Gilbert received the distinction in 2002 of being named the fastest growing community in the nation; a far cry from its humble beginning one hundred years earlier! In 1902, when the Arizona Eastern Railway was asking for donations of right of way in order to establish a rail line between Phoenix and Florence, a rail siding was established on property owned by William "Bobby" Gilbert. It was this siding and the town that sprung up around it that eventually became what is now known as Gilbert. In 1920, the town's 500 citizens incorporated, and Gilbert was officially born. It is now 76 square miles in size with a population of 107,000. Located 8 miles southeast of downtown Phoenix, it has managed to preserve its small-town atmosphere while promoting high-tech industry and progressive planning for the future. Its focuses include raising a family, quality education, leisure activities and a successful business community.

There are limitless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and activity in Gilbert. Community lakes and playgrounds in the beautiful Freestone and Crossroads Parks afford space for family leisure, and a children's railroad in Freestone Park adds to its attraction. Miles of canal banks are maintained by the Salt River Project and the Roosevelt Conservation District for walking, running, biking and horseback riding. The town also maintains hiking and equestrian trails for the enjoyment of its citizens. Four golf courses are open for play in Gilbert and over 25 are available within a 15 minute drive.

Culture is a way of life here. Gilbert Fine Arts Association, best known for its annual musical productions, also provides scholarships to talented young people, sponsors various live performances and art shows and provides workshops through its Theatrical Academy for Youth. The Gilbert Promotional Corporation sponsors the annual Gilbert Days, a celebration of the paving of Gilbert road in downtown Gilbert. The three day celebration features one of the largest parades in the state, IPRA Rodeo action with some of the finest contestants in the region, along with a carnival and exhibitors area. Gilbert also has the honor of playing host to one of the ten largest rodeos in the country each November.

Gilbert Public Schools enjoy a reputation for quality and excellence, combining academics, cultural expression and athletic achievement. Achievement test scores at elementary, junior high and senior high levels have been number one in the east Valley for years, and exceed both national and state averages.

The average age of Gilbert's residents is 29 years and they have the highest median household income in the area. A village concept of planned communities here includes parks, horse trails, fishing, boating and local business services, all within walking distance. Housing ranges from gated communities to horse properties, where residents can often be seen taking their horses out for morning rides before work.

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