Tucson, too SAHN or TOO sahn, is one of the oldest towns in the United States. Tucson was originally an Indian village called Stook-zone, meaning water at the foot of black mountain. Hugo O'Conor established the Tucson Presidio in 1775. August 20th, 1775 is considered Tucson's birthday. Spanish settlers arrived in the area in 1776.  Tucson officially became part of the United States with the Gadsden Purchase of 1854. Tucson served as capital of the Arizona Territory from 1867 to 1877.

Tucson boasts the best of both worlds...the progress and innovation of a metropolitan community and the friendly, caring atmosphere of a small town. Tucson's rich cultural heritage centers around a unique blend of Native American, Spanish, Mexican and Anglo-American influences.  Blessed with the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert and an unsurpassed climate of 360 sunny days a year, Tucsonans embrace a rare lifestyle and are committed to preserving that quality of life.

Elevation: 2,389 feet

Polulation: Tucson Metropolitan Area reached 1 million in November 2006

Geographical size: Metropolitan area covers more than 600 square miles.

Proximity to other areas: Phoenis (115 miles); Mexico (63 miles); San Diego (420 miles); Los Angeles (520 miles); Las Vegas (399 miles).

Third fastest growing city in U.S., according to The University of Arizona's Eller College of Business and Public Administration.

Weather: Average high temperature, 81.7; low 54.2