40 Facts About Chandler’s

Chandler's Founding and Early History

Chandler, Arizona, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in the early 20th century. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about its beginnings and growth.

1. Chandler was founded by Dr. Alexander John Chandler, a Canadian veterinarian, in 1912. He acquired 18,000 acres of land and began planning a town-site on what was then known as the Chandler Ranch.

2. Chandler was officially incorporated on February 16, 1920. This happened after 186 residents petitioned the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors.

3. In 1960, Chandler's population was 9,531. Today, the city boasts over 250,000 residents, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.

4. During the Great Depression, Chandler's economy was sustained despite widespread challenges. However, the cotton crash in the 1930s significantly impacted the city's residents.

Agricultural Heritage

Chandler's early economy was deeply rooted in agriculture, which shaped much of its initial development and culture.

5. Chandler was known for its cotton production. The San Marcos Hotel, a major landmark, even hosted famous guests like Al Capone and Clark Gable.

6. The city hosts an annual Ostrich Festival. This event commemorates Chandler's history with ostrich farms that produced plumes for women's hats during the 1910s.

Modern Innovation and Tech Sector

Chandler has evolved into a hub for technology and innovation, earning it the nickname "Silicon Desert."

7. Chandler is home to major tech companies like Intel and Microchip Technology. These companies have established operations in the city, making it a center for innovation.

8. Chandler is the only city in the nation to have reduced parking standards for new developments that consider autonomous vehicles. This forward-thinking approach reflects the city's commitment to sustainability.

Parks and Recreation

Chandler offers a wealth of parks and recreational activities, making it a vibrant place to live and visit.

9. Chandler boasts 67 parks, with one park in every residential square mile. The city also features six aquatic centers, a bike park, skate park, multiple dog parks, and a 7.5-mile trail system called the Paseo.

10. Folley Park was named after Zora Folley, a former city council member and heavyweight boxer. He fought Muhammad Ali for the title and is remembered for his contributions to the city.

Unique Traditions and Cultural Events

Chandler's unique traditions and cultural events add to its charm and community spirit.

11. The annual Tumbleweed holiday tree is a unique tradition in Chandler. The tree is made from 1,500 to 2,000 tumbleweeds, adorned with 1,200 lights, 65 pounds of glitter, and 25 pounds of paint.

12. Chandler hosts various cultural events throughout the year. These include the Ostrich Festival and the annual ceremony to light the tumbleweed tree.

Sister Cities and International Connections

Chandler's international connections foster cultural exchange and cooperation.

13. Chandler has two sister cities: Tullamore, County Offaly, Ireland, and Tainan, Taiwan. These relationships promote cultural exchange and collaboration.

Transportation and Connectivity

Chandler is well-connected to the rest of the Phoenix metropolitan area, making it easy to get around.

14. Chandler is connected through three limited access highways: Loop 202, Loop 101, and Interstate 10. The city is also served by two single-track branch lines of the Union Pacific Railroad.

Healthcare and Education

Chandler offers excellent healthcare and educational facilities, contributing to the well-being of its residents.

15. Chandler is home to several hospitals, including Chandler Regional Medical Center and Banner Ocotillo Medical Center. These facilities provide comprehensive medical services to the community.

16. Chandler is part of the Chandler Unified School District. The district operates several schools known for their high-quality education and extracurricular programs.

Water Management and Sustainability

Chandler has implemented various sustainability efforts, reflecting its commitment to environmental stewardship.

17. Chandler uses water from 22 wells operating within the city. The oldest drinking water well, the Erie well, has been in service since 1948 and has produced an estimated 8.614 billion gallons of drinking water.

18. The gray water produced by high-tech companies like Intel is used to irrigate the lakes at Ocotillo. This reduces the city's water consumption and promotes sustainability.

Real Estate and Housing

Chandler offers a range of housing options, making it a desirable place to live.

19. The median home sale price in Chandler is $546,000. The average monthly rent is $1,759, providing affordable housing options for renters.

20. Chandler has a Walk Score of 35/100. While not highly walkable, it offers some pedestrian-friendly areas. The Transit Score is 24/100, and the Bike Score is 55/100.

Aerospace Industry

Chandler plays a significant role in the aerospace industry, contributing to advanced technology and space exploration.

21. Chandler is home to companies like Orbital ATK. These companies design and build advanced aerospace technology and space exploration equipment.

