February 29, 2016 / Modified mar 1, 2016 10:12 a.m.

Iconic 'A' West of Downtown Tucson Marks Centennial

Construction of letter on Sentinel Peak began in 1914 and ended in 1916.

Historic "A" in 1916 This is the first-known photograph of the finished "A" on Sentinel Peak. Photo Courtesy of UA Special Collections.
UA Special Collections

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The University of Arizona celebrated a football victory over California's Pomona College on Thanksgiving Day in 1914.

That led to the construction of the giant letter that's been a popular landmark ever since.

A civil engineering student, who was also a member of the football team, suggested constructing the A on Sentinel Peak.

Dozens of students and staff members joined him. They finished the project by whitewashing the rock and mortar combination on March 4, 1916.

Since then, the A has been a memorable symbols for countless students, visitors and residents.

Terry Ruiz was born and raised in Tucson and while she didn't know the A was finished 100 years ago, the project is dear to her heart.

"The A has been a place that we've always come to and brought our kids. I've come here since I was really, really young," Ruiz said.

"When we leave town and then we're on our way home, I know I'm home once I see the A."

According to information from the university, the rock, mortar and water were taken to Sentinel Peak by six-horse teams, and the total cost of the transportation, materials and equipment was $397.

Since it was finished, "A Mountain" has become a common name for Sentinel Peak.

We'd like to know what the "A" means to you. Join the conversation on Twitter or Facebook with #SentinelPeakA

A-CloudyDay The "A" on Sentinel Peak was completed in 1916 and has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in Southern Arizona.
Tony Paniagua, AZPM
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