“To Steal a Kingdom – The Remarkable Story of the Most Outrageous Land Fraud Ever” with Jay Mark

PRESENTATION DESCRIPTION

In the late-19th century, Arizona was the center of one the grandest land-fraud schemes perpetrated in the U.S. As the result of an apparent 17th century royal decree, more than 12-million acres from central Arizona to western New Mexico were claimed as private property — the largest single land ownership in the country, called the Peralta Grant. This is the incredulous story of how James Addison Reavis single handedly stole most of central Arizona.

This program is cohosted by The Museum of Casa Grande.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Historian Jay Mark’s career includes antiques & bookstore owner, commercial photography, professional theater, radio, and television broadcaster. His background, knowledge and experience contribute to his lively and engaging presentations. A regular contributor of history- related articles to the Antique Register; Arizona Contractor & Community, and The Arizona Republic, Jay is also a published writer of seven antiques-related books. He is co-author of a history of The Buckhorn Baths in Mesa. Mark has received numerous awards honoring his service to the community, including the Governor’s Heritage award of the Arizona Preservation Foundation, and the State Historic Preservation Office. Mark remains actively engaged in issues relating to historic preservation, history museums, urban planning, and public policy.