By Mary Goldmeer
Mail

The P.W. Litchfield Heritage Center celebrated Arizona’s birthday early with a Discovery Day event on Wednesday, Feb. 12. 

Visitors gathered to learn about the state’s history, culture, and the local flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert. The event was part of the center’s educational initiatives aimed at exploring the Southwest Valley’s past and present.

Expert forager Karen Bedell was scheduled to present a special talk on “Edible Plants of the Sonoran Desert.” Bedell, known for her work with Sonoran Scavengers, discussed the ways in which local plants can be used for food, showcasing native ingredients such as mesquite beans, prickly pear cactus, and mallow. She also displayed products like jams, flour blends, and shelf-stable curds made with cattail root and other desert plants.

“It’s just crazy what you can make with what’s around you. Depending on the season and what’s local, we have something new and something tasty all the time. Who would’ve thought,” said Dee Nassoiy, a sales associate for Bedell’s stand, Sonoran Scavengers.

Throughout the day, attendees had the chance to engage with the history of Arizona and the West Valley.

The museum also highlighted the historical development of Litchfield Park and its surrounding areas. Visitors learned about the growth of cotton cultivation in the region, particularly through the efforts of Paul W. Litchfield, who in 1916 purchased 16,000 acres of desert land and established a cotton farm for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. This initiative played a key role in the area’s growth, eventually leading to the creation of Litchfield Park as a company town.

 “I love the history in the southwest. Especially since this area is newer than the rest of Phoenix, it’s just so interesting how we can see it developing so quickly within the last 40-50 years and even day-to-day now," said Cydney Jackson, the volunteer event coordinator.

Jackson planned the event and set up educational and interactive materials for people at the museum. The event included a gallery scavenger hunt and a Jr. Historian booklet.

“I like to do a lot that involves drawing what they see, next to text about some facts they’re learning. They always say writing things down helps you retain information, I think drawing does the same,” said Jackson. “You’re never too old for fun facts or a word search.” 

Arizona Discovery Day was a free event, inviting visitors to explore Arizona’s history, learn about desert foraging, and engage with local culture. Attendees learned about the 5 C’s: cotton, cattle, citrus, copper, and climate through educational displays and activities.

The Heritage Center continues to offer programs designed to share the history and culture of the Southwest Valley. 

Visit pwlhc.org for more information.