Fort Lowell was a supply base for the United States Army “Apache Campaigns” between 1873 and 1891. Following abandonment of the fort in 1891, settlers moved in and used some fort buildings as residences, or stripped the buildings of useful materials. By the 1930s, much of the fort had fallen into disrepair or had been sold off. Eventually, the City of Tucson acquired a large portion of the old fort which became what is today’s “Fort Lowell Park.” A 5.2 acre (“Adkins”) parcel of the former fort containing several original adobe buildings was still in private ownership, and the 2004 County bond election passed a proposal to acquire the land and preserve the historic resources.
Arizona State Parks' mission is to preserve Arizona’s most precious resources while producing revenues for the State from more than two million annual guests. Visitors from all over the world enjoy Arizona State Parks’ 30 natural and cultural sites.
Letter from Carl Hayden to W. W. Bass asking his opinion on the proposed boundaries of the National Park. GC National Park written on the letter in red pencil.
Letter from Carl Hayden to W. W. Bass asking his opinion on the proposed boundaries of the National Park. GC Natl Park written on the letter in blue pencil.
Letter from W. W. Bass to Carl Hayden stating his vehement opposition to the National Park bill. Bass's concerns include a monopoly by the Santa Fe Railway and a clash between the Native Americans and the Department of the Interior.
Letter from W. W. Bass to Carl Hayden written on Bass Camps and Trails stationary. Bass urges Hayden to consider the implications to his farming and mining rights if the bill is passed.
Letter from François E. Mathes to Carl T. Hayden about maps of the Grand Canyon.
Arizona State Parks must prepare a Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan every five years. This report is for 2003 through 2008. The primary purpose of this plan is to establish priorities for acquiring land and developing outdoor recreation facilities in Arizona.