Small Wonders: Downtown Gilbert, AZ

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Gilbert is a small town which supports the many local growers in the state of Arizona.  In the past 20 years, this tiny town has undergone a huge growth spurt and has been one of the best places for businesses and people to live.

Gilbert was known as the “hay capital of the world” and in 1902 a rail line was constructed through the land of William “Bobby” Gilbert.  The town of Gilbert began flourishing around it and became a key farming region until the late 1920s.  In the 1970s, Gilbert was granted 53 square miles of county land in order to prosper and grow.  That turned out to be a smart move because this amazing “small wonder” is a hidden gem which is still growing today.

I just recently took an excursion to Gilbert with Sharon.  Although I have been through the town before, I never stopped, got out, and took time walking the downtown area.  I was glad I finally did.  Many of the businesses in this area pride themselves in providing locally owned products.  “Supporting these businesses means more money stays in Arizona and creates a unique community.”

















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