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A look back at Surprise's history on this week

Posted 11/20/20

Here is a look at Surprise history through the years on this week, compiled from archives of Independent Newsmedia, Newspapers.com and the city of Surprise historical records.

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Almanac

A look back at Surprise's history on this week

Posted

Here is a look at Surprise history through the years on this week, compiled from archives of Independent Newsmedia, Newspapers.com and the City of Surprise historical records:

1959

Surprise residents object to El Mirage’s attempt to annex their area, arguing they already receive Maricopa County services and will make improvements such as road paving themselves.

1987

Surprise honors its 50th year since founder Flora Mae Stateler bought land here with its Founder’s Day celebration. It includes a parade, Mexican rodeo, bullfight and fireworks. Most of the $12,000 it costs to put on the event comes from groups developing the town. With 4,300, estimates have the town tripling in population by 1990.

1990

The Surprise City Council picks Dick McComb as its new city manager, replacing Nick Bacon, who resigned in July after three years. Mr. McComb was previously the city manager in El Mirage, Coolidge and Gila Bend. The council selected Mr. McComb over former Peoria City Manager James Walker. He will make $54,000 a year.

1997

Surprise annexes 320 acres of land along Bullard Avenue between Greenway and Waddell roads to make way for Ashton Ranch subdivision.

2000

The Flood Control District of Maricopa County is designing plans for a park along the Agua Fria riverbed. A meeting to discuss the Agua Fria Watercourse Master Plan is held in Surprise. The riverbed runs west of Coyotes Lakes in its span through Surprise.

2001

The volunteer spring training group, the Sun Dancers, forms with volunteers signing up at Surprise Day at the Peoria Sports Complex.