Sunnyslope book coverPhoenix author Reba Wells Grandrud tells the story of Sunnyslope’s past century in her book, “Images of America: Sunnyslope,” featuring more than 200 images culled from the archives of the Sunnyslope Historical Society. She will sign copies of her book from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, at the Sunnyslope History Museum, 737 E. Hatcher Road. Books will be available for purchase at the event.

Founded in 1911 by William R. Norton, Sunnyslope is older than the state of Arizona. By 1919, the desert settlement had only four or five cottages and no roads, no electricity and no running water.

That soon changed as those recovering from tuberculosis sought the relief of Sunnyslope’s dry climate. In 1927, the Desert Mission was established, with its nurses dubbed the “Angels of the Desert.” This would eventually become the modern, multistory John C. Lincoln Hospital at North Mountain.

A post-World War II boom saw Sunnyslope’s population grow with small businesses, schools and churches being established that still serve the community today.

Annexed by the city of Phoenix in 1959, Sunnyslope, with its roughly 40,000 residents, retains its unique identity to this day. “Images of America: Sunnyslope” allows readers to glimpse this unique past through rare, historic images.
The softcover book is available at area bookstores, independent retailers, and online retailers, or through Arcadia Publishing at 888-313-2665 or online at www.arcadiapublishing.com.

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