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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At the Preservation Engaged Conference in Mount Pleasant, Utah Main Street celebrated its first-ever Main Street Awards, recognizing the powerful role preservation plays in revitalizing downtowns. Honorees included Ogden, whose Harvest Moon Festival received the Innovative Event Award for transforming Historic 25th Street into a beloved community gathering; Brigham City, awarded for Preservation and Design Excellence through its impactful façade grant program; Cedar City’s Talisa Myers, recognized with the Spirit of Main Street Award for her leadership; and Tyler Jones of Payson, celebrated as Outstanding Volunteer for his commitment to preserving and activating his historic downtown. These awards highlight how local leadership and historic preservation are creating more vibrant, connected, and resilient communities.

Murray is honoring its past through a walking tour of restored landmarks along State Street:

Desert Star Playhouse: Live comedies in a historic venue, anchoring the entertainment district.
NeighborWorks: Housed in the restored Townsend Home, this nonprofit supports community revitalization.
Murray Museum: Inside the 1898 John P. Cahoon Mansion, with exhibits (including LEGO models) teaching local history.

Preservation is alive and well in Murray — and open to the public.

The historic Murray Theater is nearing completion after a major renovation that preserves its 1930s character while adding modern amenities. Original architectural details, such as the decorative plaster diffuser and ornate columns, have been carefully restored, and the terrazzo entrance now mirrors the theater’s 1938 design. A new green room expands its use for live performances. The first event will feature singer Loren Allred on September 26, followed by free tours and film showings on September 28. On October 28, the theater will screen some of the same films it premiered with nearly 90 years ago, blending preservation with performance in a newly revitalized community space.

Just weeks after the Forsyth Fire scorched over 13,500 acres and destroyed 14 homes, Pine Valley residents gathered for a moving Fourth of July celebration that honored not only community resilience but the preservation of their historic heritage. Among the most powerful moments was the parade appearance of 103-year-old Edna Raw Gardner Frye, Pine Valley’s oldest living resident and a descendant of its original settlers. Her family home, built in the 1860s and recently restored, narrowly escaped the fire — a testament to both the fragility and strength of historic places. As Pine Valley begins its long recovery, the survival of landmarks like Frye’s home reminds the community of the enduring importance of protecting historic structures, especially in the face of growing climate threats.

Utah Main Street has awarded over $315,000 to seven historic properties across the state through its 2025 Revive & Reside program. These grants support the rehabilitation of vacant or underused historic buildings, transforming them into new housing and commercial spaces.

A new Golden Spike State Monument is coming to Brigham City, featuring a towering 43-foot sculpture commemorating the workers who built America’s first transcontinental railroad. The gold-leafed spike—expected to open to the public in fall 2026—honors immigrants, formerly enslaved individuals, Civil War veterans, and others whose labor united the nation in 1869 at Promontory Summit.

Created by sculptor Douwe Blumberg, the monument features 74 faces, including Abraham Lincoln, Brigham Young, and countless unnamed workers. Each side reflects a different story—from Chinese and Irish laborers to the displacement of Native Americans.

After five years and 4 million hours of work, the Salt Lake Temple has been placed on new seismic footings—a monumental moment in what is now Utah’s largest historic preservation project.

Originally built on sandstone and soil in the 1800s, the temple is now suspended above ground, resting on base isolators and a transfer girder that allows it to sway safely during earthquakes. Post-tension cables, drilled through 46 shafts in the stone walls, now unify the building’s pioneer-era structure with its 21st-century foundation.

Salt Lake City has unveiled redevelopment plans for the 13.5-acre Ballpark site, the former home of the Salt Lake Bees. The proposal keeps part of Smith’s Ballpark for year-round community events. It introduces new parks, a library, a fire station, retail, and over 450 housing units, with a focus on owner-occupied homes.

After 2½ years of careful work, the historic Joseph Smith Memorial Building (formerly the Hotel Utah) has reopened to the public — showcasing one of downtown Salt Lake City’s most significant preservation efforts.

Built in 1911, this Beaux Arts landmark has been seismically upgraded, made more accessible, and restored with attention to its historic detailing — from original stained glass ceilings to period floor tile patterns. Designers incorporated elements from the building’s past, including nods to the original Crossroads Grill and Hotel Utah lobby.

Once a grand hotel hosting presidents and icons, the building now serves as a welcoming community space, dining hub, and architectural reminder of Salt Lake City’s evolving historic core. This reopening highlights how adaptive reuse and preservation can keep beloved landmarks vibrant for future generations.

As the Forsyth Fire threatens southern Utah, one symbol of resilience remains untouched: the historic Pine Valley Chapel. Built in 1868, it is believed to be the oldest continuously used Latter-day Saint meetinghouse in the world. Its survival has become a beacon of hope for the evacuated Pine Valley community.

Designed by shipbuilder Ebenezer Bryce—who constructed it like an upside-down ship—the chapel is known for its unique architecture and rich heritage. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971, alongside the adjacent Tithing Office.

Despite recent challenges—including a damaging windstorm and false rumors of demolition earlier this year—the chapel remains a lasting testament to the region’s pioneer roots. As firefighters work to contain the 8,899-acre blaze, the Pine Valley Chapel continues to stand as a powerful symbol of endurance and preservation.

