Yuma

Yuma is in the southwest corner of Arizona, just below the Colorado and Gila Rivers convergence.  Since prehistoric times, Yuma has been the best site for crossing the Colorado River.  Yuma was named for the Yuman Indians, so called because of their habit of setting fires along the river (humo meaning smoke in Spanish).  Fort Yuma was built during the gold rush to bring peace to the area and insure a safe route into California.  Established in 1854 as Colorado City, the town became Arizona City and finally Yuma.  Incorporated under the name Arizona City in 1871, it was reincorporated as Yuma and now serves as the Yuma County seat.  Yuma remains a key crossroad for air and land transportation.

PRINCIPAL ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
Agriculture is a major economic factor, and at the current rate of growth, Yuma-area agribusiness will be a billion-dollar industry by the century's beginning.  Tourism and the military also contribute substantially to the economy.  New and existing light industry increases Yuma's economic diversity.  The Mexican free-port of San Luis Rio Colorado is located 23 miles southwest.  For industries interested in offshore manufacturing, or twin-plant operations, San Luis has all facilities necessary.