale, Arizona, often known for its luxurious resorts, vibrant arts scene, and desert beauty, has a rich history rooted in the vision of its founder, Winfield Scott. This post delves into the origins of Scottsdale, exploring how a former Army chaplain transformed a barren stretch of desert into one of Arizona’s most iconic cities.
A Visionary Leader: Winfield Scott’s Early Life Winfield Scott was born on February 26, 1837, in Chittenango, New York. He grew up in a farming family, which later influenced his endeavors in the agricultural development of Scottsdale. After completing his education, Scott pursued a career in ministry, becoming an ordained minister and later serving as a chaplain in the Union Army during the Civil War. His experiences in the military and his deep religious faith shaped his leadership style and his commitment to community building.
The Journey to Arizona After the Civil War, Scott sought new opportunities in the West. He served in various posts across the country before being drawn to Arizona by its warm climate and potential for agricultural development. In 1888, Scott and his wife, Helen, traveled to the Salt River Valley, where they saw an opportunity to create a thriving community in the desert. Despite the challenges of the harsh environment, Scott believed that with the right irrigation systems, the land could be made fertile.
The Purchase of Land and Founding of Orangedale With a vision in mind, Scott purchased 640 acres of land for $3.50 per acre, a significant investment at the time. He chose this location due to its proximity to the Arizona Canal, a crucial source of water for irrigation. Scott’s initial plan was to establish a citrus farming community, which led to the area being named Orangedale. However, the name was eventually changed to Scottsdale in honor of its founder.
Building a Community from the Ground Up Scott quickly got to work, using his knowledge of irrigation and agriculture to transform the arid desert into fertile farmland. He built a canal system that allowed for the irrigation of crops, which became the backbone of the local economy. Scott’s efforts attracted other settlers, who were drawn by the promise of fertile land and the opportunity to build a new life in the West.
One of Scott’s first major projects was the construction of the town’s first school. Education was a priority for Scott, who believed that a strong community needed an educated populace. The school also served as a gathering place for the early settlers, helping to foster a sense of community. Scott also oversaw the construction of the town’s first church, another essential element in building a cohesive community.
The Importance of the Arizona Canal The Arizona Canal, which runs through what is now Scottsdale, was one of the most critical infrastructure projects in the region’s history. Originally constructed by the Hohokam people over a thousand years ago, the canal system was revitalized in the late 19th century by settlers like Scott. The canal allowed for the irrigation of vast stretches of land, transforming the Salt River Valley into a lush agricultural area.
The success of Scottsdale’s early agriculture was largely due to the effective use of this canal system. The fertile land produced citrus fruits, vegetables, and other crops, which were sold in nearby towns and cities. This agricultural boom helped to put Scottsdale on the map, attracting more settlers and laying the groundwork for the town’s future growth.
Challenges and Triumphs Building a community in the desert was no easy feat. The early settlers faced numerous challenges, including extreme heat, limited water supply, and isolation from other established communities. However, Scott’s leadership and perseverance kept the community focused on their goal. He worked closely with other settlers to solve problems, such as finding new water sources and improving irrigation techniques. Scott’s ability to lead by example and his willingness to get his hands dirty earned him the respect and loyalty of the community.
Despite the hardships, Scottsdale continued to grow. The town’s success attracted more settlers, and by the turn of the century, Scottsdale had become a bustling agricultural community. The town’s growth was further spurred by the arrival of the railroad, which provided a direct link to markets in other parts of the country.
Scottsdale’s Transition to a Modern Town As Scottsdale grew, so did its reputation as a desirable place to live. The early 20th century saw the town begin to transition from a purely agricultural community to a more diverse economy. This was in part due to the increasing number of winter visitors, known as “snowbirds,” who were drawn to Scottsdale’s warm climate and beautiful scenery.
The town’s leadership recognized the potential for tourism and began to develop amenities to attract visitors. Hotels, restaurants, and shops began to spring up, catering to the needs of the growing tourist population. This period also saw the development of Western-themed attractions, which capitalized on the town’s frontier heritage and appealed to visitors looking for an authentic Western experience.
The Legacy of Winfield Scott Winfield Scott’s vision and leadership were instrumental in the founding and early development of Scottsdale. His commitment to creating a strong, self-sustaining community laid the foundation for the town’s future growth. Scott’s legacy can still be seen in Scottsdale today, from the preserved historic buildings in Old Town to the town’s continued emphasis on community and education.
Scott passed away in 1910, but his influence on Scottsdale endures. The town’s rapid growth in the 20th century would not have been possible without the groundwork laid by Scott and the early settlers. Today, Scottsdale is a vibrant city that honors its past while continuing to look toward the future.
The story of Scottsdale is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and community. From its humble beginnings as a small farming settlement, Scottsdale has grown into one of Arizona’s most important cities. Winfield Scott’s legacy lives on in the town he founded, and his contributions continue to be celebrated by residents and visitors alike.
Scottsdale’s history is rich with stories of perseverance and triumph. It’s a town that has always embraced change while staying true to its roots. As Scottsdale continues to grow and evolve, it does so on the strong foundation laid by its founder, Winfield Scott.