As the Forsyth Fire burns over 8,800 acres and forces evacuations in Pine Valley, one symbol of resilience remains: the Pine Valley Chapel.

Built in 1868 and believed to be the oldest continually used Latter-day Saint meetinghouse, the chapel has endured wildfires, windstorms, and decades of change. Designed by shipbuilder Ebenezer Bryce, its attic resembles the hull of an overturned ship—a structure said to be seaworthy if flipped.

Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the chapel stands untouched by fire, offering hope to a displaced community as efforts to contain the blaze continue.

After a strange experience during home renovations, Adrienne White founded House Genealogy to uncover the stories behind Utah’s historic homes. Her research has revealed everything from forgotten architecture to feminist history and ghost lore.

White offers services like house histories, preservation tax credit consulting, and National Register nominations—including the successful listing of Abravanel Hall in 2024.

By blending genealogy, archives, and storytelling, she helps homeowners connect more deeply with their spaces—and with the past.

The Centennial House at 176 Main Street—once a boarding home for miners and later a haven for ski bums—is undergoing a major preservation effort after decades of neglect. Built in 1901 by Joseph Durkin, the home played a key role in Park City’s mining era and later gained a haunted reputation, with local lore tying it to ghost sightings and untimely deaths.

Now, thanks to support from the Park City Planning Department and Historic Preservation Board, the house is being restored to its 1907 appearance as a single-family home. The project not only revives a unique piece of architecture but also honors the layered stories of Park City’s past, from labor history to local legend.

A historic Logan Canyon property—known as Hatch Camp and later St. Ann’s Retreat or "The Nunnery"—is now for sale. Built in the 1930s by the Hatch and Odlum families, the retreat once hosted Hollywood figures and served as a luxurious summer escape.

Later donated to the Catholic Church for use as a girls’ camp, the site eventually fell into disrepair and became the subject of ghost stories. Despite vandalism and decay, original features like hand-painted metalwork and hardwood floors remain.

Preservation advocates hope the property can be restored through a partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, honoring its rich past and potential as a cultural landmark.

Historic walking tours are back in Pleasant Grove, starting with a recent tour of some of the city’s oldest homes along Locust Avenue during Strawberry Days. The series continues on July 21 with a tour on 200 South and an August tour in the Monkey Town neighborhood. Tours are free, with optional booklets available for purchase.

Other nearby cities offer historic tours too: Provo’s interactive downtown tour is accessible via the Provo Historic Tours app, and American Fork provides downloadable maps for its historic sites like the Alpine Tabernacle and Harrington School. Preservation Utah also offers walking and driving tour guides through their app.

Ogden is searching for a developer to restore the 1931 Art Deco Union Stock Exchange building, listed as one of Utah’s most endangered historic sites. Despite its poor condition, Preservation Utah says the building’s structure is still sound.

A 2022 redevelopment deal fell through, and the city warns the building risks demolition. Funds are set aside to stabilize it if needed. Restoration costs are estimated at $1.6–$1.8 million, with possible public incentives to support redevelopment.

Salt Lake City has agreed to waive $61,000 in fines on the historic Fifth Ward Meetinghouse, a major boost for the nonprofit Salt of the Earth, which is leading its restoration. Built in 1910 and partially demolished illegally, the meetinghouse’s fines had been a barrier for donors. Skyler Baird, the nonprofit’s president, called the waiver a “major step forward” that allows them to focus on rebuilding the structure and its role as a transitional housing and community space.

The nonprofit Friends of Ski Mountain Mining History is working to restore endangered historic structures in Park City’s Silver King Mining District. Heavy snow collapsed the Thaynes hoist house roof during the 2022–2023 season, prompting urgent repair efforts.

The group has secured some funding but still needs $800,000 this year to save the Thaynes headframe, hoist house, and nearby buildings. An $18,000 grant in 2024 helped start repairs, with reconstruction planned for 2026.

The Silver King site, including over 20 structures like the 1937 Thaynes headframe, is nationally significant and was once a major silver, lead, and zinc producer. Notably, the headframe became the world’s only underground ski lift in the 1960s.

Utah’s landmarks and cities have transformed over time. Salt Lake City’s traffic woes led to the invention of the traffic light in 1912. St. George’s population soared from 13,000 in 1980 to over 113,000 today, growing from a snowbird haven to a major city.

Lagoon Amusement Park once had the West’s first filtered pool and now features a 103-year-old roller coaster. Zion National Park visitors jumped from 1.1 million in 1980 to over 5 million annually, changing access rules.

Lake Powell, created by Glen Canyon Dam in 1963, has shrunk due to drought but remains popular. Salt Lake’s transit evolved from trolleys to buses and then to TRAX light rail.

Iconic spots like no-alcohol dance clubs have closed, and the skyline now features taller buildings replacing older landmarks. As Utah grows, many remember the places that shaped its history.

The historic Hi-Ute Ranch barn in Park City was designated as a historically significant structure in May by the Snyderville Basin Planning Commission. With this status and a newly approved permit, Utah Open Lands will restore and repurpose the barn as a conservation-focused field station.

