In 1891, the first veterinary surgeon for the territory of Arizona, Dr. Alexander John Chandler, acquired 80 acres of land south of Mesa in the Salt River Valley from the federal government. Dr. Chandler learned the relatively new irrigation engineering science and was instrumental in constructing an early canal system in an arid desert. By the turn of the century, an 18,000-acre ranch was operated by Dr. Chandler.

The Salt River Project charter provided that each landowner could receive sufficient water to irrigate only 160 acres. In subdividing his ranch and drafting a townsite map, Dr. Chandler sought planners and architects’ assistance. He then nationally advertised the selling of sites at Chandler Ranch.

A new version of their original turn-of-the-century look has been restored to the downtown storefronts, and the plaza has been renovated and named after the founder of the city. The Arts Center, new parks, restaurants, and shopping centers mark the city’s promising future. Family festivals such as the Ostrich Festival make Chandler a popular destination for travelers from all over the world and a host of other annual events. Chandler is a beutiful suburb and a wonderful place to call home.

Neighboring cities include Gilbert, Ahwatukee, Tempe, Mesa, Queen Creek, and Phoenix.