Tucson is a city in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert surrounded by multiple mountain ranges, including the Santa Catalinas. Reflecting its 19th-century beginnings are the restored mansions of its El Presidio Historic District and the adobe row houses of Barrio Historico. Home to the University of Arizona, Tuscon has many student-friendly vintage shops, nightclubs and restaurants on Fourth Avenue near the campus. Tucson, is one of the oldest towns in the United States. Tucson was originally an Indian village called Stook-zone, meaning water at the foot of Black Mountain. Hugo O'Conor established the Tucson Presidio in 1775. August 20th, 1775 is considered Tucson's birthday. Spanish settlers arrived in the area in 1776. Tucson officially became part of the United States with the Gadsden Purchase of 1854. Tucson served as capital of the Arizona Territory from 1867 to 1877. Tucson boasts the best of both worlds...the progress and innovation of a Rodeo Dancers metropolitan community and the friendly, caring atmosphere of a small town.