Executive Director Wendy Fisher noted the barn dates back to at least 1918 and that preserving its history aligns with their mission to protect landscape and legacy. The permit allows for structural stabilization and future small-scale public programs centered on stewardship, resilience, and conservation science.

The field station will serve as a hub to share land management data from Hi-Ute Ranch and other Utah areas. While the barn will host Utah Open Lands’ annual gala in August, it won’t be open for general public access, focusing instead on curated, balanced experiences.

On June 21, 2025, the Park City Museum will host its Historic Home Tour from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring nine sites including seven private homes, the Treasure Mountain Inn, and St. Mary’s Old Town Chapel.

Treasure Mountain Inn, opened in 1963 and tied to the town’s ski history, will serve as the tour’s base. St. Mary’s Chapel, built in 1884 and Utah’s oldest Catholic church structure, represents another historic highlight.

Most homes on the tour date from the late 1800s to early 1900s, showcasing the challenges of building in Old Town’s small, hillside lots near Poison Creek.

Visitors can explore the route freely after checking in at Treasure Mountain Inn, with docents guiding and sharing stories inside the homes. The tour aims to reconnect the public with Upper Main Street and Daly Avenue, areas not recently featured in past tours.

Homeowners generously open their doors, sharing their renovations and pride in these historic properties.

St. George officials stopped plans to build an electric substation on a rare Jurassic-era fossil quarry, preserving the site for ongoing digs. The three-quarter-acre quarry is the only Jurassic bone site in the Southwest and a top dinosaur track location in North America.

Since March, scientists and volunteers have unearthed over 1,100 fossils, including bones, teeth, and fish skeletons. Paleontologist Andrew Milner highlighted finds that may include two new large and two small meat-eating dinosaur species, several ancient fish species, and shark fossils. A dinosaur footprint was also found, revealing how these animals moved.

The quarry was once part of Lake Whitmore, a 200-million-year-old ancient lake covering the area. Less than half the site has been explored so far.

The city relocated the substation nearby, allowing more careful excavation. Construction is planned for October to serve 1,000 homes and 300 businesses.

Park City’s Historic Preservation Board has approved the reconstruction of the long-condemned Centennial House at 176 Main Street. Built in the early 1900s as a boardinghouse for silver miners, the building was heavily damaged during the 2004 Poison Creek flood, which filled the lower level with mud, rocks, and water. The house was officially condemned in 2007 and has remained uninhabitable.

Despite past structural damage, mold, and disrepair, Centennial House LLC has received unanimous approval to move forward with a project that will deconstruct and rebuild the house using as many historic materials as possible. Some community members, including preservationist Rich Wyman, voiced concerns about losing the building’s authenticity. Others, like new owner Michael Bradbury, celebrated the opportunity to save and restore a beloved landmark.

A devastating fire on Saturday, June 7, destroyed the historic Chipman Mansion in American Fork, killing several pets and leaving the 1850s-era home in ruins.

Discovered by an off-duty firefighter just before 11 a.m., the blaze quickly spread through the large brick home, located at 280 South and Center Street. Despite a rapid response from nearby fire crews, the structure’s age and lack of fire breaks allowed flames to move unchecked through hidden spaces.

Built in the 1850s and later restored by Dave and Afton Fitzen, the mansion was a cherished piece of American Fork’s architectural history. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

A Saturday morning fire engulfed the historic Chipman Mansion in American Fork, killing several animals and prompting a large emergency response. Crews were dispatched just after 11 a.m. on June 7 after an off-duty firefighter saw smoke while driving with his son and called 911.

The blaze, which broke out at the 19th-century mansion located at 280 South and Center Street, proved difficult to contain due to the building’s age and distance from the road. Firefighters rescued 11 cats, but six or seven others perished in the fire. No people were harmed.

Crews from multiple neighboring cities joined American Fork firefighters in battling the flames, which continued burning for hours due to the home’s old construction and deep-set location. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Utah historians have launched the Buffalo Soldier Heritage Trail, linking key sites across the state to highlight the often-overlooked presence of Black soldiers stationed in Utah after the Civil War.

Led by the Utah Cultural Site Stewardship Program and partners like the Sema Hadithi Foundation, the project began in 2023 and has uncovered a wealth of material about the 24th Infantry at Fort Douglas and the 9th Cavalry at Fort Duchesne. Over 1,000 Buffalo Soldiers served in Utah from 1878 to 1901, playing key roles in westward expansion despite facing discrimination.

The new trail includes stops in Salt Lake City, Moab, Vernal, Helper, Price, and along historic routes like Nine Mile Canyon and the Carter Military Road. Public events were held in June, with future signage and online materials—including an audiobook—helping bring the soldiers’ stories to life. The goal, organizers say, is to preserve this critical part of Utah’s multicultural and military history.

The Lehi Historical Society recently clarified the purpose of its Historical Marker Program to address public confusion and reinforce its storytelling mission. Approved at the May 21 board meeting, the program aims to share short, engaging stories about Lehi’s past through large, public markers. Founded in 2022, the project plans to install 36 markers over five years. With financial support from HADCO Construction and Lehi’s PARC grant, ten have been unveiled so far, including the latest honoring Broadbent & Son. The next dedication will take place July 9 at the Tithing Barn on 200 East.

