From Cotton Fields to Corporate Giants: Randolph, Arizona's Story

Randolph, Arizona, a quaint enclave within Coolidge, Pinal County, boasts a storied past steeped in agriculture and communal strength. Established in 1925, it drew farmers nationwide, including many Black farmers seeking opportunities in its cotton fields. These pioneers forged a robust community, finding support and camaraderie amidst their shared journey.

Ron Jordan, son of "Preacher Jordan," played a pivotal role. His father welcomed Arkansas farmers, offering refuge in six cabins on his property. Jordan, of mixed heritage, fondly recalls Randolph's close-knit ambiance.

Gussie Taylor, a longtime resident originally from Coolidge, found deep ties to Randolph through St. Paul Church, tragically lost to fire. Her father, a head deacon from Texas, sought a better life in Arizona.

Despite challenges, Randolph thrived on community spirit. Residents rallied, sharing resources and fostering unity. Yet, integration brought its own struggles. Jordan and Taylor faced discrimination in schools, highlighting societal disparities.

Randolph's agricultural landscape evolved with advancing technology, yielding to corporate interests. The town transformed, leaving many nostalgic for its former way of life. Corporate efforts to support the community often fell short of expectations.

Recent years brought fresh hurdles, like opposition to a gas-fired power plant expansion due to pollution concerns. Residents' activism secured a settlement funding substantial community enhancements.

Today, Randolph revitalizes with paved streets and sidewalk projects reshaping its outlook. Efforts to preserve its legacy include seeking historical designation. As Randolph progresses, it embodies resilience and community spirit, a testament to enduring values.