Timeline

Lieutenant Edward Fitzgerald Beale was commissioned to survey the 35th Parallel for a wagon road, leading to the creation of the Beale Wagon Road. This route became a vital path for westward expansion.

Antoine Leroux served as a guide for government expeditions along the 35th Parallel, aiding in the exploration and mapping of the region.

Gold was discovered around Prescott, prompting the construction of a road from the Beale Wagon Road to Prescott to connect the mines to the cross-country route. The Overland Road began near the field behind what is now Mount Elden Middle School (MEMS) at Cedar Avenue and Fourth Street, stretching towards the Flagstaff Medical Center area […]

New Mexican families migrated to Flagstaff to herd sheep and work on the railroad, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.

Thomas F. McMillan constructed the first permanent housing at the base of Mars Hill, marking the beginnings of settled life in the region.

The Atlantic and Pacific Railroad was built, significantly impacting the development and economy of Flagstaff and La Plaza Vieja.

Railroad surveyors established a camp at the base of Mars Hill near the spring to supply the railroad with necessary water. The 1880 census recorded 67 people and 27 households in the area. Yavapai County established a voting precinct at “Flag Staff,” recognizing the growing community.

The railroad built a depot half a mile east of the spring, leading to the development of “New Town” near the depot. Businesses, including a stone building by the Brannen family, sprang up around the depot. Old Town (La Plaza Vieja) and New Town existed as independent towns.

The Flagstaff Brewery was built and operated until 1892, contributing to the local economy.

A significant fire burned down all of Old Town (La Plaza Vieja). Commercial development shifted to New Town, which became the new commercial center—now downtown Flagstaff.

Old Man Rumsey built a cabin near La Plaza Vieja Spring and attempted to claim it by fencing off the spring.

Another devastating fire burned down New Town, leading to rebuilding efforts.

Old Town (La Plaza Vieja) faced yet another fire while New Town was being rebuilt.

New Town was rebuilt, with many homes constructed on what is now Cherry Avenue. The community transitioned from a transient population to more permanent residents.

Due to repeated fires, stone became the preferred building material for its durability and fire resistance.

Coconino County was formed from a portion of Yavapai County, with Flagstaff as the county seat.

Flagstaff was officially incorporated as a town, solidifying its status as a growing community.

La Plaza Vieja transitioned from a commercial center to a primarily Mexican residential neighborhood, reflecting demographic changes.

Juan and Rosa Valdivia built their family home at 802 West Clay Avenue, contributing to the residential development.

There was a significant migration of Mexican people to Flagstaff, enriching the cultural fabric of La Plaza Vieja.

The Castillo family built their home at 415 West Tucson Avenue. The Baca family constructed their residence at 504 West Tucson Avenue.

The 1920 Census indicated that 30% of Flagstaff’s population was Mexican. Nearly all Mexican families resided in La Plaza Vieja or the Southside neighborhood.

The Armory was built at 503 West Clay Avenue with $50,000 from state funds and donations by prominent locals like M.I. Powers, Thomas E. Pollock, Charles J. Babbitt, and the Riordan family. It was the first armory in the state and is currently the site of Natural Grocers.

Community members began building the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church after facing discrimination at another Catholic church. The church became a central place of worship and community gathering for Mexican residents.

The first mass was held in the newly built Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, marking a significant cultural and spiritual milestone.

Many Mexican families lived in Los Chantes (shanties or shacks) due to economic hardships. A number of residents returned to Mexico during the Great Depression.

A 25% population increase over ten years led to housing shortages and challenging living conditions in La Plaza Vieja and other neighborhoods.

The Our Lady of Guadalupe Church was officially established as a parish, strengthening its role in the community.

The Saginaw Sawmill near La Plaza Vieja closed, affecting local employment and the economy.

The Our Lady of Guadalupe School opened, providing education rooted in the community’s cultural and religious values.

The Our Lady of Guadalupe Church was declared a shrine of the Diocese of Phoenix, acknowledging its historical and spiritual significance.

The church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

The La Plaza Vieja Neighborhood Plan was published by the City of Flagstaff, outlining strategies for preserving the neighborhood’s character while promoting sustainable development.