Historical society asks Sierra Vista to dedicate Fabb Avenue site as Henry Jones Legacy Park

Elizabeth Rosette, the city's public information officer who introduced the request in her role as vice president of the Sierra Vista Historical Society, asked the Sierra Vista City Council to dedicate the Fabb Avenue property as Henry Jones Legacy Park in recognition of Henry Jones's service as a Buffalo Soldier and his community role as an unofficial night watchman in the West End.

Rosette told the council Jones joined the U.S. Army in 1911, arrived at Fort Huachuca in 1913, served with the 10th Cavalry and later with the 93rd Infantry Regiment in France during World War I, and returned to the area where he continued service until Fort Huachuca was deactivated in 1947. "He became the unofficial night watchman in the West End," Rosette said, adding that his family hosted early Catholic services and helped found Saint Andrew's the Apostle Church.

Rosette presented the nomination with the support of Jones's descendants, including his granddaughter Marta Messmer, who attended and told the council personal memories of Jones patrolling the neighborhood and later doing security work. Rosette said the nomination also carried the support of Father Adolf, Demetria Warren of the Southwest Association of Buffalo Soldiers, the Parks and Recreation Commission, Director Wilson and City Manager Chuck Petusek.

Council members responded with praise and suggestions for ways to honor Jones's legacy, including discussion of a statue or relocating an existing Buffalo Soldier statue to the park. Council members noted the importance of recognizing the contributions of the West End community and of honoring the diversity of Sierra Vista's history. The transcript records the presentation and supportive council remarks but does not show a formal council vote or final decision on park naming within the recorded portion.