Christopher City was a full-service community constructed in Tucson on 70 acres at Columbus Boulevard and Ft. Lowell Road. It opened in the spring of 1963. Construction was sponsored by the Catholic organization the Knights of Columbus at a cost of $5,600,000.
There were efficiency and one- and two- bedroom apartments, limited nursing care, a club house, stage, pool, and small shopping center on the grounds. The community was initially marketed towards Catholics and later towards members of the Jewish and Protestant faiths. The community didn’t do well financially. In 1966, the Federal Housing Administration foreclosed on the property. In 1967, the University of Arizona purchased the property at a price of $2,450,000 for married student housing. In 2000, the property was found to be infested with mold and was demolished.
Source:
“UA to shut down Christopher City - Mold infestation blamed for eviction, but some residents say it's a ruse.” Arizona Daily Star. May 9, 2000. Page A1.
Find the information you need by calling the Library's Infoline at 520-791-4010 or by sending your question to Ask A Librarian.
