Utah officials launch emergency efforts to save a vandalized 1,000-year-old pictograph in American Fork Canyon. The rock art, from the Fremont culture, was defaced with paint pens and lipstick this summer — prompting the state to bring in a world-renowned conservator to assess damage and try to restore the site. The incident underscores the cultural and historical significance of such archaeological sites and the urgent need to protect them for future generations.

The historic Centennial House at the top of Park City’s Main Street has entered its reconstruction phase after more than two decades of vacancy and structural decline. Crews are now deconstructing the building and salvaging historic materials as part of a city-approved plan to rebuild it on its original footprint. The 18-month project will cause traffic impacts on upper Main Street due to the tight construction zone. Once complete, the restored home will retain its historic character while incorporating modern systems and safety improvements.

The article features a photo gallery that compares historic images of St. George with present-day views, highlighting how much the city has changed over the decades. Many old buildings are gone or have been transformed, but the comparison offers a nostalgic glimpse of the city’s past and preserves memories of what the community once looked like.

The Park Record argues that major changes are needed in Park City, Utah — from relocating City Hall, redesigning Main Street into a pedestrian-friendly historic promenade, to tightening up short-term-rental regulations and reshaping housing and transit planning — to keep community character intact and make the town more livable for residents again.

Salt Lake City’s Look Look Tattoo has opened the city’s only tattoo museum, preserving decades of Utah tattoo history. The collection—featuring vintage flash art, early equipment, photos, letters, and memorabilia—documents a largely undocumented part of the state’s cultural heritage. As the shop moves into a larger Central 9th space, the expanded museum will showcase even more artifacts, ensuring the stories of Utah’s early tattoo artists are preserved and shared with the public.

Seven life-sized snow-globe installations created by Utah artists now line Historic Main Street as part of the annual Snow Globe Art Stroll. The globes — all based on the “Winter Wonderland” theme — offer interactive touches like hidden snowflakes to discover, QR codes with artist info, and maps showing their locations.

Three historic structures on Brigham City’s Main Street (between Forest Street and 100 South) received up to $50,000 each to rehabilitate their interiors for commercial and residential use, part of a statewide effort to revitalize downtowns while preserving heritage architecture.

Thanks to a series of redevelopment grants, previously vacant buildings along Commercial Street in Morgan, Utah, have been rehabilitated and repurposed — turning a quiet, underused downtown corridor into a lively main street with new businesses and renewed activity. Part of the revitalization includes a holiday-themed “Christmas on Commercial Street” event: local shops host decorated Christmas trees that will be auctioned off, with proceeds helping families in need across the community.

Historic Park City transforms into a winter wonderland in December with holiday decorations, art installations, and community events. Main Street is adorned with life-sized snow globes, festive window displays, and lights, and the Historic Park City Alliance has organized a month-long celebration including art strolls, local shopping nights, live performances, and family-friendly activities to bring people together and highlight the town’s historic charm.

The Park Record argues that major changes are needed in Park City, Utah — from relocating City Hall, redesigning Main Street into a pedestrian-friendly historic promenade, to tightening up short-term-rental regulations and reshaping housing and transit planning — to keep community character intact and make the town more livable for residents again.

WWII-era buildings are returning home to Historic Wendover Airfield
Two wooden buildings — originally part of Wendover Air Force Base during World War II — have been donated by W.W. Clyde Company and transported back to Wendover after decades in Springville. Once there, they’ll become part of the airfield museum’s preservation efforts, helping keep alive the history of Utah’s significant wartime past.

A historic Denver & Rio Grande Western locomotive has returned to Utah after years in South Dakota, arriving at Ogden’s Union Station for preservation and potential restoration. The engine — D&RGW No. 133, a 1965 EMD switcher — is now on loan to the Utah State Railroad Museum, where crews plan to restore its original appearance and evaluate whether it can eventually operate again. Its return marks a significant step in preserving Utah’s rail heritage, bringing home one of the region’s longtime working locomotives for public education and future display.

Two WWII-era buildings have been returned to Historic Wendover Airfield after nearly 75 years — thanks to Clyde Companies sending them back from their Springville yard. The framed structures, originally part of the WWII base, now preserved as a museum complex, were transported across the west desert and will be preserved at Wendover.

The Utah State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has awarded approximately $250,000 in its Round 2 “Rural Revive & Reside” grants, supporting historic building rehabilitations across five communities in Utah. These grants target underused or vacant historic downtown properties—like the 1892 Ericksen’s Meat and Grocery in Mount Pleasant, the 1914 Knudson Brothers’ Building in Brigham City, and the early 1900s North Sanpete Bank Building—and help convert them into mixed-use spaces with business frontage and housing units.

In Logan’s Island neighborhood, crews have started cutting down 17 towering ash trees — many over 100 years old — to make way for a critical waterline project along Canyon Road. Residents, who forwarded a petition with nearly 5,000 signatures, held a vigil to honor the trees they say gave the street its “fairytale” character. Project leaders say the route was chosen as the only viable option due to utility constraints, requiring the removals despite community backlash.

The iconic Roof Restaurant, housed in the historic Joseph Smith Memorial Building in downtown Salt Lake City, has reopened after a five-year closure for extensive seismic upgrades and restoration. The project preserved the building’s legacy as a dining landmark while modernizing its infrastructure, including consolidating two dining spaces into one and expanding capacity, including private rooms and a broader lunch service.

The Lehi Historical Society completed its 2025 slate of nine new historical markers—covering sites such as the Thomas R. Cutler Mansion, Jordan River Bridge, the Maryland Wanlass Hutchings home, and the 1983 flood site—to bring stories of community heritage into the public realm. Each bronze marker presents a small history lesson and will soon include a QR code linking to deeper content, encouraging residents and visitors to explore Lehi’s past through walking or biking tours.

The historic 87-year-old building at Tracy Aviary in Salt Lake City is slated for relocation to make way for a new year-round bird-show pavilion. The move aims to preserve the original structure — one of the aviary’s early builds — while allowing modern upgrades and expanded visitor experiences within the venue’s heritage setting.

