All posts by Carolyn Wootton

“The Soul of the Native American Artist” to share Native American Perspectives, Heritage

The Soul of the Native American Artist” to share Native American Perspectives, Heritage

MORMON PIONEER NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA (MPNHA)

“The Soul of the Native American Artist” to share Native American perspectives, heritage

Linda Petersen Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area

801-554-7513

Email: linda@bpmedia.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 16, 2015

RICHFIELD—The Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area (MPNHA) will showcase Native Indian artist David K. John in a special two-day event, “The Soul of the Native American Artisan,” at the Richfield City Building, 75 East Center, on Friday, Oct 23 and Saturday, Oct 24.

This free event is open to the public from noon to 5 p.m. on Oct 23 and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 24.

John, a member of the Navajo tribe, is a 1982 Richfield High School graduate who has maintained many ties to the Richfield area. Through his art, John will share with participants the culture and heritage of American Indians, in particular the Navajo tribe.

With this program, the MPNHA seeks to share with the public John’s unique perspectives regarding the natural environment, the earth, cosmos, animal life, aquatic life, dwelling structures and his connection to a deeply holistic spiritual life.

Throughout the event, interactive discussions with the public will be led by project director Emery Polelonema, John and locally known archeologist Craig Harmon, who will give scientific and historical context to John’s native art impressions.

Along with the exhibit and discussions, from noon to 3 on Saturday, Oct. 24, Navajo students from Richfield will share an artistic display of dance.

“We want to educate the public about who we are as Native Artwork in this press release are some examples of the art that will be at the event.

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Americans and what we can contribute to the arts and humanities,” said Polelonema, a Native American and an official with the Six County Association of Governments.

“In popular culture, there is a misconception of the Native American artist as a ‘blanket Indian,’ one who returns to the reservation, who cannot stay out in the mainstream,” he said. “That is a complete misnomer.”

Richfield Mayor David Ogden will speak at the opening of the event at noon on Oct. 23. “We are really excited about David K. John coming back to the Sevier Valley,” Ogden said. “He has some amazing talents which he has put to use and has created beautiful pictures of the world and of Native Americans.”

“We feel so fortunate to have him come back and share it with us here in Richfield. We encourage everyone in the area to come enjoy his artwork and success.”

Organizers hope that this exhibit/showcase will supplement and enhance existing Utah pioneer history with Native American historical information and promote an understanding and appreciation for the rich Native American heritage of the area.

“The Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area’s Management Plan places great emphasis on the rich heritage of Native Americans. Their deep appreciation of our mountains, streams and landscape constitutes the essence of what we stand for as a heritage area,” MPNHA Director Monte Bona said.

“We are especially pleased that our partners at the Utah Humanities Council are participating in this important program.”

This project is sponsored by the Utah Humanities Council and the MPNHA. For more information, contact project director Emery Polelonema at 435-201-9603 or MPNHA director Monte Bona at 801-699-5065.

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About the MPNHA: The Mormon Pioneer Heritage Area is a federally designated area of central and southern Utah running along the beautiful and historic U.S. Highway 89 — including the All-American Road Utah State Route 12, and Capitol Reef Scenic Byway Utah State Route 24, which both intersect with U.S. 89 and together form the MPNHA’s Boulder Loop. The area includes the counties of Sanpete, Sevier, Piute, Wayne, Garfield and Kane.

About the Utah Humanities Council: The works to empower Utahns to improve their communities through active engagement in the humanities. To accomplish this, through its programs and grants it partners with individuals and groups across the state who want to put humanities ideas into actions that have a positive impact on their communities.

5 Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area Towns are Recognized

Posted in Utah October 07, 2015 by

Move to These 14 Towns in Utah if You Want to Get Away From it All

has listed 5 Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area Towns.  This is a great honor to be recognized, of course Director, Monte Bona sates that, “I think that each one of our communities should be recognized as outstanding towns to raise your child or retire. These are just wonderful areas with even better citizens.”

If you live in one of Utah’s larger cities, you might dream of moving somewhere far away from other people. Our state has lots of small, rural towns that offer a much quieter, peaceful existence. Of course, job opportunities, shopping and entertainment are much harder to come by in these little towns. But that’s the point, isn’t it?

Read more..

PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN AND THE MORMONS SHARE A RICH HISTORY

Bryon C. Andreason author of Looking For Lincoln in Illinois series has a new addition to his collection with his newly published book, Looking For Lincoln In Illinois; Lincoln And Mormon Country .  This new book introduces the rich history of the early Mormon leaders and Abraham Lincoln.  This edition contains over thirty amazing stories that connect President Lincoln with the Mormon community and members.

Lincoln and Mormon Country by Bryon C. Andreasen
Lincoln and Mormon Country by Bryon C. Andreasen

It is an honor for the Mormons and the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area to be recognized by the Looking for Lincoln Heritage Coalition and the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area with the publication of Andreason’s latest addition to his popular series.

Andreason amply tells of the great generation of the nineteenth century pioneers and of the Latter-day Saints,  in Nauvoo to the state capital of Springfield.  Included in this publication are maps, historic photos, Mormon expeditions, descriptive battles, interesting events of his travels, the now famous inns in which Lincoln visited.   Also included in the edition are Brigham Young and various Mormon apostles of the time.
The book also includes colorful and engaging looks at key figures such as Brigham Young, various Mormon apostles, and more. Anyone inspired by Lincoln, as well as Mormon and Illinois history enthusiasts, will appreciate this look back at a long-past, but not forgotten, landscape.

 

Those with any interest in the history of the nineteenth century history, Abraham Lincoln, and Mormon history will sure be pleased with his latest publication.

