QIA

235 E Ironwood St. Quartzsite, AZ 85346 (PO Box 881)
Phone (928) 927-6325 Fax (928) 927-4503 E-mail qia@redrivernet.com

HISTORY

Glen Fulton, a rancher from Eastern Oregon, had an idea. Both he and his wife Ruth had enthusiasm and drive. They spearheaded a community meeting on March 23, 1965. It was in the two room school house in Quartzsite. Forty-four people attended. It was the beginning of "something big". It became the Quartzsite Improvement Association known world-wide as the QIA.

The QIA was incorporated May 3, 1965. Glen Fulton was the first president, and he served on and off for seven years. The two room school was a temporary meeting place.

In 1966, the QIA completed the TV booster station on Guadalupe mountain and three channels were available in Quartzsite.

Soon, land was donated and a building started to take shape.

The first Pow Wow Gem & Mineral Show was held February 9 - 13, 1967 at the old school house and grounds. It was a great success.

Since the QIA was the only incorporated organization in town, the BLM turned the Quartzsite cemetery and Hi Jolly Monument over to them. The transfer was finalized in 1971.

In December 1969, the original QIA building burnt to the ground. It was then learned that the insurance had not been paid on the building. The debris was soon cleared and a new building rose. With a few additions, it's the same building we use today.

The QIA has always been for the betterment of the Quartzsite community. It started the first medical center, the first fire house, and the first library. It donated playground equipment to the school and uniforms for the ball team. We donated computers to the library. Our bingo fund is used for scholarships for Quartzsite students going on to higher education. We help support many other local organizations

From October to April the QIA is the place to have fun, meet new friends and enjoy the warm winter weather. Quartzsite also boasts the worlds largest flea market.

If you like rustic living , you can park on the BLM land for up to six months for a small fee. If you like all the conveniences of home, there are many nice RV parks in the area. Come on down and spend a winter in Quartzsite . You won't be bored!

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