Mission Gardens and Tumamoc Hill

Join us for an in-depth visit at the Tucson MIssion Gardens, where we journey back in time to see what this area along the Santa Cruz looked like over the past 4,000 years, using information from archaeological excavations. We will learn how produce ​was used differently in the past, particularly the need to preserve much of a harvest for later consumption, and the need to save seeds to plant the following year. The Mission Gardens are l​ocated in the exact spot where the 18th-century Mission San Agustin garden was planted by Spanish missionaries the site truly transports you back in time. Prior to the Spanish entrada these same fields along the Santa Cruz provided crops for the inhabitants of Tumamoc.

After our visit, we will visit Tumamoc Hill, the world’s oldest ecological restoration site and the site of the remains of of a preceramic village (500-300 B.C) and a subsequent early Hohokam village (A.D. 475 to 700). Suzy and Paul Fish will lead us through the unique trincheras-laced hill top, which is covered with the remains of these occupation and petroglyphs. Please note that we will carpool up to the top of the hill.

There will be a cost of $20 for this trip to cover the fees charge by both the Mission Gardens and the University of Arizona to visit Tumamoc Hill. The trip is limited to 20 people. To register email Pamela Pelletier.