The tour highlights 35 historic properties across central Heber, including the brick home of John Crook, whose journals offer insight into the city’s early days, and the residence of Heber’s first mayor, James Clyde.

A new 565-mile Buffalo Soldier Trail traces the legacy of Black military regiments across Utah. Launched by Utah SHPO, Sema Hadithi Foundation, and Rep. Sandra Hollins, the trail connects historic sites like Fort Douglas, Moab, and Fort Duchesne.

The 24th Infantry and 9th Cavalry, stationed in Utah in the late 1800s, played key roles in events like the Battle of San Juan Hill. The trail features a printed guide, website, and kickoff events in Salt Lake City, Price, and Vernal.

The project aims to raise awareness of Utah’s often-overlooked Black history and military contributions.

The Park City Historic Preservation Board has unanimously approved plans to deconstruct and rebuild the long-condemned Centennial House at the top of Main Street.

Built around 1901 by miner and former city councilman Joseph Durkin, the two-story boarding house once served single miners and later became a popular crash pad during Park City’s ski boom. It was damaged by flooding in 2003 and condemned in 2007 due to structural decay, black mold, and animal infestations.

Under the approved plan, the new owner will salvage as many original materials as possible and reconstruct the building to reflect its 1907 appearance. While some residents voiced concern over the loss of original fabric, board members and neighbors largely supported the move as the best option to preserve the site’s legacy. Construction could begin as early as this fall.

The Park City Historic Preservation Board approved a plan to reconstruct the decrepit Centennial House on upper Main Street.

On May 2, the first Murray City Downtown Block Party brought the community together at City Hall, celebrating local culture alongside the grand opening of the newly restored Murray Museum. The event marked a key milestone in revitalizing Murray’s historic downtown district.

The Murray City Downtown District, a nonprofit founded in 2023 to support local businesses and preserve historic sites, organized the party to promote awareness and community engagement. The block party featured dozens of Murray-based vendors and artists, drawing residents to experience the revitalized area.

Board member Clark Bullen emphasized the event’s goal: to inspire community investment in downtown’s future, including plans for a historic plaza anchored by the museum. While the block party was new territory for organizers, it was a success they hope to make an annual tradition and a catalyst for downtown Murray’s ongoing renewal.

The Mazer Chapel at Hill Aerospace Museum, originally built in 1942, reopened this week after two years of major renovations. Closed in 2023, the chapel underwent roof and window replacements, pew repairs, new carpet, fresh paint, updated restrooms, a new sound system, and improved heating and cooling.

Museum director Aaron Clark highlighted the importance of preserving this World War II-era chapel to keep local and national history alive. Though replaced as a chapel in 1964 and nearly demolished in 1984, the building was saved, relocated to museum grounds, and restored.

Now part of the museum’s Memorial Park, the chapel serves as a community gathering space and educational site, connecting visitors to Utah’s WWII history and honoring the sacrifices of Airmen from that era.

Murray City celebrated the grand opening of its new Murray Museum on May 2, housed in the restored John P. Cahoon Mansion. The event featured reenactors, family activities, and a block party, marking a major step in the city’s cultural revitalization.

The museum’s restoration earned the 2025 Community Stewardship Award from Preservation Utah, honoring efforts to preserve the Victorian mansion, once home to industrial pioneer John P. Cahoon. Now updated for public access, the building retains original features like fireplaces, woodwork, and leaded glass.

The museum is part of the “Love, Murray” initiative, which includes upcoming projects like the Murray Armory and the restored Murray Theatre. A new Townsend-Cahoon Festival Street will replace part of Poplar Street with a pedestrian plaza featuring historic design elements, gathering spaces, and food stalls — all aimed at making downtown a vibrant, community-centered destination.

Utah is unveiling the Buffalo Soldier Heritage Trail, highlighting the history of two Black military units stationed here after the Civil War—the 24th Infantry at Fort Douglas and the 9th Cavalry at Fort Duchesne.

The trail features eight historic sites across Utah, including Fort Douglas, Fort Duchesne, Nine Mile Canyon, Moab, Price, and Vernal.

Kickoff events on June 6 and 7 in Salt Lake City, Price, and Vernal will share the trail’s story, offer museum admissions, and include guided tours of archaeological and cultural sites.

The project is led by Utah’s Cultural Site Stewardship Program in partnership with African American heritage groups. Interpretive signs, an informational booklet, and an interactive website provide deeper insight into this important history.

Plans to redevelop land near Salt Lake City’s Delta Center and Salt Palace have raised concerns among Japantown advocates. Once a thriving Japanese American district, only the Japanese Church of Christ and Salt Lake Buddhist Temple remain.

Advocates want these historic churches preserved and accessible as Smith Entertainment Group moves forward with a new sports and entertainment district. They also hope to bring back Japanese businesses and cultural spaces.

Preservation Utah and local leaders, including Councilman Darin Mano, support integrating Japantown’s heritage into the redevelopment to honor its history and revitalize the area.

