Mexican Americans -- Mesa (Ariz.) -- Interviews

Abstract Perez tells about his family emigrating from Mexico to Mesa, Arizona, in 1920, where they homesteaded. He discusses his siblings, the house on North Morris Street where he grew up, and attending Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He describes downtown Mesa where his father opened a shoemaking shop on Main Street. Perez mentions several downtown businesses including the Nile Theater, The Oasis (lunch counter), and some retail stores. He talks about attending Mesa schools, working in his father's...

Abstract Lupe Daniel, a lifelong resident of Mesa, Arizona, talks about spending time as a young boy with Ms. Alma Blew who served as a missionary at the Mexican Methodist Church. He describes Ms. Blew's physical appearance and disposition, and tells of the ways she helped his family and many people in the community. He also gives some description of the neighborhood and buildings surrounding the church building. Daniel talks about growing up in Mesa and attending school; he gives descriptions of the...

Abstract Mr. Guerrero came to Mesa in 1914 at the age of 18, and has lived at 37 N. Mesa Drive for 65 years. He describes the area surrounding his home, the streets, and the evolution of transportation in Mesa. He recalls the Stanley Steamer automobile owned by Mr. Spillsbury, the co-owner of LeSueur-Spillsbury Department Store, where Mr. Guerrero worked at one time. Because Mr. Guerrero could speak English, Spanish and the Indian dialect, he was hired to help Mr. Fred Bracket in the A&B Grocery...