Little more than a century ago, when only a handful of families lived in what is now Sedona, in Oak Creek Canyon, none would have dreamed it would become such a popular destination. The matchlesscombination of bright blue skies and red rocks has inspired artists of every medium to attempt to capture the mystic formations. Fortunately some began almost before the town was named after the wife of early settler T. C. Schnebly, who organized the first post office, at the beginning of the 20th century. From early apple growers to artists, what has united the diverse residents of Sedona over time is the conviction that they have found one of the earth's great treasures.
Author Lisa Schnebly Heidinger is an Arizona native who is proud to know she is Sedona Schnebly's great-granddaughter. A journalist, she has written four previous books about Arizona. For this volume, Heidinger has partnered with Janeen Trevillyan and the Sedona Historical Society and showcased more than 200 images from the society's extensive collection. The nonprofit Sedona Historical Society is headquartered on the historic Jordan farmstead and is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Oak Creek Canyon's history.