Most People Have No Idea Just How Unique This Village In Arizona Truly Is
By Katie Lawrence|Published November 30, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
We have quite a few villages in Arizona, but many are either abandoned or still inhabited by the same families who settled them. Laveen, located within the city limits of Phoenix, is considered an “urban village” and retains its rural roots while continuing to urbanize and prosper. This juxtaposition is a truly unique phenomenon that sets the community apart from any other place in Arizona.
In 1884, dairymen and alfalfa farmers settled Laveen. Despite being so close to Phoenix, it was a kingdom of isolation until 1911 due to the Salt River carrying water year-round.
The village was forced to become self-sufficient, establishing two general stores, a barber shop, repair garage, two pool halls, and several other businesses. Pictured above is the post office, which has remained at its original location since its construction in 1918.
Many of the buildings, such as this school auditorium, have earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. They serve as a stark contrast to the rapidly urbanizing city, reminding locals and visitors alike of Laveen's rural beginnings.
Del Monte Market is considered the oldest currently-operating grocery store in Arizona. Sitting on the corner of 27th Ave. and Dobbins Rd., it dates back to 1908.
Today, Laveen is rife with recreational activities. Cesar Chavez Park boasts a large lake for urban fishing and one of the country's top municipal golf courses.
While you won’t find many restaurants in the village itself, T-Bone Steakhouse still feels a ways away from Phoenix proper. Serving good old-fashioned cowboy chow with rustic surroundings, its small-town feel makes visitors forget they're just minutes away from a bustling metropolis.
Aside from the delicious food, the steakhouse offers unparalleled views that are worth a visit on their own. Arizona sunsets never disappoint, and you won't find many better places for a watch them.
Have you ever visited Laveen? Are there any other villages in Arizona that deserve to be featured? This ancient settlement is one of our favorite places to visit.
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