Carlos Montezuma was born in 1865. His Yavapai name was Wassaja, which means ‘to signal or beckon’. He attended medical school in Chicago and earned his M.D. in 1889. Dr. Montezuma is traditionally known as the first American Indian Medical Doctor.

Dr. Montezuma, a founding member of the Society of American Indians, published his own newsletter called “Wassaja” and fought for Indian Rights. After discovering he had an incurable illness, he returned home. He died on January 13, 1923 at the age of 58. His eternal resting place is here at Fort McDowell.

Contact Us

In emergency situations always call 9-1-1. For non-emergency situations you can reach the Wassaja Memorial Health Center at 480-789-7890.