The nonprofit Salt Lake Film Society has filed preliminary renovation plans for the nearly 100-year-old Tower Theatre (opened in 1928) in the 9th & 9th neighborhood, including restoring its original facade towers, preserving the main auditorium, and adding modern screening rooms and amenities. The project is still in a fundraising and design phase, with major renovations expected to wrap up later this decade.

A proposed seven-story, 113-unit apartment complex has been approved by the Salt Lake City Historic Landmarks Commission to wrap around the historic B’nai Israel Temple (built 1891) in downtown Salt Lake City. The project includes major conditions to protect the synagogue’s integrity—including maintaining its independence, preserving views, and ensuring any adjacent landscaping or development meets historic-sensitive design standards. The synagogue, one of the city’s oldest religious structures, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and plays a key role in Utah’s Jewish community's heritage. The approved project represents both an opportunity and a challenge: it could bring new investment to the area while testing how modern development can coexist with significant historic buildings.

The Tower Theatre — a 1928 movie house and one of Salt Lake City’s oldest film venues — has been closed for five years and is now entering an ambitious renovation phase. The nonprofit operator, the Salt Lake Film Society, submitted preliminary design drawings that aim to preserve its original main auditorium, restore parts of the castle-like facade, and introduce new features like multiple smaller screening rooms (micro-cinemas), a second-floor event space, a basement speakeasy, and an elevator for accessibility. Notable preservation efforts include re-revealing the building’s original masonry tower hidden beneath 1950s-era terracotta tile, digitally recreating a missing “west tower” for nighttime projection, and rebuilding the marquee to honor the theater’s historic character rather than mask it behind contemporary design.

In downtown Salt Lake City, the Utah Japantown Advocates are hosting a free poetry reading and workshop with multilingual poet Sawako Nakayasu on November 13 at the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple. The event ties into efforts to preserve the historic Japantown district—once home to a thriving Japanese-American community—and to deepen awareness of how cultural heritage remains alive amid change.

The 5-acre Lincoln Street campus of Rowland Hall—Utah’s oldest school, founded in 1867—is now on the market in Salt Lake City’s 9th & 9th neighborhood. The property, including a 1921 school building, is expected to attract developer interest, and the seller is open to a full sale or a development joint venture that respects the site’s historic character. Neighbors and preservation advocates strongly favor adaptive reuse—townhomes or renovations over high-rise apartments—to retain the architectural charm that makes the site special.

Rowland Hall—Utah’s oldest school—has placed its 1921 Lincoln Street campus near the 9th & 9th neighborhood in Salt Lake City on the market, unlocking approximately five acres for redevelopment. The seller is open to options that include preserving and renovating the existing historic building, or larger redevelopment such as townhomes, with concerns centered on maintaining the site’s historic character while allowing new uses.

The Japanese Church of Christ in downtown Salt Lake City uncovered a time capsule sealed in 1924, revealing artifacts that reflect the once-vibrant Japantown community. Items found include hand-sewn flags, bilingual newspapers (English and Japanese), Bibles, and the church’s articles of incorporation. The building is one of only two remaining structures from Utah’s historic Japantown, a neighborhood that once comprised about 90 Japanese-owned businesses but largely vanished amid urban redevelopment. Church leaders say the capsule underscores the importance of preserving this cultural legacy as downtown redevelopment presses in.

Japantown, Salt Lake City — once a vibrant Japanese-American neighborhood — is getting renewed attention from Salt Lake City officials with a roughly $11 million redesign plan focused on 100 South between 200 West and 300 West. Key elements include aligning cherry trees, installing specialty manhole covers and unique street lights with Japanese-inspired designs, reconfiguring sidewalks to support festivals like Nihon Matsuri and Obon, and installing a public mural that marks the area's cultural identity. City leaders emphasized the importance of acting now rather than waiting, stating they want tangible signs of commitment to Japantown’s future and to ensure the area's heritage is not lost amid broader downtown redevelopment.

Utah’s State Historic Preservation Office joined federal lawmakers in calling for updates to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, saying the current law’s vague language has created a “maze without a map” that delays infrastructure while offering limited protection to historic properties. The proposed changes aim to make the review process more “clear, reasonable and predictable,” according to Utah’s historic preservation officer Chris Merritt, while still safeguarding heritage sites.

Restoration work is advancing on Utah’s historic dance-hall landmark, the Elite Hall (built 1917), as a new addition on its east side nears readiness. The project aims to preserve the building’s original charm—including its rare spring-loaded dance floor—while expanding its community use.

In downtown Salt Lake City, the Japanese Church of Christ revealed the contents of a cast-iron time capsule sealed in its cornerstone 101 years ago. Inside were Bibles, Japanese and American flags, 1924-dated newspapers, and the church’s incorporation papers—artifacts that reflect the faith and resilience of Utah’s Japanese-American community. The building itself stands as one of the last remaining structures from the city’s historic Japantown and now faces mounting redevelopment pressures. The discovery underscores the urgent need to preserve cultural and architectural landmarks rooted in minority heritage.

A cast-iron time capsule sealed in the cornerstone of the Japanese Church of Christ 101 years earlier was opened in October 2025. Inside the watertight box were poignant artifacts: Bibles donated in 1906 and 1924, Japanese and American flags, newspapers from both Japan and the U.S. dated November 1924, and the church’s original articles of incorporation. The church sits near what was once Utah’s bustling Japantown and is one of the only remaining structures from that era in downtown Salt Lake City. The capsule’s discovery comes as the building faces preservation pressures amid nearby new development.

The steam locomotive Denver & Rio Grande Western No. 223—a rare narrow-gauge engine built in 1881—has been transferred from Ogden Union Station to the 223 Locomotive Foundation in Colorado, where it will undergo full operational restoration after over 30 years on static display in Ogden. The move marks a milestone in railroad preservation for Utah: the engine, one of only three surviving C-16 narrow-gauge locomotives, will once again roll under steam, preserving the heritage of the narrow-gauge era and restoring a key artifact of the Rocky Mountain railway legacy.

Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Ogden has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s National Fund for Sacred Places, one of only 30 faith-based sites nationwide to receive the honor this year. The funds will support restoration of the nearly 150-year-old church’s exterior masonry, windows, doors, and steeple—ensuring this landmark remains a vibrant part of the community rather than succumbing to aging and neglect.

The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Ogden was awarded a $100,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s National Fund for Sacred Places—one of only 30 faith-based sites nationwide selected this year. The funds will be used to preserve the church’s architecture, including exterior masonry, windows and doors, and the steeple/bell tower, safeguarding the nearly 150-year-old landmark for future generations.

The Utah State Historic Preservation Office’s cemetery program, led by Amy Barry, is actively restoring historic headstones across the state. The program has cleaned, leveled, and repaired hundreds of gravestones—including an 1855 stone for Territorial Supreme Court judge Leonidas Shaver—with the aim of preserving the personal stories and heritage each marker represents.

The Arts & Historic District Alliance of St. George — a coalition of artists, business owners, cultural organizations and community leaders in downtown St. George — is working to merge historic preservation with creative placemaking.

Their mission: to revitalize the historic corridor by celebrating its architectural past while activating it with art, music, murals, events and creative enterprises. Rather than preserving history as static, the alliance is treating heritage buildings and spaces as dynamic settings for community culture and commerce.

Lehi recently dedicated a historical marker celebrating a home with exceptional architecture—one that stands out in form, detail, and craftsmanship. The marker highlights the house’s style, its notable builder or architect, and its place in the community’s architectural heritage. By publicly recognizing the house, the city affirms its commitment to preserving architectural treasures and raising awareness of local historic character.

Lehi recently dedicated a historical marker celebrating a home with exceptional architecture—one that stands out in form, detail, and craftsmanship. The marker highlights the house’s style, its notable builder or architect, and its place in the community’s architectural heritage.

By publicly recognizing the house, the city affirms its commitment to preserving architectural treasures and raising awareness of local historic character.

Salt Lake City’s City Council unanimously approved landmark status for two Neoclassical apartment buildings—Sampson Flats and Altadena Apartments—built in 1906. Already on the National Register, the new local designation gives them stronger protections against demolition or incompatible alterations amid growing downtown development pressures.

The Springville City Council has approved buying the former seminary building at 415 S. 200 E for $400,000, securing a historic easement that protects its exterior design. The structure, built in 1928 and part of the original high school campus, is considered architecturally significant—it’s by Claude Ashworth, who also designed nearby campus buildings. During the due-diligence period, the city will inspect the interior systems (electrical, plumbing, structural) and ensure any ADA upgrades preserve the building’s historic character.

Salt Lake City’s City Council has unanimously approved local landmark status for the Sampson Flats and Altadena Apartments, both constructed in 1906. While these buildings have been on the National Register since 2010, the new local designation offers stronger protections—especially important as development pressure grows in the Central City neighborhood.

Residents of the 17-unit complex rallied together, regardless of background or belief, to support the designation. The council also enacted rules that help safeguard neighboring historic structures from overly tall development next door.

Salt Lake City’s City Council unanimously designated the Sampson Flats and Altadena Apartments—built in 1906—as local historic landmarks. These Neoclassical-style walk-ups house 17 residential units and sit near 300 South and 300 East in the Central City neighborhood.

Once only on the National Register (since 2010) without protection, the new local landmark designation provides these buildings with much-needed protection against incompatible development, especially as downtown growth pressures intensify. Residents had rallied to preserve them amid proposed rezoning, and the council’s vote carries weight by allowing guidelines to curb nearby high-rise encroachment.

After nearly 15 years, The Leonardo Museum has permanently closed due to failing infrastructure in its 61-year-old city-owned building. The museum, known for blending science, art, and innovation, cited irreparable issues with elevators, escalators, and plumbing. Salt Lake City officials announced the space will transition to administrative offices while maintaining a cultural presence on the ground floor.

Opened in 2011 after years of fundraising and delays, The Leonardo hosted exhibits exploring creativity and technology — from Ute Mountain Ute artwork to interactive science installations. Though its closure marks the end of a creative era for downtown Salt Lake, the museum’s legacy in sparking curiosity and preservation of ideas will endure.

St. George city officials are moving forward with a plan to nominate the city’s downtown area for the National Register of Historic Places. If approved, about 650 qualifying properties could receive state and federal tax credits of up to 40% for restoring historic structures to their original form.

The effort, supported by the St. George Historic Preservation Commission and the Utah State Historic Preservation Office, aims to protect the city’s architectural heritage while offering financial incentives for preservation. Officials emphasize that participation is voluntary and won’t affect property taxes.

Smithfield’s Historic Preservation Commission is restoring the 1883 Douglas General Mercantile, the town’s oldest surviving commercial building, into a museum. Built by Scottish immigrant William M. Douglas, the store once supplied pioneer families, housed community dances, and even served as a movie hall. Later used as the American Legion Hall, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Volunteers and contractors have been working to restore the stone-and-brick building inside and out, uncovering historic photos and artifacts along the way. When finished, the museum will showcase Smithfield’s pioneer heritage, turning the mercantile into a space for locals and visitors to connect with the town’s past.

The Emery Town Historic Church continues its restoration thanks to a recent $5,000 donation from Rocky Mountain Power. Over the past few years, grants and community support have funded major improvements, including stabilizing the foundation with helical piers, installing new HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, leveling floors, and adding a new roof. The church has also been resheeted, repainted its original milk-white color, and now has framed kitchen and bathroom spaces. Window and trim work is currently underway, with the Emery Town Heritage Council leading efforts to preserve this landmark for future generations.

The Murray Theater, first opened in 1938 and once home to premieres of The Wizard of Oz and Gone with the Wind, has been restored and reopened after years of disrepair. Closed since 2017, the Art Deco landmark underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation funded by Salt Lake County and completed with historic details inspired by old photos and community memories. Crews restored the marquee, lobby, and ceiling while modernizing the stage and seating, blending vintage character with new performance capabilities.

