History, Arts, and Culture of the Southwest Valley
In anticipation of the big changes coming soon with our new location, the Litchfield Park Historical Society is rebranding to reflect its broader focus and is now known as the P.W. Litchfield Heritage Center. Located on the corner of Camelback and Litchfield Roads, the current museum is preparing to expand and transition to the new Heritage Center. It will be located in the re-purposed historic winter home of Paul and Florence Litchfield, which was once part of the Litchfield estate known as Rancho La Loma. Here we will focus on the unique story of the Southwest Valley and the people who were instrumental in the creation of the communities that would become Avondale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, and Tolleson. Join us in this exciting endeavor by becoming a member of the P.W. Litchfield Heritage Center!
Join us as historian Royal “John” Medley discusses the history of Arizona’s produce industry through its colorful “crate label” art. Mr. Medley has accumulated an extensive agricultural archive of some of the best commercial art of the early to late 20th Century. A member of the board of directors of the Oracle Historical Society, he has published articles in the Journal of Arizona History and presented at the annual Arizona History Convention.
His collections illustrate the history of Arizona agriculture which began to blossom over 100 years ago as the state’s fresh produce was distributed across the nation. Shipped in ice-chilled railcars, fruits and vegetables were packed in wooden crates with eye-catching labels, which drew upon the history, imagery, and myths of the Southwest. This combination of agriculture and art has created a legacy of beloved vintage produce label ephemera.
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Supporting Opportunities
We rely on the support and generosity of our community to preserve the history, arts and culture of the Southwest Valley. Learn more about our Sponsors and how you can be a vital partner in the P.W. Litchfield Heritage Center and MUSEUM on our Partners Page.
Join our partners: Sun Health Communities, Veincare of Arizona, Océano Rentals in Rocky Point, Origins Bed & Breakfast in Cottonwood, Wigwam Arizona Resort, Financial Advisor Mary Cavanaugh-Marsh, Attorney at Law Paul J. Faith, Esq. – Faith, Ledyard, & Faith PLC, dba: FAITHLAW, Realtor Erica Zuniga, and Peter Mahoney of Park Café, Old Pueblo Café and Papa Paul’s.