Historic Landmarks and Architectural Heritage

Chandler's historic landmarks and architectural heritage add to its unique character.

22. The San Marcos Hotel is one of Chandler's historic landmarks. Named after the Franciscan Friar Marcos de Niza, the hotel was a popular destination for celebrities and politicians.

23. The McCullough-Price House, now the Chandler Museum, was once owned by Dr. A.J. Chandler’s niece, Louise Price. This historic house serves as a museum showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage.

24. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright and Dr. A.J. Chandler had plans for a second San Marcos Resort in 1930. Known as "San Marcos in the Desert," the project was never built due to the Great Depression.

Community Engagement and Recognition

Chandler is known for its community engagement and has received various recognitions for its efforts.

25. Chandler was named an All-America City by the National Civic League in 2010. It was the only Arizona winner for the 61st annual awards.

26. For 11 years running, Chandler has received a “Playful City USA” award. This recognition highlights the city's commitment to creating a fun and engaging environment for its residents.

Notable Residents

Chandler has been home to several notable residents who have made significant contributions in various fields.

27. Chandler has been home to Ryan Bader (MMA fighter), Cody Bellinger (MLB player), and Zora Folley (professional heavyweight boxer). These individuals have brought recognition to the city through their achievements.

Job Market and Economic Opportunities

Chandler offers a thriving job market and numerous economic opportunities for its residents.

28. Chandler was named the number one best place in America to find a job by Wallet Hub. This recognition reflects the city's thriving job market and economic opportunities.

29. The "New Square" development envisions more than 150,000 square feet of office space, commercial, and hotel development. This project is expected to create 500 to 700 new jobs.

Fun and Recreational Activities

Chandler offers a variety of fun and recreational activities for residents and visitors alike.

30. Chandler offers hot air balloon rides. These rides provide a unique perspective on the city's desert landscape and are a popular tourist attraction.

31. Chandler offers a variety of recreational activities, including Zombie Zumba at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center around Halloween. This event adds to the city's festive atmosphere.

Demographics and Community

Chandler's demographics reflect a young and vibrant community with a strong sense of identity.

32. The median age in Chandler is 34.1 years. The city's population density is 4,393 people per square mile, and it has experienced zero snow days, reflecting its desert climate.

33. Women own 31.7 percent of the businesses in Chandler. This indicates a strong presence of female entrepreneurs in the city.

34. Chandler was named the seventh hardest working city in the country. Residents work an average of 1,165 hours per year, reflecting the city's strong work ethic.

Unique Businesses and Attractions

Chandler is home to unique businesses and attractions that add to its eclectic charm.

35. Chandler is home to a unique crematorium called Crazy Carl’s Crematorium. Owned by Crazy Carl himself, this quirky business adds to the city's character.

36. Chandler's tourist attractions include the Chandler Center for the Arts, the Ostrich Festival, and the annual Tumbleweed tree lighting ceremony. These events draw visitors from across the country.

37. Chandler Airport started regular commercial service in the 1920s and is the 40th busiest airport in the country. It also has the busiest FAA contract tower in the U.S.

38. Chandler's commitment to education and innovation is evident in its partnerships with educational institutions and tech companies. The city provides students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects and internships.

39. Chandler has implemented various sustainability efforts, including the use of gray water and reduced parking standards for autonomous vehicles. These initiatives reflect the city's dedication to environmental stewardship.

40. Chandler's tourist attractions include the Chandler Center for the Arts, the Ostrich Festival, and the annual Tumbleweed tree lighting ceremony. These events draw visitors from across the country and contribute to the city's economic growth.

Chandler: A Blend of History and Innovation

Chandler, Arizona, stands out as a city that mixes rich history with modern innovation. From its beginnings as an agricultural town founded by Dr. Alexander John Chandler to becoming a tech hub known as the "Silicon Desert," Chandler has grown remarkably. The city offers a variety of cultural events, like the Ostrich Festival and the unique Tumbleweed Tree, adding to its vibrant community spirit. With major companies like Intel setting up shop, Chandler has become a hotspot for tech and job opportunities. The city's commitment to sustainability and education further enhances its appeal. Whether you're drawn to its historic landmarks, recreational activities, or booming job market, Chandler has something for everyone. It's a place where tradition meets progress, making it a unique and exciting place to live or visit.