Now featuring 333 seats, an orchestral lift, and updated backstage spaces, the theater will host concerts, films, and community events. Its revival preserves a beloved piece of Murray’s cultural heritage, ensuring the theater once again serves as a gathering place for arts and entertainment.

Salt Lake County has finalized plans for a sweeping $949M–$1.4B renovation of three downtown cultural landmarks: Abravanel Hall, the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (UMOCA), and the Salt Palace Convention Center. Work will begin with planning in 2025, design and bidding through 2026, and demolition starting February 2027. Full construction is expected from late 2028 through 2030.

Preservation is central to the project. Plans call for reusing brick and original elements of Abravanel Hall while upgrading backstage and performer spaces. UMOCA will be rebuilt with seven galleries, a 150-seat auditorium, artist studios, and education areas, maintaining professional art standards while reducing its overall footprint. The Salt Palace will see expanded ballrooms and modernized support spaces.

Architects MHTN, Sparano + Mooney, Allied Works, and Populous will lead the redesign, with renderings expected by late 2026. County leaders emphasize that the renovations will blend modernization with preservation, ensuring these cultural landmarks remain anchors of Salt Lake City’s civic and historic fabric.

Friends of Ski Mountain Mining History is racing to stabilize Park City’s historic mines, where decades of neglect threaten both safety and heritage. Recent projects include sealing the Thaynes Mine shaft—once home to the short-lived “Skier Subway”—and repairing the Silver King Coalition Mine. After the Daly West Mine collapse in 2015, the urgency of preservation became clear.

With support from Utah’s Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program, engineers are closing dangerous shafts using specialized, water-safe materials to protect both structures and Park City’s drinking supply. Above ground, crews are restoring fragile buildings, replacing vandalized features, and adding security. The long-term goal is to preserve these landmarks not just as relics, but as public heritage sites, opening them to guided tours that tell the story of Park City’s mining past and the effort to save it.

In Delta, Utah, the Topaz Museum continues its mission to preserve the history of the Topaz Internment Camp, where thousands of Japanese Americans were unjustly incarcerated during World War II. The camp, which opened in 1942, once held families uprooted from California and other states under the guise of “national security.”

The museum began in 1982, when teacher Jane Beckwith assigned her students to interview locals connected to Topaz. Community members shared stories, artifacts, and personal items, sparking a grassroots effort that grew into a multi-million-dollar project. After decades of fundraising and advocacy, the 8,000-square-foot museum opened in 2017, with exhibits highlighting the loss of civil rights and the resilience of those who lived there.

Through ongoing preservation work, the Topaz Museum ensures that this difficult chapter of history is remembered, honoring those who endured it and educating future generations about the importance of protecting civil liberties.

The missing “Centennial” sign from the historic Centennial House has been quietly returned, just days after its theft sparked community concern. PJ Builders, leading the home’s restoration, thanked locals for helping recover the piece of Park City history.

The sign will once again be incorporated into the Centennial House reconstruction, adding yet another chapter to the building’s storied past. “The Centennial Building will keep her secrets, and so will we,” the builders noted, emphasizing the importance of preserving original features in the project.

PARK CITY — The iconic “The Centennial” sign has been stolen from the historic Centennial House on Main Street during reconstruction. The sign, once above the second-story balcony, was set to be restored and incorporated into the home’s renovation.

“This isn’t just wood and paint — it’s part of Park City’s history,” said Pete Olson of PJ Builders, who is overseeing the restoration of the 1907 home. He urged the community to help return the missing artifact so it can remain part of the building’s legacy.

PARK CITY — The iconic “Centennial” sign has been stolen from the historic Centennial House on Main Street, just months after redevelopment plans were approved. Built in the early 1900s as a boarding house, the structure is now slated for careful deconstruction and restoration.

PJ Builders, leading the project, said the theft is “not just a loss to the new homeowners, but to the entire Park City community.” The sign had hung above the entrance for more than 30 years and was set to be incorporated into the home’s restoration. Crews and local preservationists are asking for its safe return, calling the piece “too important to be lost.”

For more than 50 years, Holladay Bank & Trust has been a community cornerstone, founded in 1974 by Ronald N. Spratling Jr. to serve neighbors overlooked by larger institutions. Operating first out of a trailer before moving into its mid-century modern headquarters, the bank became known for its personal service, Saturday hours, and role in strengthening Holladay’s small-town identity.

This summer, the one-branch bank entered a new chapter as it was acquired by Redemption Holding Co., becoming the West’s first Black-owned bank. Under the continued leadership of Spratling’s daughter, Katie, the institution’s legacy of community service and preservation of local trust endures. Former Preservation Utah director David Amott reflected that visits to the bank remain part of the region’s living history — proof that small places can have lasting impact.

Six historic homes built between 1869 and 1914 will open for the public during the Cache Valley Historic Home Tour on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The self-guided tour, which includes homes in Logan and Wellsville, highlights a range of styles from Queen Anne to Craftsman bungalows and showcases original details like gingerbread woodwork, cast iron fireplaces, and locally quarried stone. A bonus stop includes the recently restored 1911 Federal Building in Logan, now home to the Cache DUP Museum.

Organized by the Cache Valley Historical Society and Visitors Bureau, the event not only celebrates the region’s architectural heritage but also funds preservation-related initiatives, including a scholarship for Utah State University students researching local history and transportation for school children to visit the American West Heritage Center. Tickets are $15 and available at each home the day of the tour.

As the Monroe Canyon Fire nears full containment after burning over 73,000 acres, crews are beginning post-fire recovery efforts. Among these steps is the removal of heat-resistant shielding that was draped over historic wooden buildings like the Koosharem Guard Station to protect them from flames. The U.S. Forest Service confirmed that these preservation measures were successful, ensuring the survival of important cultural landmarks in Fishlake National Forest. With evacuations lifted in several areas and wildlife already returning, officials emphasized that safeguarding these historic sites was as vital as restoring the landscape, allowing future generations to continue experiencing the region’s heritage.

