Buckeye
Arizona
City of Buckeye
In 1877, the founder of the settlement that was to become the Town of Buckeye led a party of six men, three women and ten children, from Creston Iowa, bound for Arizona. The leader of this party was Thomas Newt Clanton whose purpose for coming west was to foster good health. It was a good move for him - he lived in Arizona for 49 years before his death at the age of 82.
Development in the Buckeye Valley received its first great boost with the construction of the Buckeye Canal. In 1884, Malin M. Jackson named the canal in honor of his native state of Ohio, the Buckeye State. Clanton built ten miles of the canal, which was completed in 1886.
In 1887, Clanton and his family moved to Buckeye, becoming the first permanent Anglo residents. Clanton and Jackson envisioned a need for a town site near the center of the Buckeye Valley, so in 1888 the two, along with William "Bucky" O'Neil, who later became known as a famous Rough Rider, laid out the town site on a portion of the Clanton Homestead.
The first post office in the area was established the same year. Also in 1888, Bucky O'Neil and associates organized the Buckeye Irrigation Company and had it certified by the Territorial Secretary. Jackson named the town Sidney, after his home in Ohio. However because of the significance of the canal, over time the town became known as Buckeye, and the name was legally changed in 1910.
Advances in transportation put Buckeye on the map. In 1910, the Arizona Eastern Railroad came to Buckeye; the first car in 1911; a steam rail line connected it to Phoenix by 1912; and a state highway by 1915. The coming of the railroad was so significant that the business district was moved to accommodate the location of the railroad station. As a result, Buckeye was booming. By 1912, major buildings were constructed, along with expansion of the business community.
Buckeye was incorporated in 1926 and included 440 acres. The first mayor was Hugh M. Watson. Watson started the Buckeye Valley Bank. His son, Hugh Watson, Jr. served as mayor from 1956 to 1958.
In 1935, the Buckeye Chamber of Commerce started the Helzapoppin Days, which became a local tradition. The festivities included street dances, parade, carnival, and a rodeo. Proceeds were given to local churches that distributed the funds to the needy and for scholarships. Celebrities such as cowboy singing star Gene Autry attended the events. Similar local holidays, such as the annual Pioneer Days, are still celebrated in Buckeye today.
Recent News
City of Buckeye Parks And Receation Newsletter - December 29, 2023
Be A VIP for Buckeye Air Fair Become a Buckeye Air Fair VIP! We're flying even higher this year with a first class experience and brand new airshows on February 17 - 18, 2024. This year's high energy airshow is even more action packed with new…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks And Receation Newsletter - December 15, 2023
Buckeye Marathon 10th Anniversary The Buckeye Race to the Runway is back and celebrating it's 10 year anniversary! Join us on Janurary 6th for a full, Boston Marathon qualifying marathon distance, half marathon, 10K, 5K and 1 mile fun run.…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks And Receation Newsletter - December 1, 2023
Recreation Registration Page We're updating our look! The registration page for Buckeye recreation programs and classes is getting an update, which should lead to an easier registration process. Please be advised that some classes or programs…
Read More »City of Buckeye Your Parks And Receation Newsletter November 3, 2023
The 83rd Annual Halloween Carnival Survey The 83rd Annual Buckeye Halloween Carnival was a huge success and we want to hear from you! From carnival games, costume contest, bingo, cake walk, Touch-A-Truck and more, there was fun for the…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - October 6, 2023
The 83rd Annual Halloween Carnival Gather your loved ones for a spook-tacular family night out at the 83rd Annual Buckeye Halloween Carnival! Join in on the fun as local non-profits host thrilling carnival games, all in support of their incredible…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - September, 2023
Sundance Park Phase 2 Grand Opening The Sundance Park Phase 2 Grand Opening event is just 1 week away! The Grand Opening ribbon cutting ceremony takes place at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, September 15, overlooking the lake. Stick around for a Concert in…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - August 25, 2023
Sundance Park Phase 2 Grand Opening Sundance Park Phase Two is less than a month away! Join us for the Grand Opening celebration taking place September 15 - 17. There will be a weekend full of activities from a fishing derby, fireworks show,…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - August 11, 2023
Sundance Park Phase 2 Grand Opening Sundance Park Phase Two is almost open! Join us for the Grand Opening celebration taking place September 15 - 17. There will be a weekend full of activities from a fishing derby, fireworks show, Concert in the…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - July 14, 2023
Celebrate Parks & Recreation Month Calling all Buckeye residents! Join us for a Community Ice Cream Social at the ramada in Town Park next to the Aquatics Center on Thursday, July 20, from 5 - 7:30 p.m. Check out the newest playground in…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - June 16, 2023
Drowning Prevention Drill If you spotted a helicopter at the Aquatic Center this past weekend, no need to worry folks! Buckeye Fire-Medical-Rescue conducted a drill to help lifeguards and first responders better serve the public in case of a…
Read More »City of Buckeye News - June 9, 2023