Park City’s Historic Preservation Board will revisit plans to deconstruct and rebuild the historic Centennial House, located at 176 Main Street near Swede Alley. Built in the early 1900s, the boarding house played a key role in Park City’s mining and skiing history.

The proposal aims to use as many original materials as possible. The architect revised the design to better reflect the home’s early 20th-century appearance, addressing prior board feedback.

An engineering assessment ruled out lifting the structure intact due to its poor condition. The house, condemned and uninhabitable, has been vacant for some time, with issues like black mold and structural damage.

On May 6, Aramark Destinations opened the Historic Preservation Center in Panguitch, Utah, to address the growing need for skilled restoration specialists in national parks and public lands.

The 4,000-square-foot facility will train and equip experts in carpentry, masonry, painting, and historic restoration. It supports key sites like Bryce Canyon Lodge, Yosemite’s Ahwahnee, and other historic landmarks managed by Aramark.

The center aims to create a sustainable talent pipeline through apprenticeships and hands-on training, ensuring the preservation of irreplaceable destinations. Led by experienced manager Richard Smith and capital programs director Matthew Webber, the center combines state-of-the-art equipment with decades of restoration expertise.

The owner of Trolley Square in Salt Lake City is seeking approval from the Historic Landmarks Commission (HLC) to “deconstruct” a circa 1915 Arts and Crafts style home at 632 S 700 E and rebuild it nearby on the same block to make way for new residential development.

Located within the Central City Local Historic District, the property can’t be simply demolished without approval. Instead, the developer plans to carefully take apart the house and reconstruct it at a new address (635 E 700 S), which currently doesn’t officially exist and may require property subdivision.

The new location will convert the single-family home into a two-family structure, and the developer is also requesting a reduced side yard setback to better fit the historic character of the neighborhood. City staff recommend approval, noting the move would help maintain the building’s historic features while accommodating development.

Gunnison’s Johnson Cabin, built in 1891 by Swedish immigrants, has been transformed into the town’s first museum, preserving local pioneer history.

Located in Gunnison City Park, the cabin was dedicated recently, attracting history lovers and preservation experts. The Daughters of the Utah Pioneers moved and restored the cabin, which offers visitors a glimpse into pioneer life.

Local resident Claudia Sanborn led the museum effort, hoping it will draw visitors and keep Gunnison’s heritage alive. Tours will be available through volunteer guides.

After 16 years of planning, the Wasatch Food Co-op is close to opening a member-owned grocery on Salt Lake City’s 900 South as part of the Milk Block development.

The co-op aims to raise about $2 million more to complete funding. Over 1,200 members have already bought $300 lifetime memberships, with a goal of 1,500 members by opening day.

The full-service grocery will focus on locally sourced products and fill a grocery gap in the neighborhood, where the nearest stores are about a mile away.

The Milk Block site, once home to historic markets like O.P. Skaggs and Southeast Market, is being renovated by developer Kathia Dang and her husband, who purchased the building to preserve the neighborhood’s character.

Preservation Utah has listed the Kamas Main Street corridor as one of the state’s most endangered historic places for 2025. Spanning buildings constructed between 1871 and 1972, the area includes key historic structures such as an early pioneer tithing storehouse.

The listing comes amid concerns from local residents about increasing development pressure and the absence of protective ordinances. With no formal zoning or preservation guidelines in place, the corridor’s historic character is at risk of being lost.

The postwar-era Lighthouse Church in West Valley City, built in 1949 and known for its distinctive glass lamp-topped steeple, is slated for sale as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints retires the building. Originally constructed during a suburban boom, the red-brick chapel served thousands of members and hosted community events for over 75 years.

Currently, city officials are negotiating with the church and the nonprofit MyHometown to convert the 23,000-square-foot space into a community resource center offering classes and activities. Meanwhile, some residents are pushing for the building to become West Valley City’s first permanent history museum, preserving local artifacts and the church’s legacy.

The historic Salt Lake Tabernacle recently made a surprise appearance on Jeopardy!, but even this well-known Utah landmark proved too tricky for all three contestants. The clue referenced a biblical name shared by Baptist and Latter-day Saint buildings, and none of the players responded. Host Ken Jennings eventually revealed the answer: “tabernacle.”

Completed in 1867, the Salt Lake Tabernacle is one of Utah’s most iconic religious structures and home to the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir. It has hosted U.S. presidents, global leaders, and weekly broadcasts of Music and the Spoken Word. Though stumped on national TV, the Tabernacle remains a symbol of Utah’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

Kamas’s historic Main Street corridor—home to buildings dating back to 1871—has been named one of Utah’s most endangered historic places by Preservation Utah. Among the threatened sites is the Rock House, the city’s oldest surviving structure, built by pioneer Benjamin Thomas Mitchell. The building has served many roles over the decades, from a tithing storehouse to city hall.

The area is at risk due to development pressure and a lack of local preservation ordinances. Community concern and grassroots advocacy helped land the corridor on the endangered list, which highlights historically significant sites across Utah facing serious threats.

Preservation Utah and the newly formed Kamas Valley Preservation Association are working to raise awareness and promote voluntary preservation strategies. Together, they aim to protect Kamas’s heritage while supporting thoughtful growth.

