News

German Heritage Exhibi

Congress, by Public Law 100 – 104, designated October 6, 1987, the 304th anniversary of the arrival of the first German immigrants in Philadelphia, as “German-American Day” and authorized and requested President Reagan to issue a proclamation in observance of that day. “Now, therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Tuesday, October 6, 1987, as German-American Day. I urge all Americans to learn more about the contributions of German immigrants to the life and culture of the United States and to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

Oro Valley Historical Society will observe the spirit of this proclamation by dedicating the month of October to German-American Heritage.

This month’s exhibit will feature prominent German-Americans who contributed to the development of Oro Valley and Tucson.  The exhibit also features the history of German immigration to the United States, German culture and traditions.  We also have a beautiful new addition to OVHS collections.  “The Complete Domestic Bible” (published in German) by Hubbard Brothers Publishing in Philadelphia, PA in 1873 is on display.  It was donated to the Society by Steve and Peggy Drennan.  Many thanks to Steve and Peggy for their contribution of this important piece for our German heritage exhibit.

The exhibit is open EVERY Saturday from 9 to Noon at the Pusch House Museum at Historical Steam Pump Ranch (10901 N. Oracle Rd. Oro Valley).

Whether you’re German or not, there’s much to learn about local history with a German twist from this fun and fact-filled exhibit.

The exhibit is free but in order to continue exhibits and activities, OVHS appreciates your $5 donation.

Arizona is heavily influenced by  Indigenous People and Hispanic roots.  This month the Oro Valley Historical Society is focusing on Hispanic-American Heritage.  See the Hispanic history of the southwest and our area; historical timetable, early settlers, and prominent people.  Learn about Hispanic traditions and culture that are shared in the greater Tucson area.

The exhibit will run on Saturdays in September (from 9 to Noon) at the Pusch House Museum at Steam Pump Ranch Historical Park located at 10901 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley.  Suggested donation $5

Check off another item on the OVHS “to do” list.  Collections Chair, Sue Chambasian, had the restoration of Tootsie’s steamer trunk on her wish list.  The trunk was donated to OVHS by Henry G. Zipf, Gertrude’s son.

Thanks to Joe Frannea, a longtime OVHS volunteer and supporter, Sue’s wish came true!  Joe was able to reattach the domed lid to the trunk and then fabricated strapping pieces, handles and other hardware that were in need of repair or replacement.  He also discovered a beautiful embossed design on the top and body of the trunk that had been hidden due to years of being stored. The outcome was more than OVHS ever could have hoped for!  THANK YOU, JOE!

Now about the trunk.  The trunk belonged to Gertrude “Tootsie” Pusch, daughter of George and Mathilda Pusch.   Tootsie definitely didn’t quite fit the mold of a women growing up in the late 1800s/early 1900s.  She was one of the first female students at the U of A and we know that she traveled due to correspondence in our collections.  She was an avid equestrian and could shoot a rifle.  She was even a postmaster!

Find out more about Tootsie and see the trunk restoration in the Pusch Room at the Pusch House Museum at Steam Pump Ranch (10901 N. Oracle, Oro Valley) on Saturdays from 9 to Noon.

Henry Zipf

The Oro Valley Historical Society (OVHS) Board members are saddened to announce the passing of our friend and President Henry K. Zipf.  Henry was the great-grandson of George and Mathilda (nee Feldman) Pusch, grandson of Gertrude (nee Pusch) and Henry W. Zipf, and son of Henry (Hank) G. and Ann (nee Lourie) Zipf.  Henry is survived by sons Nolan and Stephen and his partner, Debra.  Henry is also survived by a sister, Laurie and brother, Donald. The Pusch/Zipf family has long historical roots in both the Greater Tucson and Oro Valley areas.

Henry was an active member and board member of the Society for many years.  He dedicated much time and many resources to the organization.  He had a great deal of local knowledge of Oro Valley’s early years.  Henry was full of entertaining stories that included ranch life and his lifetime in the Tucson area.  Henry could “spin a good yarn” and his chuckle was infectious!

OVHS is grateful for Henry’s dedication to our mission.  Henry generously donated many Pusch family heirlooms and archival material to the OVHS for its collections.  He was intent on preserving the Pusch family history at Steam Pump Ranch somewhat as a personal legacy but more so, for the benefit of Oro Valley history and the community.  The Oro Valley Historical Society will do its best to continue to carry out Henry’s wishes in that effort.  We will miss him!

Henry and son, Stephen installing a display at the Pusch House Museum

Henry Zipf receiving grant check from Arizona Historical Society representative.

A Celebration of Life Service with be held on Saturday, June 3 at 10:00 a.m. at:

Corpus Christi Catholic Church

300 N. Tanque Verde Loop

Tucson, AZ 85748

Memorial donations at the family’s behest can be made in Henry’s name to:

Oro Valley Historical Society

P.O. Box  69754

Oro Valley, AZ 85737-0021