The legendary Mormon Meteor III, a 1937 land-speed racer built for Ab Jenkins, will soon find a permanent home at the new Museum of Utah, opening June 2026 on the Capitol grounds. Famous for setting endurance records on the Bonneville Salt Flats, the car is credited with putting Utah on the map as a hub for speed racing. It will headline the museum’s “Inspiring Utah” gallery alongside artifacts like Orson Pratt’s telescope, materials from the Topaz Internment Camp, and memorabilia from the 2002 Winter Olympics. The museum, supported by donations including $10 million from Rio Tinto Kennecott, aims to preserve and share Utah’s cultural and historic legacy for future generations.

Corner Station Deli & Co-Op in Fairview has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Backing Historic Small Restaurants program, the only Utah recipient this year. Housed in a century-old former service station, the deli plans to use the funds for facade improvements to maintain its historic character while continuing to serve as a community hub. Owners Jason and Sarah Mardell see the project as part of revitalizing Main Street and preserving Fairview’s heritage, ensuring the landmark remains a gathering place for food, art, and local business for years to come.

Fairview’s Corner Station Deli, housed in a 1920s service station that has served many roles over the past century, has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Owners Sarah and Jason Mardell plan to use the funds to restore the building’s exterior and signage, ensuring its quirky historic charm endures. Once a blacksmith shop, storage space, and gift store, the building now thrives as a family-run deli beloved by locals—including Fairview’s mayor—and visitors alike. For the Mardells, preserving the structure is as important as serving sandwiches: “We see a lot of buildings crumble or disappear. This one has history, and we’d like to keep it that way.”

Park City will open a new 7.8-mile Historic Mine Route in 2026, designed to connect trails and landmarks from the city’s silver mining past. Starting at the Park City Museum, the loop will guide hikers and bikers past sites like the Silver King Coalition Mine and Empire Canyon’s Judge Mine office, using interpretive signs and a GPS-enabled app with stories and historic photos. Funded through multiple grants, the project is led by Friends of Ski Mountain Mining History and will officially debut on Miners Day 2026, blending recreation with preservation of Park City’s mining legacy.

Spring City citizens and preservation groups have filed a lawsuit against the City Council, arguing new projects and density plans threaten the town’s National Register status and pioneer heritage. Known for its 19th-century homes and chapel, the community fears unchecked growth will erase its historic character. Residents call it a fight for “the soul of Spring City.”

After more than 40 years, Snowland in Fairview Canyon is reopening under the non-profit Snowland Foundation, preserving a beloved community slope first opened in 1967. Backed by a $1 million state grant and over $200,000 in donations, the project restored historic features like the base cabin and created new improvements, including expanded parking and free lift access for two seasons.

The National Park Service (NPS) was created 109 years ago, when President Woodrow Wilson signed the Organic Act of 1916, establishing a unified system to protect historic sites, landscapes, and wildlife. Before this act, parks like Yellowstone (1872) were managed piecemeal by superintendents and Army troops who fought to guard them from poachers and loggers.

By the early 1900s, more national parks and monuments were designated, including Utah’s Natural Bridges National Monument (1908), followed by Hovenweep (1923), Arches (1929), and Canyonlands (1964). Together, these sites preserved both natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Today, the NPS manages more than 430 parks and historic places, welcoming 332 million visitors in 2024. Yet funding challenges—like the recent loss of over $260 million in conservation and staffing resources—threaten the ability to sustain this preservation mission into the future.

The Salt Lake Plaza Hotel, built in the early 1970s, will close November 1 and be demolished soon after, according to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Rising maintenance costs were cited as the reason for closure. Initially, the site will serve as parking during the Salt Lake Temple open house in 2027, with long-term plans still undecided. While the demolition will include recycling materials where possible, the loss of this downtown landmark underscores the growing challenges of preserving mid-century modern structures in Utah.

The Provo Community Congregational United Church of Christ, a 130-year-old landmark downtown, has received a matching grant through Provo City’s Certified Local Government program to support its Cornerstone Restoration Project. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2022, the church blends Spanish Colonial Revival and mid-century modern styles and serves as both a place of worship and a community hub. The grant will help repair deteriorating stucco, stabilize historic facades, and expand the site into a center for arts, music, education, and service. To unlock the funds, the church is launching a community campaign to raise the matching amount needed for this critical preservation effort.

The century-old Newhouse Hotel, a landmark in Helper’s historic district, has unveiled the Newhouse Hotel Saloon & Gallery during the Helper Arts Festival weekend. Fully restored and reopened in September 2024, the building now offers nine guest rooms and a vibrant gallery space showcasing regional artists, including David Richey Johnsen, Doug Barlow, and Jason Huntzinger. The restoration, led by owner Gary DeVincent with contributions from local craftsmen, preserves the building’s historic character while creating a modern community gathering space. The gallery will host exhibitions, workshops, and private events, connecting visitors with Helper’s cultural and artistic heritage.

A devastating Main Street fire destroyed four historic Salt Lake City businesses and caused $5 million in damage. Fire crews worked through the night, using drones for critical aerial views to target hotspots and prevent further loss. Division Chief Bob Silverthorne noted the risks posed by the age and materials of the century-old buildings, which added both challenges and hazards. While thankful there were no civilian casualties, he acknowledged the loss of significant historic architecture. He said the event will serve as a learning experience for future efforts to protect such structures.

A devastating fire Monday night destroyed three historic downtown Salt Lake City bars—White Horse, Whiskey Street, and London Belle—along with the Mexican restaurant Los Tapatios, all housed in 1920s-era buildings central to the city’s nightlife. The Downtown Alliance said the property owners intend to rebuild, preserving the area’s historic character. Three firefighters suffered minor injuries while battling the blaze. City leaders pledged economic and worker support to help affected businesses and employees recover.

A massive fire on Salt Lake City’s historic Main Street caused an estimated $5 million in damage, injuring three firefighters but sparing all workers and patrons. The blaze began in the kitchen of London Belle and quickly spread through hidden voids in the century-old structures, which also housed Eva’s, White Horse, Los Tapatios, and Whiskey Street. Fire crews used drones to locate hotspots, while officials noted the added hazards from aged building materials. Mayor Erin Mendenhall called the businesses “the heart of downtown” and pledged city support for rebuilding and preserving the historic streetscape.

