Farmers -- Mesa (Ariz.)

Abstract As one of the last farmers to hold farm land inside the city limits of Mesa, Mr. Fitch discusses the difficulties of holding onto his land and farming in the city. He talks about his career as a farmer working with dairy, sheep, cotton, citrus, and hay. The Fitches have been in Mesa since it was a town of about 4000 in 1928, and have lived in the same house on N. Center since 1933. Mr. Fitch talks about how much Mesa has grown, the development of houses and business, and the loss of farm...

Abstract Palmer begins by telling that she was born in Mesa, Arizona, and has lived there all her life. She describes her schooling and names many of her teachers. She recounts that although her family was poor, she never felt poor. She gives some family history and tells of her grandparents, the Hills and the Stapleys, settling in Mesa. She talks about everyday life including doing laundry, preserving food, and sleeping outside in summer. Palmer tells about dating and marrying her husband, Lehi...