From Switzerland to the Sonoran Desert and His Lasting Arizona Legacy
March 1847 was an important month for Oro Valley and Southern Arizona, although the activity that occurred that month happened in Switzerland – Johann Zellweger was born. Who? So what? Read on to find out why…
Many of you know of George Pusch – a German immigrant who came to Tucson in the late 1800’s and was the mastermind behind Steam Pump Ranch, but did you know he had a partner? In 1865, Zellweger also came to the United States by ship and landed in New York. Oral history and actuality diverge here. He either knew George Pusch prior to the trip, they met on the ship, or they met in New York. Whatever the reality, they were both meat cutters by trade and soon found employment in their new home country. But New York City couldn’t hold them. Pusch, who had always wanted to be a cattleman, left for the west coast and finally persuaded Johann to join him in Tucson, at the time, a city of 3,000 people. They opened a butcher shop and a slaughterhouse in Tucson.
In 1883, Zellweger sold his share of the ranch and the rights to the steam pump to Pusch. It was recorded as a Bill of Sale and not a Transfer of Deed indicating that no one ‘technically’ owned the land.
Together George Pusch and Johann Zellweger also bought a part of what was then the Cañada del Oro Ranch and after hand digging a well, and bringing in a steam pump, they were able to provide water for their own herd of cattle, other cattle ranchers, and horses for the cavalry, prospectors, stagecoach travelers, and the Indigenous population. The men earned their living through sale of their cattle and by charging $.15 per head of cattle/horse/mule that partook of the lifegiving water in the desert. They also had a blacksmith shop at the ranch for any riders who needed their service. Thus, the beginning of Steam Pump Ranch, now a historic site on North Oracle Road which you can visit every day.
Sophie and Johann Zellweger
The two men even married two women who were friends within just a couple of years of each other. After his marriage to Sophia Spieling in 1883, Zellweger sold his interests in his Tucson businesses with Pusch and relocated to Florence, Arizona where he had a filed a mining claim on the Tea Cup Ranch, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. He and Pusch remained friends and worked together on other endeavors even after the move to Florence.
John Zellweger House. 191 North Willow Street, Florence, Arizona
Historic Site John Zellweger Sign Florence, Arizona
After relocating to Florence, John Zellweger continued ranching and farming, as well as becoming involved in the Florence community. He was a founder of the First National Bank of Florence, and he and his family were known for their Craftsman bungalows on Willow Street, which became notable landmarks in Florence. His home was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting his lasting impact on the community.
While in Florence enjoy scenic strolls, historic homes, and great local eats! Find the details in Walking Tour: Discover Florence’s Hidden History.
Z Mansion, 288 North Church Avenue, Tucson
Around 1900, the Zellweger family bought the Z Mansion in downtown Tucson and made it their home for the next 75 years. The Z Mansion now serves brunch to homeless women, men, and children every Sunday and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
OVHS Fundraiser at Z Mansion in 2018
Imagine having lived in three homes that are now on the National Register of Historic Places – pretty good for a young Swiss man trying to make a better life for himself in America. We thank him for the legacy he left us with; his life and the architectural achievements we can see today throughout Southeastern Arizona. Visit the Pusch House Museum at historic Steam Pump Ranch on Saturdays from 9 a.m. – noon. for more historical information. History loves company!
ovhistory.org
Written by Devon Sloan, Secretary of Oro Valley Historical Society for OVStyle MAGAZINE. March 2025 | OV Style Magazine 9
FUN PHOTO: John’s son, Frank Zellweger, Driver in Car, early 1930s Tucson
John passed away on March 1, 1924, and is buried at Evergreen Memorial Park in Tucson, Arizona at plot Block 16, Section C, Grave 3-2 alongside his wives, Marie and Sophie. Find their grave.