Chandler intends to archive old photos of buildings

Each and every city, in any part of the world, has its own exclusive history and also beginning. The developments take place gradually owing to the sacrifices and devotions of many and not in a meteoric speed in any way. However, in spite of all these, it is often found that the existing generation tries to disregard or take no notice of the past and that saddens one most. But there are exceptions still and it stimulates the city. The same vigor can be found in Chandler these days.

Chandler is a city in Maricopa County, Arizona, and is a prominent suburb of the Phoenix Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). It is bordered to the north and west by Tempe, to the north by Mesa, to the west by Phoenix, to the south by the Gila River Indian Reservation, and to the east by Gilbert. The city had its beginning when in 1891, Dr. Alexander John Chandler, the first veterinary surgeon in Arizona Territory, settled on a ranch south of Mesa, studying irrigation engineering. By 1900, he had acquired 18,000 acres (73 km²) of land, and began drawing up plans for a townsite on what was then known as the Chandler Ranch.

This makes one reason out the presence of a number of old buildings in the city. There are, indeed, but many buildings are without any photos and that makes the situation more challenging. This intricate situation has made Chandler’s Museum Division beg for the public’s help in showing downtown visitors how things used to be. For that reason, if you are requested by the public-history coordinator Jean Reynolds regarding photos of historical downtown buildings anytime, don’t get nervous. Truly speaking, this is the best approach and should also be followed by every city.

Remember a building is not a mere structure but has its own history which is inseparable with the city. The collection of old photos of buildings and archiving them is also a way of expressing gratitude to the noble ancestors.

If you are in a position to donate or lend photos or other memorabilia, kindly contact Nate Meyers, curator of collections, at 480-782-2717.