History
The historic North Central neighborhood is a verdant green oasis at the heart of our desert city. It is an area known for its equestrian history, the Murphy Bridle Path, large irrigated lots, historic homes and consistently excelling schools. The neighborhood is within the award winning Madison School District and near Brophy College Preparatory, Xavier College Preparatory and Central High School. The streetscape of tree-lined Central Avenue and the Murphy Bridle Path are listed on both the State and National Register of Historic Places. The olive trees lining Central Avenue are more than one-hundred-years old.
Stewardship of this neighborhood extends back to valley developer William J. Murphy in the late 1800s. Mr. Murphy established this area, Orangewood, planted trees and extended irrigation. Today you can still see the old Murphy home west of Central Avenue on Orangewood.
The area was later championed by the Horse Lovers Club. The club is responsible for our neighborhood landmark, the gateway with iron horse head and horseshoe located at Bethany Home Road and Central Avenue.
Help Us Beautify North Central Phoenix
Please join us in our campaign to beautify North Central. The NCPHA has protected North Central for over 40 years. With your help, we can retain that beauty together.