Santa Cruz County Info Begins on Page 85

Picture yourself strolling among tall cottonwood trees along the banks of a gently flowing river, where you are surrounded by lush greenery all year long, and the air is filled with the soothing melody of an abundance of birds singing happily.  Look, across the meadow – do you think you caught a glimpse of a Spanish Conquistador?  If you can believe that this tranquil setting is in Southern Arizona, then the chances are more likely than you think.

Discovered by Spanish missionaries in the early 1500’s, the area was established as an early outpost for exploration, and later gained popularity for its rich mining, ranching and agricultural resources.  In 1773, Captain Juan Bautista de Anza received permission from the Viceroy of Spain to find an overland route to northern California.  Between January of 1774 and March of 1776, de Anza made two such journeys to the Presidio of Monterey and Mission Dolores in San Francisco.  His route took him along the Santa Cruz River through the heart of what is today Santa Cruz County.  Today, many outdoor enthusiasts have taken to retracing the footsteps of history along the de Anza Trail, a popular link between Tubac and Nogales, past the historic Tumacacori mission and through the heart of Rio Rico.

When considering what home to buy, the community can be as important a consideration as the real estate itself. This section should help you learn more about our beautiful community and all it has to offer.