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Florence is located in Pinal County midway between Phoenix and Tucson. Colonel Levi Ruggles, an Indian agent, staked and platted the town in 1866. Sources cite different origins for the town's name, but all agree it was named after someone's sister or daughter. By the 1920s, the area had become the agricultural center of the county.
The Florence business district is still on Main Street and, aside from the obvious improvements, downtown remains much as it must have been in the 1880s. Both visitors and residents appreciate the diversity of the community. Florence offers the convenience and lifestyle available in a small western community, yet is only 45 minutes away from the Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas. Incorporated in 1908, Florence, at an elevation of 1,493 feet, has been the county seat since its formation in 1875.
Principal Economic Activities
Florence is home to both the Pinal County government complex and the Arizona State Prison. Agricultural products from the area include cotton, cattle, grains, and grapes.
In January 1987, Florence was selected for inclusion in the Main Street Program sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This public/private partnership program assists businesses in design and promotion, with the ultimate goal of economic revitalization for the central business district.
Because of the year-round sunshine and ideal climate, Florence is a perfect destination for the retired. It is excellent for those seeking a warm, clean air area for health purposes.
 Scenic Attractions
As the fifth oldest town in the state, downtown Florence has been designated an official "Historic District." It is said Florence has more buildings listed on the National Register than any other town in Arizona. Some of the notable historic sites are the first and second county courthouses, both completely different in architectural style. The first was built in 1877 and is open to the public as McFarland State Park. The second was built in 1891 of American-Victorian architecture and is still in use today. The fully restored Brunenkant Building, built in 1889, serves today as the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce. The Pinal County Visitors Center, formerly located in the historic Suter House, is now located at 330 E. Butte.
Pinal Pioneer Parkway, a portion of U.S. 79 south of Florence, contains a unique natural garden. Virtually all species of Arizona desert flora are displayed and identified along the main route and easily accessible side roads. The Tom Mix Monument, commemorating where a popular movie cowboy died in 1940 when his Cord automobile crashed, is located on the parkway.
Since 1932, Florence has been the home of the world's oldest Junior Rodeo in the United States. It is held every Thanksgiving weekend.
Community Facilities
Florence offers a broad range of community facilities including a County Visitor Center, recreation center, two museums, one library, three parks, one swimming pool, several softball fields and tennis courts, and a golf course. The Florence Senior Center also offers a van program for shopping and medical transportation for seniors.
Education
Florence has a public elementary school, middle school and high school. Central Arizona College District serves all of Pinal County. The college, which is 18 miles west of Florence, has branches at Signal Peak, Aravaipa, and Apache Junction. Community education courses, including both credit and non-credit special interest courses are offered in Florence. Arizona State University, a four-year institution with undergraduate and graduate programs, is located 47 miles north. The University of Arizona, a four-year institution, is located 67 miles south.
Financial
There are two financial institutions in Florence. Florence businesses are eligible for assistance in financing fixed assets through the Finance and Administration Division of the Arizona Department of Commerce. Information on private activity bonds within the town may be obtained from the same source or from the Industrial Development Authority of Florence, Arizona; P.O. Box 1165, Florence, AZ 85232.
Governmental
The Town of Florence is governed by a mayor, six council members and a town manager. There also is a police department, sheriff's department and fire department.
Airport
The residents of Florence use the Coolidge Airport, which has two paved runways, one 5,590-foot and one 3,750 foot.
Lodging and Meeting Facilities
There are three facilities for overnight lodging, a 24-unit motel, a seven-unit motel (guest ranch, bed and breakfast), and a three-room bed and breakfast. The area also offers three RV parks with full hookups.
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