History
A 1694 journal entry by Father Eusebio Francisco Kino records a description of
what would become Maricopa Wells.
He noted an established agricultural
community populated by friendly Native
Americans who were established traders.
In the Mid-1800’s, when everything south
of the Gila River was still part of Mexico,
Maricopa Wells was a dependable source
of water along the Gila Trail. It became
an important and famous stage stop for
the Butter? eld Overland Mail Line that
stretched from St. Louis to San Francisco.
Th e 1870’s brought the railroad south of the
wells and the ever-adaptable people of the
area moved to meet the needs of progress.
Phoenix was little more than a tiny village
on the Salt River but growing political
in? uence led to the building of a spur
line from Maricopa to Phoenix. Today’s
Maricopa Road (John Wayne Parkway) lies
over the top of that old rail line.
In 1935, Maricopa settled into a slower
pace as rail tra? c north was halted.
Although agricultural production had
been consistent through time, it became
the catalyst when the rail service was cut.
Increased mechanization of agriculture
slowed the ? ow of people. However, it
created a hearty farm economy that thrives
today.
Farms and pecan groves have given way
to new rooftops, paved roads and endless
opportunities for residents. In response to
unprecedented hypergrowth, the residents
of Arizona’s 88th city voted to adopt its ? rst
Municipal General Plan that would ensure
Maricopa achieves its vision through the
year 2025.
In order to honor the past while moving
into the future of rapid growth, the City
developed a new vision that represents the
present and future: Th e City of Maricopa
is a family-oriented, vibrant community
for residents and businesses seeking careful
growth, environmental awareness, and a
high quality of life.
Maricopa at a Glance
Maricopa o? ers residents and
businesses the experience of a
small-town, rural atmosphere that is
within a short distance to two major
metropolitan areas.
Th e City of Maricopa is
approximately 59 square miles
Th e average household income
in the City of Maricopa is $75,000;
this is among the highest in the state
of Arizona.
Approximately 61 percent of City
residents hold a bachelors degree or
graduate degree.
Th e City currently has approximately
350 businesses
and 23 restaurants.
Annual Events: Founder’s Day,
Salsa Festival, Holiday Homes on
Parade, Stagecoach Days, Parent-
Child Fishing Derby, Great American
Barbecue