The massive fire that destroyed Los Tapatios Taco Grill, White Horse, Whiskey Street, and London Belle consumed buildings over a century old, dating to the 1920s. Preservation Utah Executive Director Brandy Strand noted these structures were central to downtown’s history, once part of the early 1900s “Whiskey Street” district and built with materials that can’t be replicated. Beyond their architecture, these buildings helped define the culture of downtown Salt Lake City, hosting vibrant nightlife and programs like Open Streets. Strand and community members hope rebuilding efforts preserve the charm and history that made this block a beloved gathering place.

A devastating fire destroyed century-old buildings in downtown Salt Lake City, erasing a stretch of Main Street history dating back to the 1910s. Brandy Strand, executive director of Preservation Utah, said the loss is profound: “We have the stories and photos, but you can’t touch that history anymore.” Originally home to establishments like the Rotisserie Inn and the Petroleum Club, these legacy-built structures were central to the city’s culture and its Open Streets program. Strand emphasized that while the community can rebuild, the craftsmanship and materials of the originals cannot be replicated.

A massive three-alarm fire broke out Monday night at the London Belle restaurant on Main Street in downtown Salt Lake City, endangering nearby historic structures. About 60 firefighters battled the blaze, which caused significant damage to at least two buildings and potential smoke or water damage to others. While all civilians were safely evacuated, one firefighter sustained minor injuries. Due to structural collapse, crews fought the fire defensively. The cause remains under investigation, raising concerns about the vulnerability of Main Street’s historic architecture to fire and other emergencies.

Springdale’s Pioneer Cemetery and 1935 town jail have been added to the National Register of Historic Places. The cemetery, established in 1862, preserves the town’s pioneer heritage, while the small sandstone jail, built by Civilian Conservation Corps workers, remains a unique example of Depression-era park architecture. The designation recognizes their historical significance and opens doors for preservation grants to protect these important community landmarks.

Two Draper eateries, Montauk Bistro and The Pines, serve fine dining inside meticulously preserved 19th-century pioneer homes. Montauk Bistro operates in the historic 1880 Nielsen-Rideout Home, restored by owners Bryan and Phayvanh Lang to highlight its original woodwork, leaded glass windows, and hardwood floors. The Pines, formerly The Charleston, occupies the 1878 Zemira Draper–Joshua Terry Home, a brick landmark rich with local history. Co-owners Greg Castro and Chef Marco Silva are maintaining the home’s historic charm while expanding its dining offerings. Both restaurants honor Draper’s past by blending culinary excellence with architectural preservation.

The Provo Community Congregational United Church of Christ has received a $20,000 matching grant from Provo City’s Certified Local Government program and the Utah State Historic Preservation Office to restore the stucco facades of its two historic buildings. Part of the Cornerstone Restoration Project, this work will address severe exterior deterioration threatening the century-old structures, including the adjacent Meno Trope Hall. To secure the full grant, the church must raise matching funds through its “Save Our Stucco” campaign, preserving the landmark as a vital spiritual and community hub in downtown Provo.

The Lehi Historical Society will unveil a marker honoring the Saratoga Resort, a once-thriving lakeside destination established in the late 1800s by John Beck. Inspired by Saratoga Springs in New York, the resort drew visitors for its hot springs, recreation, and medicinal waters for over a century. Managed by Beck and later the Eastmond family, the resort evolved with each generation, featuring dances, swimming, and local events. Though fires and time brought change, the site's legacy remains a cherished part of Northern Utah County's preservation story.

Spring City residents, historic property owners, and the nonprofit Friends of Historic Spring City have filed a lawsuit against their City Council, claiming its recent actions threaten the town’s federal historic designation. Known for its rare 19th-century LDS village landscape, Spring City is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has received over $3.4 million in preservation investments. The suit alleges the Council ignored planning protections, increased density in historic areas, bypassed federal review processes, and failed to disclose conflicts of interest or engage the public. Plaintiffs argue these decisions risk the town’s historic identity, economic base, and access to vital preservation funding.

The Walker Center’s weather tower has been a quiet icon of Salt Lake City since 1953, lighting up the skyline with a simple color code: solid red for snow, flashing red for rain, flashing blue for clouds, and solid blue for clear skies. Originally built in the 1940s as a radio tower, it evolved into a beloved feature of the historic 1912 skyscraper. Restored and modernized with LED lights in 2022, the tower still serves its original purpose while also honoring holidays and community pride. Preservation efforts and public rooftop tours continue to celebrate this enduring piece of the city’s architectural and cultural heritage.

The historic American Fork Presbyterian Church, known for its cameo in the 1984 film Footloose, is more than a pop culture site—it’s a 150-year-old place of worship with deep community roots. Built in 1881 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the church has long served as both a sanctuary and an educational space. Despite its fame, it faces preservation challenges, such as recent roof repairs. The small but diverse congregation continues to care for the building and its legacy, working to preserve its role as a historic and spiritual anchor in Utah Valley.

Tucked in a basement near Provo’s Center Street, Brent Ashworth’s private museum is a preservationist’s dream. Over 50 years, Ashworth has amassed one of Utah’s largest private collections—nearly 2 million items—including pioneer artifacts, early Americana, and rare Latter-day Saint memorabilia. His treasures range from Joseph Smith’s family Bible to a flag flown on the moon. Ashworth began collecting after discovering family letters from LDS President Heber J. Grant and has since dedicated his life to saving historic items from being lost or forgotten. His mission is not just to preserve, but to share—donating thousands of items to museums and institutions and opening his collection to the public by appointment.

The Daughters of Utah Pioneers (DUP) celebrates 75 years in their beloved Pioneer Memorial Museum—headquarters for a society more than a century old and rich in heritage.

Founded in 1901, DUP has welcomed over 100,000 members across generations. Today, the museum houses tens of thousands of artifacts, photographs, and historical records, offering visitors a powerful connection to the stories that have shaped Utah.

