What's Happening in Tempe, AZ…

A historic home built back during Tempe’s days as a small town is once again open for its annual holiday season tours.

The public is invited to come to the historic home, which has been specially decorated for the event. They will have an opportunity to learn about its history and enjoy light refreshments. This will be the only time through the whole year when it will be open in this way, and a booklet printing company can produce pamphlets that give more information about the property and its history.

Petersen House, which is a large 13-room building from the Victorian era, was built in the Queen Anne style. Its designer was James Creighton, who was a noted architect at the time. The home’s owner, Nieles Peterson, was well known for hosting lavish holiday celebrations there, and that tradition can be seen today.

Over the years, the home has passed through several hands, finally being gifted it to the city in 1977. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and, some years later, it underwent an expansive restoration project to repair the damage caused by time. It is now open to the public for a few weeks each year.

Petersen House is located at 1414 W Southern - NW Corner of Southern and Priest. There is no entry fee, but donations are welcome and appreciated. Anyone who would like more information is asked to call 480-350-5100.