
Two immigrants from Germany, George Pusch and Johann Zellweger, arrived in Arizona in 1874 and established the Steam Pump Ranch, taking its name from the steam engine they used to pump water for irrigation and people & animals. Because of the water the Ranch also became an important waypoint for travelers.
If you are interested in learning more, check out this page at the Oro Valley Historical Society.
The City of Oro Valley now owns the site and is developing it as an event location and learning center.