Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Surprise, Arizona, is a city that offers a wealth of intriguing stories and surprising features.
From its humble beginnings as a small agricultural community to its current status as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, Surprise is a place where history and modernity intersect.
Known for its warm climate, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich recreational opportunities, this city has something for everyone.
In this article, we will explore a collection of fascinating facts about Surprise, shedding light on its unique attractions, cultural heritage, and the quirks that make it a standout destination in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
History of Surprise
Surprise, Arizona, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its founding in 1938 by Flora Mae Statler.
Initially, Statler purchased a one-square-mile tract of land for around 35 cents per acre, intending to create a community for agricultural workers.
The town’s name reflects her skepticism about its potential, as she remarked she would be “surprised” if it ever amounted to much.
The region’s development was significantly influenced by the establishment of the Roosevelt Dam in 1911 and the Arizona Canal, which provided essential water resources, allowing agriculture to flourish.
Following World War II, the area saw an influx of airmen returning from service, leading to increased demand for housing and services.
Incorporated as a city in 1960, Surprise experienced rapid growth, particularly with the development of large active adult communities like Sun City, Sun City West, and Sun City Grand, which attracted many retirees.
Today, the city continues to expand, boasting a population of over 143,000 and serving as a spring training location for Major League Baseball teams.
Facts about Surprise
1. Surprise was founded in 1938 by Flora Mae Statler, who named it after her skepticism that the town would ever amount to much.
2. Statler purchased the land that became Surprise for around 35 cents per acre.
3. The town was initially established as a community for agricultural workers, with only a few houses and a gas station on the original one-square-mile parcel.
4. Surprise experienced tremendous growth after its founding and was officially incorporated as a city in 1960.
5. The city’s name is also attributed to Statler’s husband, Homer C. Ludden, who hailed from Surprise, Nebraska.
6. Surprise is located just northwest of Phoenix and is part of the Phoenix-Mesa metropolitan area.
7. The city’s development was made possible by the construction of the Roosevelt Dam in 1911 and the Arizona Canal.
8. After World War II, Surprise saw an influx of airmen returning from service, leading to increased demand for housing and services.
9. Sun City Grand, an age-restricted community, was built in Surprise by the Del Webb property development firm.
10. Surprise is the spring training location for the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers baseball teams.
11. The city is home to the Bead Museum, which showcases exhibits on the global history of beads.
12. The West Valley Art Museum provides valuable information about the local history and culture of the Surprise area.
13. Surprise Park and Centennial Friendship Park offer a variety of recreational facilities for residents and visitors.
14. The Cerreta Candy Factory, located in Surprise, offers tours and a retail store.
15. Luke Air Force Base, a major economic force in the region, is located near Surprise.
16. Thunderbird Field is now the Thunderbird School of Global Management and is another large employer in the area.
17. Surprise is bordered by Peoria to the northeast and Sun City West to the east.
18. The city has a total area of 110.5 square miles, with 0.2 square miles of water.
19. Surprise has a population of 143,148 as of the 2020 census.
20. The Dysart Unified School District serves the majority of Surprise.
21. Surprise’s City Hall is located on the site of Luke Air Force Base’s former auxiliary airfield No. 3.
22. The city is known for its warm climate, making it a popular destination for retirees.
23. Surprise is home to several higher education institutions, including Phoenix College and Glendale Community College.
24. The city’s name is often the subject of jokes and puns, with locals embracing the “surprise” theme.
25. Surprise has a thriving arts and culture scene, with several galleries and museums.
26. The city is home to a diverse array of restaurants, offering cuisines from around the world.
27. Surprise has a strong focus on sustainability, with initiatives to promote renewable energy and water conservation.
28. The city is known for its extensive network of parks, trails, and open spaces.
29. Surprise has a vibrant sports scene, with several youth and adult sports leagues.
30. The city is home to a growing number of technology and innovation companies.
31. Surprise has a rich history of agriculture, with many of the original settlers working as migrant farm workers.
32. The city is known for its annual Surprise Party in the Park event, featuring live music and food trucks.
33. Surprise has a strong sense of community, with numerous neighborhood associations and civic organizations.
34. The city is home to several major shopping centers and retail districts.
35. Surprise has a growing healthcare sector, with several hospitals and medical centers.
36. The city is known for its commitment to public safety, with a well-equipped police department.
37. Surprise has a thriving business community, with a diverse range of industries represented.
38. The city is home to several annual festivals and events, including the Surprise Fiesta.
39. Surprise is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with numerous parks and youth programs available.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings as a small agricultural settlement to its current status as a thriving urban center, Surprise has continuously evolved while maintaining its unique charm.
The city’s diverse attractions, including its vibrant arts scene, recreational facilities, and annual events, make it an appealing destination for residents and visitors alike.
As Surprise continues to grow and develop, it remains committed to fostering a strong sense of community and sustainability.
Whether you’re exploring its parks, enjoying a spring training game, or indulging in local cuisine, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Surprise.
