Gilbert Arizona

Gilbert Arizona Overview

In the early 1900’s, what would be called the Arizona Eastern Railway asked for donations of right of way. The rail line wanted to connect Phoenix and Florence. As the line would pass through property owned by William “Bobby” Gilbert, a siding added on his property was named after him. The siding, and the town that grew up around it, was aptly and ultimately named Gilbert Arizona.

The Early Years

Just as the area around it, Gilbert was fast becoming a well known farming community. Farming in the Gilbert was vastly improved by the building of the Roosevelt Dam and the Canals that followed in 1911. The first store in Gilbert, opened in 1910  (Ayer’s Grocery) and was also the first post office established in the following year.

In 1912, Mormons were fleeing their  Mexican colonies due to the dangers created by Pancho Villa. Many of the Mormon refugees settled in Gilbert. By 1915 church services were being held at the local Elementary School. In 1918 the church officially became the Gilbert Ward.

The area remained agriculture dominated for many years. Until the late 20’s Gilbert was known as the “Hay Capital of the World”.

Modern Day Gilbert

Gilbert’s change started during the 1970s because when the Town Government okayed a land annexation of 53 square miles of land from the county. At that time the population was just under 2000 residents. Farsighted city councilmen realized that Gilbert Arizona was poised to develop an expand just as their neighbors Tempe, Chandler and Mesa had. As a result, Gilbert was set for extensive growth during the 1980s and into the present.

In 2019, the city was recognized nationally for safety, livability and family life. It was named 4th safest, 12th for livability, and  seventh best place to live in US..

According to the 2000 Census, the city covered an area of about 40 square miles. By 2009, this area had grown to over 75 square miles.

Modern day Gilbert is a beautiful city and it still offers a small town feel while boasting 250,000 residents. The older downtown historic building remain and are very popular. Every modern convenience is either in the city limits or very near. Freeway access surrounds the area, making travel easy. Great shopping and dining is everywhere you go in Gilbert.

Conclusion

Gilbert Arizona is great place to live. If you want to find your next home here, contact Penney for the best of the valley!