Introducing our Read Better Be Better program, a transformative initiative that pairs dedicated Teen Leaders with children who face reading challenges. Read with Us! Read Better Be Better is a reading buddy program designed for 2nd-4th grade…
Read More »Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - June 2, 2023
Independence Day Celebration Join us for the annual Independence Day Celebration taking place on July 4th at the Buckeye Municipal Airport, 3000 S. Palo Verde Rd. Bring a seat to watch Chad Freeman at 6:30 p.m. and enjoy food trucks, beverages,…
Read More »Buckeye Parks and Rec Newsletter - May 5, 2023
Summer Activities Summer is here are there are tons of activities happening throughout Buckeye in the Community Services department. Be sure to check out the Summer edition of the Eye on Buckeye featuring programs, classes and special events coming…
Read More »City of Buckeye to Participate in Downtown Buckeye’s Future
Buckeye is wrapping up the process to create a comprehensive plan that positions downtown Buckeye to attract private development interest and make it a desirable destination in the Valley. We’ve seen your vision and heard your comments on how…
Read More »Buckeye Parks and Rec Newsletter - March 10, 2023
Hop into Spring The annual Spring Celebration is almost here and bringing back the fun and excitement of the spring season. Join us on April 1st from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sundance Park (22865 W. Lower Buckeye Rd.) for egg decorating, bounce houses,…
Read More »City of Buckeye News - March 3, 2023
This Week's Top News | March 3, 2023 Buckeye planning for water future Water has been a top headline in Buckeye since the Hassayampa Sub-Basin Report was released earlier this year. Buckeye continues to diversify its water portfolio and plan for…
Read More »City of Buckeye Valley Museum News February 27, 2023
Join us for Black Woman Rising: African American Community Mothers in Phoenix Thursday, March 2 1 - 2 p.m. Come listen to the AZ Humanities 2021 Outstanding Speaker of the Year, Akua Duku Anokye speak about the tremendous impact African American…
Read More »City of Buckeye Connects - February 2023
As you look to expand your business this year here is an idea to consider when looking to tackle your workforce development needs. I came across an article by Future of Workforce Trends in 2023 by Madhurima Dey. In the article they offer several…
Read More »City of Buckeye Weekly News - February 17, 2023
It's Buckeye Air Fair Weekend! Come on out to the Buckeye Municipal Airport this weekend and experience some high-flying fun, Feb. 17-19! More than 30,000 spectators make this Buckeye's biggest event of the year. Check out two incredible airshows,…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - February 17, 2023
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »City of Buckeye -Your Parks And Rec Newsletter February 10, 2023
Mark Your Calendars for the Buckeye Air Fair The largest event in Buckeye is right around the corner. The Buckeye Air Fair is back February 17-19 at the Buckeye Municipal Airport. Find out more about what is going on each day below and check out…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - February 10, 2023
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »City of Buckeye Valley Museum News February 3, 2023
Join us for Flying Through Arizona: The Story of the First National Women’s Air Race Saturday, February 11 10 - 11 a.m. In 1929, the first national Women's Air Race from Santa Monica, CA to Cleveland, OH passed through Arizona. Who were…
Read More »City of Buckeye News - February 3, 2023
Buckeye Air Fair Cleared For Takeoff Feb. 17-19 The Buckeye Air Fair returns for a weekend of high-flying fun, Feb. 17-19 at the Buckeye Municipal Airport, 3000 S. Palo Verde Road. This year’s event features 2.5-hour action packed…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - February 3, 2023
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - January 27, 2023
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing to…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks And Rec Newsletter - January 27, 2023
Spring Into Fun Keep your eyes peeled for the newest Eye on Buckeye featuring programs and activities from February through April! Find the digital version here. Our featured department, Senior Services, located at the Buckeye Senior Center is a…
Read More »City of Buckeye Connects - January 2023
BuckeyeConnects is a newsletter, created by the Economic Development Department, specifically geared to provide a variety of resources and information about Buckeye. We look forward to connecting with you Happy New Yea Happy new year from our…
Read More »City of Buckeye News - January 20, 2023
Cowboy Up for Buckeye Days Put on your cowboy boots and go back in time as Buckeye Days celebrates our Wild West history for three days of fun from Jan. 27 - 29 in Downtown Buckeye. This event features a Cattle Drive Parade, Dr. Buck’s…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - January 13, 2023
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks And Rec Newsletter - January 13, 2023
Start Your New Year's Goals Fitness in the Park is back with classes starting January 16, 2023. Classes are free Monday to Thursday. This popular eight-week program is for ages 18+ and all experience levels are welcome. Classes are led by…
Read More »City of Buckeye News - January 6, 2023
Downtown Plan Online Open House The online open house for the Downtown Buckeye planning project is now live! View initial ideas for downtown's revitalization and share your feedback by January 15 to make your voice heard. Access the open house…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - January 6, 2023