Society President Ellen Jeppson and Lesson Committee Vice President Julie Thompson say their work is about more than preservation—it’s about drawing strength from the past and passing it on. “We’re not just telling history,” Thompson said. “We’re part of a continuum.”

Payson High School, built in 1967 and known for its role in the film Footloose, was recently demolished to make way for a new building. Principal Jesse Sorenson—himself a fourth-generation Payson High graduate—reflected on the school’s deep roots and lasting community impact.

While the structure is gone, a piece of history moves forward: Kevin Bacon’s locker from the film now sits in the new school as a tribute. Sorenson reminds us that it’s not the building but the memories, friendships, and spirit that endure—preserving the legacy of Payson for generations to come.

The Utah State Railroad Museum in Ogden is showcasing two rare additions to its collection: a 1955 Western Pacific caboose and a fully restored Merci Boxcar gifted by France after WWII. Both pieces deepen the museum’s commitment to preserving Utah’s rail heritage and will be open for free public viewing during the Ogden Arts Festival.

The caboose, one of only 13 remaining nationwide, was acquired from Washington for $16,000 to represent Western Pacific’s legacy in Utah. The Merci Boxcar, recently restored for $100,000, will now be protected under cover after years of outdoor exposure. These efforts highlight the museum’s dedication to safeguarding and sharing the stories of Utah’s historic railroads.

Three Utah streets—Park City’s Main Street, Ogden’s Historic 25th Street, and Cedar City’s North Main—were recognized among the most walkable in the nation, each blending vibrant community life with preserved historic character. Park City’s Main showcases silver boom-era architecture, while Ogden’s 25th Street preserves its Wild West roots with historic signs and rail heritage. Cedar City’s Main combines public art, pioneer landmarks, and literary flair. These streets exemplify how walkable environments can also preserve and celebrate local history.

Salt Lake City’s historic Fisher Mansion is one step closer to revival after decades of vacancy. A new report by Friends of Fisher Mansion outlines options for restoring and reusing the 132-year-old landmark, ranging from a museum or art gallery to a community event space.

Designed by architect Richard Kletting in 1893, the Victorian mansion has served various roles over time; however, deterioration and an earthquake left it empty for years. Now, the city has invested $3 million in structural repairs, and advocates are urging for an additional $500,000 to complete essential preservation work.

A new exhibit, Heber City: 100 Years, is capturing the town’s past through storytelling, photos, and community memory. Curated by the Community Alliance for Main Street, the project highlights local history from 1925 to 2025 — from lighthearted tales like a 10-foot fiberglass chicken prank to serious moments like the 1983 flood.

The goal is preservation through connection. "It’s the people and experiences that make our community special," said exhibit organizer Rachel Kahler. The project emphasizes historic storytelling to inspire stewardship of Heber’s Main Street and beyond.

On view at the Wasatch County Library through September 2, the exhibit bridges generations and invites residents to see themselves as part of Heber’s evolving legacy.

Utah’s ancient rock art—carved and painted by Indigenous peoples thousands of years ago—has withstood time, weather, and natural forces. But today, its greatest threat isn’t erosion. It’s us.

Graffiti, vandalism, and even unintentional contact are damaging these irreplaceable cultural treasures at an alarming rate. Oils from our hands, footsteps off-trail, or careless photoshoots can cause irreversible harm.

Preservation starts with awareness. Stay on trails. Never touch or lean on petroglyphs or pictographs. Speak up if you see vandalism, and help educate others about the significance and fragility of these sites.

These images are more than desert decorations—they are stories, histories, and sacred places. By protecting them, we preserve not just the art, but the legacy of the people who created it. Let’s keep Utah’s rock art standing for the next thousand years.

As Richfield’s trails attract bikers and off-roaders from across the West, the town faces a familiar crossroads: how to welcome growth without losing its heritage. Once a mining and farming hub, Richfield is now a rising outdoor destination—but locals are urging thoughtful preservation to avoid the fate of Moab.

From historic downtown to the sweeping Paiute Trail, the community is working to protect the land, respect its rural roots, and preserve the character that makes Richfield unique. Growth is here—but so is the chance to shape it with care.

As Wasatch County’s population rapidly expands, local leaders are updating their general plan for the first time since 2001, with a focus on preserving the county’s historic character and values. Officials say the plan is not just about growth and land use, but about honoring the legacy of early settlers and the strong sense of place that’s defined the area for generations. Residents have voiced concern over losing that identity, and planners are working to ensure community, connection, and preservation remain central. The updated plan seeks to balance development with the protection of the county’s heritage—before it’s lost to unchecked change.

Cedar City’s historic downtown is thriving with renewed life. In What’s Going There, Tom Callister highlights restored buildings now home to vibrant local spots like The Pub Spirits + Craft Kitchen and Centro Pizzeria. These preservation-driven efforts are blending charm and growth—showing how historic spaces can anchor a lively, modern Main Street.

Salt Lake City’s Warm Springs once welcomed generations to soak in its naturally heated, mineral-rich waters. Long before it became home to the 1921 Wasatch Springs Plunge bathhouse, the site was—and still is—sacred to Indigenous peoples including the Ute, Shoshone, and Goshute.

Though the historic building still stands at Warm Springs Park, it’s sat largely unused for decades. Preservation advocates, led by the Warm Springs Alliance, are calling for the site’s restoration—not just to revive its architectural legacy, but to honor its deep cultural and healing significance. With geothermal waters still flowing, the question remains: Will the city preserve and reactivate this one-of-a-kind historic and cultural asset?

With Zion National Park drawing millions of visitors each year, Toquerville has long borne the brunt of tourist traffic streaming through its historic downtown. Now, a newly completed bypass—the Toquerville Parkway—offers more than traffic relief. It’s a vital preservation tool.

The new route diverts cars away from Toquerville Boulevard, where pioneer-era homes and landmarks like the John C. Naegle Big House sit vulnerable to heavy traffic. Local leaders, including Mayor Justin Sip and Rep. Joseph Elison, see the project as a way to protect the town’s historic core while managing growth.