In 2025, Treasure Mountain Inn (TMI) celebrates its 60th anniversary as a key piece of Park City’s transition from mining town to ski destination. Built in 1964 and opened in 1965, it was Utah’s first condominium-style hotel and a symbol of the town’s embrace of tourism.

Located near the top of Main Street on the site of the former Welsh, Driscoll, and Buck mercantile store, TMI quickly became a community hub. It drew thousands of visitors on opening day and played a major role in shaping Park City’s ski resort identity.

The inn returns as the home base for the Park City Museum’s 2025 Historic Home Tour—just as it did for its 50th anniversary in 2015. While not fully recognized as a protected historic site, TMI is honored by the Museum for its legacy and continues to be featured in walking tours and preservation programs.

Park City Museum members can explore the city’s mining and railroad past through a series of guided hikes led by historian David Nicholas. These seasonal hikes trace the paths of old rail lines that once powered Park City’s booming mining industry, offering insights into historic mines like the Park Con, Queen Esther, and Constellation, as well as the town’s railroad infrastructure.

Each hike focuses on a different area—from Lower Deer Valley to Rossi Hill—and blends local stories, historic landmarks, and scenic walking routes. Open only to museum members, the hikes are designed for small groups and typically last 3–3.5 hours. Membership includes access to these hikes along with other benefits like free museum admission and event invitations.

Once the largest U.S. military outpost of its time, Camp Floyd in Fairfield, Utah, holds a surprising and eerie history. Established in 1857 amid fears of a Mormon rebellion, the camp housed over 2,500 troops. With little conflict, soldiers spent their time building, gardening—and even forming Utah’s first Masonic lodge.

Today a state park, Camp Floyd is known for its cemetery, where over 40 soldiers are said to have died—some under mysterious circumstances, including multiple murders. Despite official records, radar scans have found fewer graves than expected.

Visitors can explore this Civil War-era site during special events like Camp Floyd Days on Memorial Day, featuring reenactments and tours of the historic Stagecoach Inn.

Warrens Family Restaurants is celebrating 70 years in business!

Preservation Utah has highlighted 12 sites on its 2025 Most Endangered Historic Places list, including the Kamas Main Street Corridor in Summit County.

The corridor features 23 historic buildings, such as the Rock House (built 1871), which served as a tithing storehouse, meeting house, city building, and jail over its history. Many structures are in poor condition and urgently need preservation efforts.

This annual list raises awareness of historic places at risk due to neglect, development, or natural threats. Last year, five Summit County sites—including Park City’s mining-era buildings and the Byron T. Mitchell Home in Francis—were also listed as endangered.

Park City’s Historic Preservation Board has delayed a vote on the proposed demolition and reconstruction of the Centennial House, a circa-1900 structure at the top of Main Street, citing concerns about historic integrity and public perception.

The heavily damaged house—formerly the Durkin Boarding House—was condemned after structural failures and flood damage in 2003. While some board members supported new plans, others questioned whether reconstruction is being prioritized over preservation.

Board Chair Douglas Stephens and others urged a redesign that reflects the building’s early 20th-century appearance, not post-1970s alterations, and emphasized the need for clarity between what’s original and what’s new.

The board will revisit the proposal at its June 4 meeting, continuing efforts to balance safety with meaningful preservation.

Park City's Historic Preservation Board has postponed a decision on the fate of the Centennial House, a deteriorated early-20th-century structure at 176 Main Street. A proposal to dismantle and rebuild using salvaged materials sparked debate over authenticity, loss of original fabric, and public reaction.

Board members expressed mixed views—some supporting sensitive redevelopment, others warning of community pushback and the risk of erasing irreplaceable history. The building, once the Durkin Boarding House, has been condemned since 2007.

The board will revisit the issue on June 4, as designers return with revised plans based on the building’s 1907 appearance, keeping preservation at the forefront of redevelopment discussions.

On May 10, Golden Spike National Historical Park marks 156 years since the completion of the transcontinental railroad—a transformative moment in U.S. history and a site preserved to honor both the innovation and the labor behind it.

Free events include historic reenactments, locomotive demos, and cultural presentations from groups like the Chinese Railroad Workers Descendants Association and Northwestern Band of the Shoshone, highlighting the diverse communities who built this legacy.

As we celebrate, we reflect on why preserving sites like Golden Spike matters—they connect us to the hard truths and triumphs that shaped the nation.

Park City’s Historic Preservation Board is reviewing a proposal to reconstruct the Centennial House—a historically designated home at 176 Main Street, built around 1900. Also known as the Durkin Boarding House, the property has sat vacant for years and was severely damaged by flooding in 2003.

The current owner seeks to demolish and rebuild the structure using salvaged materials, with additions and a new basement. Due to significant deterioration—including mold, animal remains, and structural collapse—the house is considered uninhabitable.

Preservation officials must now weigh reconstruction versus restoration, balancing public safety with the home’s historic legacy. A Historic District Design Review will ensure any rebuild aligns with Park City’s architectural character and historic fabric.

The long-neglected Centennial House at 176 Main Street—once the Durkin Boarding House—is now the subject of a redevelopment proposal before Park City’s Historic Preservation Board. Built in the early 1900s, the structure has suffered decades of deterioration, including flood damage, mold, and structural collapse. It was condemned in 2007.

