The Sunnyslope Historical Society at 737 E. Hatcher Road was the site of the first community Palo Verde Festival, held last month during the dedication of the museum’s new courtyard.

An April 2006 editorial in The Arizona Republic suggested that Phoenix hold annual Palo Verde festivals to celebrate the beauty of this blooming tree. Unfortunately, 2007 was the winter of the killing frosts so that year’s Palo Verde blossoms left much to be desired and nothing was done to initiate a festival.

Officially cutting the ribbon on the recently completed courtyard at the Sunnyslope History Museum are, from left: Jim Kreamer, Ron Gawlitta, Bobbie Kraver and Jon Taylor from Spire Engineering (submitted photo).

Members of the Sunnyslope History Museum felt there was no better time to host the initial Palo Verde Festival than at the dedication of the new courtyard with its beautiful Palo Verde trees.

Gary Kudes from Phoenix City Parks and Recreation was the featured speaker at the event. A horticulturist, Kudes spoke on the care of the Palo Verde.  Shelley MacDonald read the history of the Palo Verde becoming the state tree from information provided by Linda Reib at the State Capitol History & Archives Division. Museum members and organizers hope to continue the Palo Verde Festival each year. Why not join the Historical Society to help start the celebration?

For more information, contact the Historical Society at 602-331-3150 to help plan this event for next spring.