Record Group 5.1
OLD SETTLERS PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION

CALL NUMBER: RG 5.1

EXTENT: 274 - 4x5" copy negatives in 1 box and 274 - 4x5" contact print photographs in 2 boxes.

PROVENANCE: The collection was assembled by the Old Settlers of Tempe Association in 1971 for use during the Tempe Centennial, and was later donated to the Tempe Historical Society.

SCOPE: Historic photographs relating to places, people and events in Tempe collected by the Old Settlers of Tempe Association.

CONTENT: Copy print photograph project started in 1971, comprised of copies of original photographs which date from 1874-1950 (bulk dates, 1890-1920).
ORGANIZATIONAL SKETCH: In the fall of 1902, a group of local pioneers met at the home of Niels and Susanna Petersen for a dinner meeting and a chance to reminisce about Tempe's early days. An informal organization was formed, and Mr. Petersen was elected president. This meeting was the beginning of a local tradition, the first annual gathering of Tempe pioneers that became known as the "Old Settlers Picnic." The Old Settlers have gotten together nearly every October since then to share interests, renew acquaintances, and remember friends and family members who had passed away in the past year. In addition to this annual event, the Old Settlers have assisted with the preservation of Tempe history through numerous special projects.

COLLECTION DESCRIPTION: One of the most important preservation projects of the Old Settlers Association was the Old Settlers Photographic Project. Thane Reed started this project in 1971 to acquire a large set of historic photographs for use during the Tempe Centennial. Many people loaned or gave their own historic family photographs to be copied. Individuals, families and businesses sponsored photographs, paying for the cost of copying, printing, and mounting large photographic prints. These photographs were used for public exhibits, as well as publication in the Tempe Daily News and in a special centennial program called Ferry Tales. When the Tempe Historical Society was formed in 1972, the copy prints and negatives were donated to the Society. The collection includes the original 274 copy negatives and the corresponding contact prints that were produced as a result of that project.

RELATED MATERIALS:
  • Photos and History of the Old Settlers of Tempe Association
  • TH-562 - Tempe Old Settlers Association