The History of Buckeye, Arizona

The History of Buckeye, Arizona 

Buckeye, Arizona, located in Maricopa County, is a city with a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. The area was first inhabited by the Hohokam culture, known for their advanced irrigation systems. 

Founding and Early Development 

In 1877, Thomas Newt Clanton led a group of settlers from Creston, Iowa, to Arizona, where they established the Buckeye area. One of the early settlers, Malie M. Jackson, developed the Buckeye Canal between 1884 and 1886, naming it after his home state of Ohio, known as "The Buckeye State". The town was initially named "Sidney" after Jackson's hometown in Ohio, but due to the significance of the canal, it became known as Buckeye and was officially renamed in 1910. 

Incorporation and Growth 

Buckeye was incorporated in 1929, covering 440 acres at the time. The town's first mayor, Hugh M. Watson, founded the Buckeye Valley Bank, and Watson Road remains a central commercial area in the city. Advances in transportation, including the arrival of the Arizona Eastern Railroad in 1910 and the establishment of a state highway by 1915, significantly boosted Buckeye's growth. 

Modern Development 

Buckeye has seen rapid growth in recent years, becoming one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 91,502, up from 50,876 in 2010. The city continues to expand, with new developments and a thriving community. 

Demographic Data 

According to the 2020 census, Buckeye's population is diverse and growing: 

• Population: 91,502 

• Age Distribution: 

• Under 5 years: 8.1% 

• Under 18 years: 27.3% 

• 65 years and over: 13.5% 

• Gender: 47.6% female. 52.4% male. 

• Race and Ethnicity: 

• White alone: 60.2% 

• Black or African American alone: 6.9% 

• American Indian and Alaska Native alone: 1.7% 

• Asian alone: 1.6% 

• Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone: 0.1% 

• Two or More Races: 15.0% 

• Hispanic or Latino: 43.0% 

• White alone, not Hispanic or Latino: 44.5%  

Master Planned Communities 

Buckeye is home to several master planned communities that offer a range of amenities and housing options: 

• Teravalis: Formerly known as Douglas Ranch, Teravalis is a massive 37,000-acre mixed-use master planned community in Northwest Buckeye. It is projected to include 100,000 homes and 55 million square feet of commercial development. Teravalis emphasizes sustainability and conservation, integrating open public spaces and enhancing the natural environment. 

• Sundance: This community offers a variety of housing options, parks, and recreational facilities. It is designed to cater to families and individuals looking for a vibrant and active lifestyle. 

• Verrado: Known for its charming small-town feel, Verrado features tree-lined streets, parks, and a downtown area with shops and restaurants. It offers a mix of residential options and community amenities.  

• Festival Ranch: This community is designed for active adults, featuring golf courses, fitness centers, and social clubs. It provides a resort-style living experience with numerous recreational activities.  

Cultural Highlights 

Buckeye is known for its annual Helzapoppin Days, a local tradition that started in 1935. The festivities include street dances, parades, carnivals, and rodeos, with proceeds benefiting local churches and scholarships. This event reflects the community spirit and vibrant culture of Buckeye. You can find information on current city of Buckeye events at https://www.buckeyeaz.gov/community/residents/events-in-buckeye/event-calendar.