What is the historical significance of Arizona’s Sierra Estrellas?

Dusty Calliham
Surprise, Arizona

The Estrella Mountains could be called Arizona’s “Belly Button.” Since 1867, it has been the starting point of all land surveying used for property deeds and real estate taxation in the state. Monument Hill, a.k.a. Rattlesnake Hill, rises over the confluence of Gila and Salt Rivers, about 14 miles southwest of Phoenix.


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