West University

West University is a historic neighborhood in Tucson, Arizona, known for its rich history, diverse architecture, and vibrant community. Here are some key details about the neighborhood:

Location and Boundaries: West University is bounded by Speedway Boulevard, Park Avenue, 6th Street, and Stone Avenue. It's conveniently located near downtown Tucson and the University of Arizona.

Historical Significance: Developed in the late 1800s to early 1900s

• Became the first major subdivision north of the Southern Pacific Railroad
• Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980
• Part of the "West University Historic Preservation Zone"

Population and Demographics: The neighborhood has a population of approximately 6,163 residents.

Architecture: West University features a diverse range of architectural styles, including:

Bungalow (about half of the homes)

• Craftsman
• Prairie
• Mission Revival
• Gothic Revival
• Art Deco
• Neo-Classical

Many homes used basalt stone from nearby A-Mountain (Sentinel Peak). Prominent architects who worked in the neighborhood include Henry Trost, Roy Place, Henry Jaastad, David Holmes, Annie Graham Rockfellow, and Merritt Starkweather.

Notable Residents: West University neighborhood in Tucson has been home to several notable residents who have contributed significantly to the area's development and history. Here are some of the key figures: 

• Ronstadts: The Ronstadt family, including the famous singer Linda Ronstadt, has deep roots in Tucson. The family home, designed by architect Henry Trost, is located on 6th Avenue in the West University neighborhood.
• Drachmans: Another prominent family in Tucson's history, the Drachmans were influential in the development of the city. Their presence in West University highlights the neighborhood's appeal to leading community figures.
• Henry Jaastad: A prolific architect and later mayor of Tucson, Jaastad designed 50 homes in West University as well as several churches. He started his career as a carpenter for Trost & Trost and later opened his own firm in 1908. Jaastad also hired Annie Graham Rockfellow, the first woman architect registered in Arizona, as his lead designer in 1916.
• Annie Graham Rockfellow: As the first woman architect registered in Arizona, Rockfellow made significant contributions to Tucson's architectural landscape. She is credited with designing the El Conquistador Hotel, which she considered her greatest achievement.
• Roy Place: An architect known for his work on two dozen University of Arizona buildings, including the iconic Pima County Courthouse, Place also designed homes in the West University neighborhood.
• Henry Trost: Influenced by Louis Sullivan, Trost was an architect who worked on the Ronstadt house and other significant buildings in the area. His designs contributed to the unique architectural character of West University.

These individuals and families played crucial roles in shaping the architectural and cultural heritage of the West University neighborhood, making it one of Tucson's most historically significant areas.

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