Grace Sparkes worked for the Yavapai County Chamber of Commerce, and later became the Immigration Commissioner, a position she held until 1945. In these positions, Grace often pushed for the preservation of historic sites in Arizona. In the 1950s, Grace was an advocate for national parks. She campaigned successfully to add more land to Montezuma Castle National Monument, an act which helped protect more of the site’s resources. She also played a crucial role in establishing Coronado National Monument and supported preservation work at Tuzigoot National Monument during the Great Depression. By 1960, Grace worked part-time as a Park Historian. Grace’s passion for preserving the past is still alive and well in the work being carried at Montezuma Castle today! Further reading:A Look Back at the Life and Legacy of Grace Marion Sparkes Grace Sparkes Photograph Collection finding aid, Arizona Historical Society 100 Years of Preservation and Stewardship: Montezuma Castle National Monument Centennial: 1906-2006 |
Last updated: July 29, 2020