Arizona achieved statehood in 1912 and in 1919 the Sossaman Farm was established. In the time that they have lived and worked on the land, the Sossaman family has also left their mark on Queen Creek itself. The Sossaman women have played their part too, always being deeply involved in the community, the school, and even running businesses. Steve Sossaman is part of the 4th generation of Sossamans to take over the farm operations, and his wife, Chris continues the work of many before her.
She met her husband for the first time on the school bus in 6th grade. He was a bit older but always saved her a seat. Years later they would begin dating and eventually marry and have three daughters. Originally from Scottsdale, Chris's grandfather bought a citrus grove in Queen Creek and her family moved into the house on the property. She discovered a tight-knit community filled with farming families like the Powers, Ellsworths, and Barneys.
Farming is not all that the family is involved in. Chris herself is a local purveyor of loose-leaf teas. She has always had a passion for tea and runs a small business called Tea Royalty. She even conducts public speaking and does consulting using her 25-year knowledge on the subject. Her beautifully blended teas can be bought at the Queen Creek Olive Mill, Hayden Flour Mill, and Steadfast Farm, just to name a few. tearoyalty.com.