The proposal calls for deconstructing and rebuilding the historic home, using salvaged materials to match the original design. The plan honors the site's past while introducing new residential space that maintains Main Street’s historic character.

If approved, the project would restore the last remaining boardinghouse of its kind in Old Town—preserving both history and purpose.

Officials are investigating the recent destruction of two tiki statues at the Iosepa Cemetery, a sacred site in Utah’s Skull Valley that honors the legacy of Hawaiian and Pacific Islander settlers. The tikis, installed last year, were meant to celebrate Iosepa’s cultural roots and serve as “guardians of our ancestors’ sacred lands.”

The statues were cut down with a saw and left in pieces. While the motive remains unclear, the tikis had sparked debate among some descendants over their religious symbolism.

Founded in the late 1800s by Latter-day Saint converts from Hawaii, Iosepa was abandoned in 1917. Its cemetery, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, remains a gathering place for descendants each Memorial Day to honor the heritage, faith, and perseverance of the original community.

“This isn’t just vandalism—it’s a blow to our efforts to preserve the cultural legacy of Iosepa,” said Ron Manuela of the Iosepa Historical Association.

The historic Fifth Ward Meetinghouse in Salt Lake City, partially demolished last year without permits, is now set for restoration as recovery housing. The building’s deed was transferred to Salt of the Earth, a nonprofit aiming to restore it to its 1910 condition and provide housing for people recovering from addiction.

Once a Latter-day Saint church, the site has also hosted famous rock concerts and served as a Buddhist temple. City approval is still pending, with plans to complete exterior stairs within six months and full interior restoration about a year after approvals. The project highlights efforts to preserve the Granary District’s historic landmarks and support community recovery.

In West Weber, 86-year-old Jerry Hancock has transformed his multigenerational Victorian home into a living museum of pioneer-era artifacts, preserving over 150 years of local heritage. Known as Elm Tree Corner, the 1867 home—once owned by Mormon settler Archibald McFarland—now houses everything from butter churns and steamer trunks to a Works Progress Administration outhouse and a 1929 Ford.

Hancock, a local artist, has rescued countless items from demolished historic buildings, determined to ensure the region’s material culture survives. His collection is open by appointment and has gained attention from the Weber County Heritage Foundation.

“I’ve got it set up in a trust for 200 years,” Hancock says. His efforts stand as a powerful example of grassroots preservation—where a home becomes both a time capsule and a community legacy.

After the closure of the historic Redwood Drive-In & Swap Meet—a longtime community gathering place—vendors and families have found a new home at the Grantsville Marketplace, which opened Sunday at Burt Brothers Motorpark.

For families like the Bautistas, who spent decades at Redwood, the new market isn’t just about selling goods—it’s about preserving a way of life. “It was almost like our tradition... It’s what we do,” said Vanessa Bautista.

With over 200 vendors and 2,000 attendees, Grantsville Marketplace keeps alive the cultural and economic lifeblood once fostered at Redwood. This new chapter reflects the power of community-driven preservation—where spaces may change, but the spirit endures.

Plans to redevelop the heart of Oakley are back on the table, but now without Dutch’s Service Station. Developer Steve Smith’s updated proposal excludes the longtime business after a deal to purchase it fell through.

The revised plan may include two new city-owned parcels south of Center Street, and still aims to bring a mix of residential, commercial, and affordable housing to the city’s core behind city hall. The public has yet to see the new proposal, but city leaders expect discussion to continue this summer.

Silver Reef sprang to life in 1875 when miners discovered silver embedded in sandstone—an improbable geological find. For a decade, the southern Utah town boomed, producing millions in silver, building elegant structures like the Cosmopolitan Restaurant and the Harrison House, and even surpassing nearby St. George in economic power.

It was a place of both resilience and unrest. In 1879, fire destroyed much of the town’s west side. In 1881, labor disputes erupted into riots and arrests when mine wages were cut. Despite rebuilding efforts, falling silver prices and unrest led to a slow decline. By the late 1880s, most mines had closed.

Silver Reef also held a surprising Chinese immigrant community, now the focus of ongoing archaeological research. Though largely abandoned by 1900, the town’s remains still tell a story of frontier ambition, conflict, and forgotten lives.

Just days before construction on a planned power substation, St. George city leaders agreed to spare a fossil-rich quarry at the Dinosaur Discovery Site—one of North America’s most significant fossil locations.

In just two months, scientists and thousands of volunteers unearthed fossil fish, dinosaur bones, and dozens of teeth at the site. Initially given until April’s end to excavate, museum leaders successfully appealed to city officials, who shifted the substation’s location.

Digging will resume this fall once summer heat subsides, preserving a rare window into prehistoric life.

Meyer Gallery marks its 60th anniversary with a special exhibition, “A Legacy of Art: 60 Years of Meyer Gallery,” opening May 30 from 6–9 p.m. during the Park City Gallery Stroll. On view through June 18, the show features Utah-based artists including Brian Kershisnik, Jeffery Pugh, and Mary Sauer.