By returning control of the old main street to the city, lowering speed limits, and planning thoughtfully around future development, Toquerville is showing how infrastructure can support—not sacrifice—heritage. As tourism and population rise, this small town is prioritizing preservation as the path forward.

Main Streets across Utah are seeing a revival—and at the heart of that resurgence is historic preservation. As featured in a new FOX 13 News special, communities like Midvale and Payson are blending history, art, and local pride to reenergize their downtown cores. In Midvale, a mural walk celebrates the city’s unique past through public art, while in Payson, preservation efforts on Main Street are maintaining the town’s historic charm with strong community support. These projects show how Utah’s Main Streets aren’t just thoroughfares—they’re cultural anchors, where revitalization honors the past while creating vibrant, connected futures.

As new development transforms Ogden’s business park, one building stands as a powerful reminder of the city’s past: the Ogden Union Stockyard Exchange Building. Built in 1931, this historic structure once served as a hub of regional commerce and community life. Now surrounded by modern buildings and increased activity—including the popular Roosters Brewing just across the river—the Stockyard building is visibly deteriorating but far from forgotten. Recently named to Preservation Utah’s 2025 Most Endangered list, the building is owned by the City of Ogden, which has expressed strong interest in restoring and reactivating the space. While no official redevelopment plan has been announced, community members and preservation advocates are hopeful. As Preservation Utah’s executive director Brandy Strand noted, “It’s an excellent example of community pride.” For the city to bring it back to life, a viable proposal is needed soon. Whether through public-private partnership or city-led investment, the goal remains the same: to save this architectural anchor and preserve its role as a centerpiece of Ogden’s evolving identity.

At the heart of Salt Lake City's redevelopment debate is Smith’s Ballpark—a place layered with memory, identity, and architectural significance. The recently released Ballpark Next Community Design Plan proposes partial demolition and redevelopment of the site, preserving a portion of the bleachers and field as a venue for events, while introducing dense housing, commercial buildings, and civic facilities. But many residents feel that the plan misses a key opportunity: to center historic preservation and create a space that truly honors the character and legacy of the ballpark. With concerns over building heights, minimal green space, and the loss of potential community gathering places, neighbors are calling for a more balanced approach—one that respects the past while addressing today’s needs. As the city gathers additional feedback, preservation advocates hope the final design will better reflect the community’s vision for a future that builds on the story of Smith’s Ballpark, rather than erasing it.

As new development rises around it, the 1931 Ogden Union Stockyard Exchange Building stands as a powerful reminder of the city’s historic identity—and a key piece of its future. Now listed on Preservation Utah’s 2025 Most Endangered list, the building faces deterioration even as the surrounding business park flourishes. City officials and community advocates, including Preservation Utah, are working to find a path forward that preserves the building and reactivates it as a central gathering space. While the vision is clear, viable proposals are urgently needed to move restoration plans ahead. As Roosters Brewing’s Braden Anguiano puts it, saving the Stockyard isn’t just about the past—it’s about the unique texture and pride it brings to Ogden today and into the future.

Four Utah communities—Ogden, Brigham City, Cedar City, and Payson—were honored at the inaugural Utah Main Street Awards for their outstanding contributions to revitalizing and preserving historic downtown areas. Celebrated at the Preservation Engaged Conference in Mount Pleasant, the awards recognized excellence in innovation, preservation, leadership, and volunteerism. Ogden’s Harvest Moon Festival received the Innovative Event award for turning Historic 25th Street into a beloved seasonal gathering space. Brigham City was recognized for its preservation and Design Excellence through the Façade Grant Program, which supports the restoration of historic storefronts. Cedar City’s Talisa Myers was honored with the Spirit of Main Street award, while Tyler Jones of Payson was named Outstanding Volunteer for his grassroots leadership. These recognitions highlight how local communities are using preservation-based strategies to strengthen economies, celebrate heritage, and bring historic districts back to life, proving that Utah Main Street is more than a program; it’s a movement rooted in place and purpose.

Utah Main Street honored four standout communities at its first Main Street Awards, held during the Preservation Engaged Conference in Mount Pleasant. The awards highlighted how preservation and community dedication are shaping vibrant downtowns across the state. Ogden received the Innovative Event Award for its Harvest Moon Festival, which brings Historic 25th Street to life each fall. Brigham City was recognized for Preservation and Design Excellence through its impactful façade grant program. Cedar City’s Talisa Myers earned the Spirit of Main Street Award for her leadership, and Payson’s Tyler Jones was named Outstanding Volunteer for his lasting contributions to preserving and activating Historic Downtown Payson. These recognitions underscore the vital role preservation plays in community identity and local economic vitality.

Historic downtowns across Utah County are getting a new lease on life thanks to the Utah Main Street program, which welcomed Pleasant Grove, Springville, and five other towns into its Tier 1 Promising Communities initiative. These efforts mark a community-driven push to revitalize historic cores through preservation-based economic development. In Springville, plans are already underway to reconstruct the 19th-century Central Bank building, while Pleasant Grove is working with local leaders and consultants to shape a preservation-focused downtown plan. Administered by the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Main Street America program, Utah’s statewide effort empowers cities to celebrate their architectural character, attract investment, and keep their heritage at the forefront. As each city develops its own roadmap for renewal, historic preservation remains at the heart of creating vibrant, walkable downtowns that honor the past while looking toward the future.

At the inaugural Utah Main Street Awards, four communities were honored for their exceptional preservation-driven revitalization efforts. These awards highlight the transformative power of the Utah Main Street program, which partners with Main Street America to support preservation-based economic development in historic downtowns. Ogden received the Innovative Event Award for its beloved Harvest Moon Festival on Historic 25th Street, while Brigham City was recognized for excellence in preservation and design through its façade improvement grant program. Cedar City’s Talisa Myers and Payson’s Tyler Jones were both celebrated for outstanding volunteerism and leadership. With 22 communities now participating, Utah Main Street remains a powerful force for celebrating place, protecting heritage, and fostering community-led renewal.

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