Javelina Desert Forest Estates
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| Florence is the seat of Pinal County. Colonel Levi Ruggles, an Indian agent, staked and platted the town in 1866. Sources cite different origins for the town's name, but all agree it was someone's sister or daughter. By the 1920s, the area had become the agricultural center of the county. The Florence business district is still on Main Street and, aside from obvious improvements, downtown remains much as it must have been in the 1880’s. Both visitors and residences appreciate the community's diversity which offers the convenience and lifestyle in a small western community, yet is only 45 minutes southeast from the Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas.
Florence is home to both the Pinal County government complex and the Arizona State Prison. Agricultural products from the area include cotton, cattle, grain and grapes. In January, 1987, Florence was selected for inclusion in "The Main Street Program" sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This public/private partnership program helps communities revitalize their central business districts. Florence’s year-round sunshine, warm climate and clean desert air makes it very popular for retirees.
Florence is the fifth-oldest town in Arizona and downtown Florence has been designated as an official “Historic District". Among buildings listed on the National Register are the first and second county courthouses. The first was built in 1877 and is open to the public as MacFarland State Park. The second courthouse, built in 1891, is still in use. The fully restored 1889 Brunenkant Building serves as the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce. Pinal Pioneer Parkway, a portion of State Route 79 to the south of Florence, contains a natural garden where virtually all species of Arizona desert flora are displayed and identified. The Tom Mix Monument, on the site where the popular movie cowboy died in a 1940 car crash, is located on the parkway as well. Florence is home to the nation's oldest Junior Rodeo, held every Thanksgiving weekend.
*Information from the City of Florence
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