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The Legacy of Rollin Rice Richardson

Rollin Rice Richardson, a Pennsylvanian who made his fortune in oil, followed his friends to southern Arizona to be a cattleman and land speculator. He ended up founding "Rollin," now known as Patagonia, in 1896.

After the New Mexico and Arizona Railroad discontinued service through Patagonia and pulled out its tracks, the once bustling town center became dormant. In 1966, the town turned the former rail track "right of way" into a town park, and named it after the man who started it all, Rollin Rice Richardson.

In years gone by, the town park or town square was a gathering place. A place where festivals were held, music played from the gazebo, and young lovers held hands.

In Patagonia, it still is.

With its charming gazebo and rosebush-lined columns, Richardson Town Park is a favorite place for family reunions, quiet walks, football tosses, and local events. It's also the home of the Annual Fall Festival and Fourth of July activities. Lined with Arizona walnut, willow, and oak trees, the park provides needed summer shade and a glorious show of color during the autumn months.

Take advantage of this green haven during your visit by bringing a picnic or enjoying a refreshing ice cream cone on the grass—just like Patagonia's founders once did.