Founded in 1965, the gallery occupies the historic 1890s First National Bank building, blending original architecture—including a bank vault—with contemporary fine art. New owner and longtime director Adam Hansen says the mission remains unchanged: showcasing outstanding regional talent.

Murray City has officially reopened the Murray Museum inside the restored 1899 John P. Cahoon Mansion. The reopening is part of the city’s “Love, Murray” campaign celebrating local history and culture.

The museum recently earned Preservation Utah’s Rehabilitation & Restoration Award and now invites visitors to explore Murray’s past in a reimagined space. Once a longtime reception center, the mansion has been given new life as a cultural hub.

To celebrate, the city is hosting a community block party May 2 from 3–9 p.m. at Murray City Hall, with live music, food trucks, performances, and vendors.

The newly restored Murray Museum will celebrate its grand opening on Friday, May 2, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Housed in the historic 1899 John P. Cahoon Mansion, the museum aims to serve as a lasting cultural hub for the community.

Opening remarks will be followed by historical reenactments, geocache treasure hunts, a temporary mural at Murray Theater, and more. Festivities continue with the Ultimate Murray City Block Party from 3–9 p.m. at City Hall, featuring live music, food trucks, games, and local vendors.

The iconic Murray City Hall, formerly Arlington Elementary School, is demolished, set to make way for apartments, offices and restaurants.

Ballet West’s The Nutcracker has been officially designated a "Living Historic Landmark" by the Utah Senate, marking the first time in the U.S. a production has received such recognition. Celebrating its 80-year legacy, this historic ballet — the first American production, premiered in 1944 by Ballet West co-founder Willam Christensen — continues to be a cherished holiday tradition in Utah.

This designation highlights The Nutcracker’s cultural and historic significance, honoring its role in bringing generations of families and community members together on stage. Ballet West’s production remains a vital part of Utah’s artistic heritage and a major driver of local tourism and community engagement.

The 1949 Utah Army National Guard Armory in Murray has been transformed into the new Murray Park Armory Events Center. This adaptive reuse project preserves the building’s historic character while creating space for weddings, reunions, and community events.

Funded through park impact fees, the venue opens officially June 2, with a public open house July 4, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Salt Lake City’s Nettie Gregory Center, a key site of local African American history, was recently listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of ongoing restoration efforts. The designation recognizes the center’s historic significance and opens doors for tax credits to support renovation.

The center’s board is planning a capital campaign to restore the building and grounds, aiming to revive it as a vibrant community hub for Salt Lake’s west side. The effort honors Nettie Gregory’s legacy and the many Utahns who built this space of safety and joy.

The Murray City Museum reopens May 2 in the historic John P. Cahoon Mansion, a National Register landmark in downtown Murray’s emerging historic district. Years in the making, the reimagined museum celebrates Murray’s pioneering heritage and community pride.

The opening day features remarks from Mayor Brett A. Hales, live historical reenactments, community art projects, geocache treasure hunts, and an evening block party with music, food trucks, and family activities. The museum aims to be a vibrant cultural hub connecting neighbors and visitors to Murray’s rich history.

At the 2025 Nihon Matsuri festival, Salt Lake City’s Japantown celebrated its culture but faces concerns over a new sports district nearby. Community leaders recall how Japantown was displaced for the Salt Palace in the 1960s and worry the new development could further threaten its heritage.

Festival founder Floyd Mori hopes the project includes more cultural spaces, while Salt Lake Buddhist Temple’s Troy Watanabe fears historic sites will be overshadowed. Both stress the need for true collaboration to protect Japantown’s legacy amid growth.

Utahraptor State Park near Moab, set to open soon, offers more than dinosaur fossils—it preserves a significant and somber piece of history. The park sits on the site of the Moab Isolation Center, where Japanese Americans, including visitor Haruo Kawate’s father, were detained during World War II.

Though only a few concrete remnants remain, the park honors this history through exhibits and stories at its visitor center, highlighting the camp’s legacy alongside its natural wonders. Park officials emphasize the importance of remembering this chapter as part of the broader preservation of the site’s cultural and historical heritage.

As visitors come to explore the park’s trails and fossils, they are also invited to reflect on the human stories preserved here.

Salt Lake City is supporting preservation and revitalization with a $350,000 loan to Himalayan Kitchen as it expands into the historic Engine Block building at 1388 S. 300 West. This funding helps bring new life to the once-industrial site, part of the Shades of Pale project aimed at restoring and repurposing historic buildings in the city.

For over two decades, the Old Sheepherder’s Gathering has united the people who keep the West’s sheep industry alive—from herders and shearers to ranchers and storytellers. This year’s event, held at the Utah Territorial Statehouse in Fillmore, drew 90 attendees to share memories, preserve traditions, and honor the resilient culture of sheep ranching.

Originally founded by Denys Koyle of the Border Inn in Nevada, the gathering has evolved into a heartfelt celebration featuring cowboy poetry, lamb dinners, and storytelling from industry veterans like Hank Vogler of the Needmore Sheep Co. and Joe Frischknecht of Mayfield. Organized today by Friends of the Territorial Statehouse, the event keeps this unique heritage alive, reminding us of the deep connections between land, history, and the people who preserve both.