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »City of Buckeye Valley Museum News January 3, 2023
Join us for Specters of the Past - Ghost Towns that Built Arizona Thursday, January 19 10 - 11 a.m. An entertaining, visual display of the communities, towns and settlements that contributed to the early growth of the state. This presentation also…
Read More »City of Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - December 30, 2022
City of Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - December 30, 2022 Run the Race, Get the Swag Start 2023 off with a bang and join us for the 9th annual Buckeye Marathon featuring the Boston Qualifier Marathon race, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and…
Read More »City of Buckeye News - December 23, 2022
This Week's Top News | Dec. 23, 2022 Christmas and New Year's Holiday Closures In observance of the Christmas holiday, all city offices and facilities will be closed on Monday, Dec. 26, 2022. Regular business hours will resume at 8 a.m. on…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - December 23, 2022
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing to…
Read More »City of Buckeye Connects - December 21, 2022 Issue
Attraction is Key In today’s multi-generational workforce, attraction is a key aspect of engaging job-seekers. As your organization heads into the new year, I would like to encourage you to consider adapting new and creative ways to attract…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Downtown Buckeye Online Open House
Downtown Specific Area Plan Online Open House Buckeye is in the midst of a planning process to create a new, comprehensive Downtown Specific Area Plan (DSAP). As part of that process, the city is holding an online public open house. The public can…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - December 16, 2022
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - December 16, 2022
Give the Gift of the VIP Experience The Buckeye Air Fair returns February 17-19, 2023 and you can experience it like a VIP! The VIP treatment includes up close seating for the airshow inside the VIP tent, all day refreshments, private restrooms…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - December 9, 2022
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »City Of Buckeye : Downtown Specific Area Plan Open House
Join us as we discuss Downtown Buckeye’s future at an upcoming open house meeting! Buckeye is in the process of creating a new, comprehensive Downtown Specific Area Plan. This plan will work to attract private development interest and guide…
Read More »City Of Buckeye News - December 9, 2022
Discuss the future of Downtown Buckeye Be a part of Downtown Buckeye's future! Join us for an open house to discuss Downtown Buckeye, view initial concepts and provide your input. It's all part of the process of creating a new, comprehensive…
Read More »Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - December 2, 2022
It's the Most Wonderful Season of All We had so much fun at the Buckeye Tree Lighting Ceremony, and we want to know if you did too! Tell us your thoughts with our survey and check out the fantastic photos from this years event. Don't forget that…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - December 3, 2022
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - November 25, 2022
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »City of Buckeye Newsletter - November 23, 2022
Thanksgiving Holiday Closures Happy Thanksgiving from the city of Buckeye! As a reminder, all city offices and libraries will be closed for Thanksgiving weekend with regular business hours resuming at 7 a.m. on Nov. 28. Trash and recycling…
Read More »City Of Buckeye News - November 23, 2022
Come support the Buckeye Public Library at the Friends of the Library Holiday Book Sale! There will be 20,000+ items including: - Books - CDs - DVDs - and puzzles Can't make it Thursday, December 1st or Friday December 2nd? That's ok! Saturday…
Read More »Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - November 18, 2022
Join Us to Light Up the Night The Annual Buckeye Tree Lighting Ceremony is taking place at the 6th Street Plaza on Monroe Ave. in Downtown Buckeye on Saturday, Nov. 26 from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. Watch performances, listen to holiday stories, decorate…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - November 18, 2022
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »City of Buckeye Connects - November Issue
Workforce News Reconstruction As this year comes to an end, companies like yourself are already planning their workforce needs for the coming year. As you plan, it may be time to consider construction or re-construction of your paths in your…
Read More »City of Buckeye - Mayor Orsborn's Jobs Initiative - November 11, 2022
Message from the Mayor As the fastest growing city in the country, Buckeye is constantly looking to welcome new businesses and jobs to our area. As our population and highly qualified workforce continues to grow, Buckeye only looks more appealing…
Read More »City Of Buckeye News - November 10, 2022
Dog Days of Buckeye Is Back The eighth annual Dog Days of Buckeye returns to Sundance Park this Saturday, November 12 from 9 a.m. to Noon. This free, family friendly, four-legged event is like bringing your dog to a canine amusement park. You…
Read More »Buckeye Parks and Recreation Newsletter - November 4, 2022
We Had a Scary Good Time! We hope you were able to join us for an evening of scares and fun. With over 60 booths at this year's Buckeye Halloween Carnival including games, food, Bingo, Cake Walk and Trunk-Or-Treat, there was lots of fun to be had! …
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