Mary Velasquez Riley played a crucial role in transforming the White Mountain Apaches into a recognized entrepreneurial force. Her dedication and leadership significantly contributed to the economic development of the tribe, making it one of the most progressive Native American communities in the United States.
In December 1965, Mary stood proudly with fellow members of the White Mountain Apache tribe in Washington, D.C., as they celebrated the lighting of the national Christmas tree. This marked the first time a Native American tribe had donated a tree for this significant event. Born on December 24, 1908, at Fort Apache, Mary had a deep connection to both her community and its traditions.
Growing up, Mary learned the value of hard work early on. Her mother was of Apache descent, while her father was a Mexican rancher who contributed produce to Fort Apache. As a child, Mary helped manage the family farm, balancing her responsibilities with her education until she had to leave school at a young age to care for family members during the 1918 influenza epidemic. Despite these challenges, she developed a keen interest in local and national affairs, often sitting with her father as he read the newspaper.
Mary’s leadership journey began when she became the first woman elected to the White Mountain Apache Tribal Council in 1958. She was active in various committees, including health, education, and welfare, and took her advocacy to both the Arizona Legislature and Congress. Her efforts were pivotal in establishing the Fort Apache Timber Company (FATCO) in 1962. This initiative aimed to promote economic development through sustainable utilization of tribal timber resources, providing business training and employment opportunities for tribe members. Today, FATCO remains operational, continuing to contribute to the local economy.
Mary’s vision extended to the Alchesay-Williams Creek National Fish Hatchery, where she played an instrumental role in revitalizing local fish populations, including brown and rainbow trout. This hatchery not only helped restock lakes with these species but also supported the preservation of threatened or endangered fish.
Under her guidance, the tribe capitalized on its natural resources to create tourism opportunities. In 1967, it was reported that more than one-third of all fishing in Arizona occurred within the reservation, which encompasses approximately half of the state’s trout streams. The tribe developed recreational lakes and campsites, enhancing the appeal of the area for visitors.
In addition to these ventures, Mary was a driving force behind the development of Sunrise Park Resort near Greer. This facility has become a popular year-round destination for skiing, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities, reflecting the tribe’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Mary’s commitment to education led to the establishment of a high school on the reservation, ensuring that future generations would have access to learning opportunities. Throughout her 20 years on the council, Mary exemplified the hard-working and industrious nature of her people, encouraging them to embrace economic competition rather than retreating into obscurity.
As she stated in a 1977 interview, “We’re living in a different world now.” This perspective underscored her belief in progress and adaptation. After retiring from public service in 1978, her contributions were recognized by the state of Arizona in 1984 for her transformative impact on the White Mountain Apaches.
Mary passed away on October 5, 1987, and is buried in the Fort Apache Cemetery beside her husband, Peter Kessay Riley. In 1988, she was posthumously inducted into the Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame, honoring her legacy as a pioneering figure in both her community and the state.
During that notable Christmas event in 1965, then Indian Commissioner Phileo Nash remarked on the White Mountain Apaches’ remarkable development, stating, “This is a tribe that knows what it is doing.” Mary Riley’s extensive contributions played a significant role in establishing the White Mountain Apaches as a formidable entrepreneurial entity, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. Today, the Mary V. Riley Building on the reservation houses the tribal education department, further cementing her impact on future generations.
