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TAM Lecture Series #3 - Why is Tucson the city it is today? Exploring the automobile's impact with Ken Scoville

  • February 13, 2026 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

  • Tucson Auto Museum

    4825 North Sabino Canyon Road
    Tucson, Arizona 85750
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Description

Mild winters have long played a significant role in answering the question of why people are drawn to Tucson, attracting health seekers and snowbirds alike. Yet it is the unique geography of the Sonoran Desert and its spectacular surrounding mountain ranges that continue to captivate new arrivals. Tucson’s military presence—dating back to Spanish colonial times and continuing through the establishment of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base—has also profoundly shaped the city’s identity. Beginning at the turn of the 20th century, the University of Arizona and a growing arts community further enriched Tucson’s cultural landscape. However, the single greatest catalyst for change arrived in the 1930s with the automobile becoming the dominant mode of transportation. Its influence transformed the city through grid-style street patterns, suburban expansion, and real estate speculation—impacts that continue to shape Tucson today. Discover how climate, geography, culture, transportation, and innovation have come together to create the dynamic and evolving metropolis of Tucson in 2026.

Date & Time

Fri, Feb 13, 2026 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Venue Details

Tucson Auto Museum

4825 North Sabino Canyon Road
Tucson, Arizona 85750 Tucson Auto Museum
Tucson Auto Museum

The Tucson Auto Museum is a hidden gem in the Sonoran Desert. Featuring dozens of rare, classic cars, the Museum offers a unique experience that is sure to inspire and impress people of all ages. You don't need to be a car lover to enjoy the Tucson Auto Museum either. The beauty and rarity of the cars, along with the stories they tell, make the experience enjoyable for all. As non-profit, our mission is to preserve and showcase these historic vehicles while educating all generations on the importance of the automotive industry. Featuring a state-of-the-art museum space and air conditioning for year-round comfort, the Tucson Auto Museum is a must see.


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