History of the Property 

178 W Boston St Chandler, AZ 85225

This story was shared by John Dudding, the grandson of the original owner and builder, offering a personal glimpse into the history of the home and the family who created it.

John’s grandfather, Lenford Calley, built all three structures on the property by hand. The main house, along with two smaller homes, reflects both his craftsmanship and the needs of the time. The smaller houses were used as rental properties for Air Force personnel stationed at Williams Air Force Base, during a period when housing was in short supply.

A photograph provided by John (shown below, right image) features Lenford Calley with his daughter, Vivian Maxine, seated on the porch, dating back to the early 1940s. Vivian was the younger of two daughters; her sister was Billie Lenice. Their names—Billie and Vivian—can still be seen inscribed in the concrete of the front porch. A second photograph (shown below, left image) features Lenford sitting on the porch with both daughters.

The construction of the main house includes a unique and personal detail: each block contains two oil cans embedded within it. Lenford would return home from work each day and make as many bricks as he could by hand, using oil cans to form the hollow centers. This resourceful technique remains a lasting signature of his dedication and ingenuity.

Together, these details tell the story of not just a house, but a family legacy built with care, persistence, and creativity.