Tucson, AZ, is a beautiful, historical, multi-cultural landmark. And most of Tucson residents don’t realize that it began to civilize around August 1775 when Lt. Colonel Don Hugo O’Connor and Lt. Juan De Carmona ( Royal Spanish Army) and his soldiers helped establish what was called (and still is) San Presidio Agustin. This was originally a military settlement, hence the name Presidio, and was approximately 11 acres of enclosed space. Tucson was the largest of the frontier Presidios; everything they constructed still lies in and is present-day downtown Tucson, and it is now a museum. “Today, the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum opens a new window offering visitors a recreation of life during the founding of Tucson.”- Pima County Library.
Although we have learned that the history of Tucson does not date back to just the establishment of San Presidio Agustin, it’s even said to be “Probably the longest inhabited community in North America,” according to Hartmann-Gordon of Kgun 9 News. With the help of Rio Nuevo and the Tucson Presidio Trust, the north-east corner was reconstructed around 2007. They had archaeologists come in to excavate, and we are now able to visit and get some insight into what life was like for the families and soldiers in San Presidio Agustin.
To honor over 4000 years of history and culture, there will be many activities to commemorate the beautiful history of Tucson. The Arizona History Museum is hosting an open house on Saturday, Aug. 23rd, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., celebrating over 250 years of history. And on Friday night, 7:00-10:00 pm, Hotel Congress in downtown Tucson will be celebrating, featuring live music from Santa Pachita and Mariachi Amapola, San Diego’s female mariachi band! On Wednesday, there is going to be an unveiling of the 1975 bicentennial time capsule! It was buried on December 11th and contains important artifacts and memorabilia. Starting next weekend, Tucson and its residents will be celebrating this huge milestone. Don’t miss out on the knowledge, culture, and heritage to be celebrated!
