History with Jim Williams

Discover the work of local historian Jim Williams (and past president of Oro Valley Historical Society), whose books, articles, and engaging video presentations bring Oro Valley’s past to life. Explore his award‑winning research—including the 2025 AASLH Award of Excellence—and find his books, presentation transcriptions, and a full video series right here!

Books and articles:

• Claiming the Desert
• Oro Valley, The First Fifty Years
  • Available for purchase at the Pusch House Museum or find more details here
• Ina Gittings: Pioneer, Educator and Homesteader, by Jim Williams – Originally published in OV Voice, May 2014.

Jim Williams

OVHS Video Series:

History and Ownership of Steam Pump Ranch by Jim Williams (includes rough transcript and photos)

Oro Valley History by Jim Williams, Part 1, Oro Valley History by Jim Williams, Part 2 (for rough transcript click here and scroll down the page – there’s a lot of OV History!!)

The Two Eras of Steam Pump Ranch by Jim Williams (includes rough transcript and photos)

How Oro Valley has Grown and Changed – Jim leads this panel discussion with Dave Perry, Kathi Cuvelier, and Spencer Elliott (for rough transcript click here and scroll down the page n- there’s a lot of OV History!!)

Paul Loomis: A Mayor’s Journey Through Oro Valley’s Growth – Jim interviews Paul about his experience before, during, and after his time as mayor (rough transcript and photos included – filmed August 3, 2021).

Oro Valley Panel Discussion with 3 Mayors – Jim interviews former and current mayors: Joe Winfield, Paul Loomis, and Satish Hiremath (rough transcript and photos included – filmed March 11, 2024).

Check out our entire OVHS Video Series collection or subscribe to the OVHS YouTube channel.