Santa Cruz County, Arizona offers an eclectic blend of history, culture, art, recreation, shopping, cuisine and entertainment in a beautiful and relaxing setting.

The American Indians' ancestors were among the first people to set foot in the Americas 30,000 years ago. They have lived in the Sonoron Desert near the Gila River in what is now Southern Arizona for at least 2,000 years. Called the Pima Indians by exploring Spaniards who first encountered them in the 1600s, these early Americans called themselves "O'Odham," the River people, and those with whom they intermarried, "Tohono O'Odham," the Desert people.

Arizona’s past and present reflect a myriad of human cultures tied to the land. From ancient agrarians harvesting communal crops to present day ranching, farming and mining, this area of Arizona has provided an abundance of scenic and natural resources that have supported people whose “way of life” depends on those resources. The future quality of life and the natural beauty of Santa Cruz County will depend on the decisions made now, by all of us who choose to make our homes here.

Source: http://www.audubonresearchranch.org/PDFs/RuralLiving2009.pdf