By Susan Berg
Located just west of
Phoenix, Arizona, Sun City was the first community developed specifically for active older adults.
Predecessor
Delbert Eugene Webb, a land developer, was the mastermind behind the construction of Sun City. Prior to developing Sun City, Webb's company (the Del E. Webb Development Company) built Youngtown, a community for seniors on a fixed income.
Original Idea
The main idea behind the community's construction was its ability to be self-sustaining. It included all the necessities (such as a shopping center and recreational facilities) that an active older adult would need.
Construction
Work began on the community in 1959. Prior to building any homes, a shopping center, recreational center and golf course were built.
Original Name
Sun City's original name was the "Marinette Retirement Community," named after the area's original town name. "Sun City" was chosen as a result of a nationwide contest to name the new community.
Grand Opening
Sun City opened to the public on January 1, 1960. During the development's grand opening weekend, 237 houses were sold.
Further Growth
As the community continued to grow, a number of facilities were added, including theaters, restaurants, churches, hotels and a hospital.
About the Author:
A writer and editor based in southeastern Wyoming, Susan Berg has over ten years of experience in the field. Berg earned a Master of Arts degree in journalism from Indiana University and a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from the University of Dayton. Her work has been published in the "Dayton Daily News" and online at websites including BiologyBiozine.com, Wcities.com, Trails.com, Travels.com and eHow.com.