Legends, Lore, & True Tales in Mormon Country Edited by Monte Bona
Legends, Lore, & True Tales in Mormon Country Edited by Monte Bona

There is another interest that the Looking For Lincoln and the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area have in common, it is the recently published book Legends, Lore& True Tales In Mormon Country.  This insightful book was edited by Monte Bona, Director of the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area.

It contains contributions from authors Christian Probasco, Steven J. Clark, Eileen Hallet Stone, James Nelson, Jack C. Billings, Ed Meyer, Jack Monnet, Jason Friedman, and Shirley Bahlmann. These gifted authors have brought to life the exciting life and times in the Mormon Country.

Interesting and beloved stories of Brigham Young, Hiram Bebee, Butch Cassidy, the Sundance Kid, Maude Adams, Chief Walkara, Chief Black Hawk , and Zane Grey’s ghost and numerous other stories. This book is a wonderful addition to your library, our family truly enjoys learning between myth or fact in our new home.

These books are a great Christmas gift for all that have an interest in the Mormon Country, and in President Abraham Lincoln.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area “Discovery Road” to air on UEN

MPNHA-Press-Release-Discovery-Road-Hi-Ways-and-Byways

Linda Petersen

Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area

801-554-7513

Email: linda@bpmedia.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 2, 2015

Utah Education Network TV (UEN) will begin airing “Discovery Road,” a series that grew out of a desire to tell the stories of the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area and its people, on Saturday, Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. UEN broadcasts on Channel 9 in most parts of Utah.

Conceived in 2012, “Discovery Road” is an ongoing series of half hour shows featuring a ‘55 Pontiac affectionately named “Love Me Tender,” which hosts James Nelson and Maryda Nicole Gallo drive along U.S. Highway 89, All-American Road State Route 12 and Scenic Byway State Route 24.

Using music, storytellers and the characters in the communities along the way, the hosts present the history, scenery and culture of the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area in an entertaining and educational manner. “

The whole idea behind the show is to get people to do what they used to do on Sunday afternoons — take a drive,” said MPNHA Executive Director Monte Bona.

UEN-TV Program Manager Kyle Anderson said “Discovery Road” is a great fit for the station. “At UEN our main purpose is to reach to the statewide community,” he said. “Discovery Road is a good local resource with a lot of good stories about Utah and Utah history. It’s very well done and entertaining.”

James Nelson and M. Nicole Gallo driving “Love Me Tender”, a ‘55 Pontiac, outside Spring City on Heritage Day.

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The show’s times lot at 6 p.m. on Saturdays is great for people who are coming in from the outdoors and want to be both educated and entertained, Anderson said.

October schedule: Oct 10, 6 p.m. “Don’t Let Them Be Forgotten”

This episode tracks the Blackham family, who were barely subsisting working in the cotton mills of England’s industrial revolution in the latter 1800s, to joining the LDS church and migrating to Sanpete County. They paved the way for current-day descendents, who are farmers, att orneys, business leaders, musicians, teachers, and politi cians, including present-day mayors of two Sanpete cities.

Oct 17, 6 p.m. “Music Is the Reason”

Welsh pioneers to Zion were sent to Sanpete County to develop a “Coal Bed” (the original name of Wales Town in Sanpete County), bringing with them their native gift of music. The coal ran out, but these musical miners produced both the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Osmond Family, to name just two.

Oct 24, 6 p.m. “The Heritage Experience”

A busload of travel writers heads north from Zion’s National Park along Heritage Highway 89, visiting historic stops along the way, including Mom’s Café in Salina and Clarion, the short-lived Jewish settlement west of Centerfield.

Oct 31, 6 p.m. “Mormon Trail: Black Experience”

Returned Mormon missionary Marcus Ewell discovers his family history includes an ancestor who served in the Mormon Batt alion and another who traveled the Mormon trail. The Discovery Road crew visits Marti ns Cove, Winter Quarters and many other places on their journey to the past. As the visit to yesterday plays out along the trail, a mystery unfolds about who might have been with the Ewell family every step of the way.

**Upcoming shows:

Nov. 7 Mormon Trail – The Forgotten Ones

Nov. 14 Mormon Trail – The Disabled Ones

Nov. 21 Nati ve Americans and Sacred Water

Nov. 28 Filmmakers Shootout in Kane County

Dec. 5 Garfi eld County*

Dec. 12 Scandinavian Show*

Dec. 19 The Dreams I Left Behind* Merrill Osmond joins “Discovery Road” as a guest in “Music is the Reason.”

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After airing on Saturdays, each show will air again at noon the following Wednesday.

“Wherever we go while producing Discovery Road episodes people ask where they might be able to see the shows. When we tell them UEN, they nod approval and tell us that’s a place for good programming. We agree. The programming is diverse, educati onal and entertaining. We are delighted to be a part of it,” said Discovery Road Co-host Maryda Nicole Gallo.

In addition to airing on UEN, “Discovery Road” is running on several stations in central and southern Utah, including CentraCom Interactive’s Channel 10, Manti Telecommunications’ Channel 3 and KTTA in Monroe.

Interested viewers may find out how to access UEN-TV at http://www.uen.org/tv/translators/

*December programming is tentative as Discovery Road has several more episodes in production which may take the place of currently scheduled shows.

** Descriptions of these episodes may be found on the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area, www.mormonpioneerheritage.org/discovery-road-videos.

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About the MPNHA:

The Mormon Pioneer Heritage Area is a federally designated area of central and southern Utah running along the beautiful and historic U.S. Highway 89 — including the All-American Road Utah State Route 12, and Capitol Reef Scenic Byway Utah State Route 24, which both intersect with U.S. 89 and together form the MPNHA’s Boulder Loop. The area includes the counties of Sanpete, Sevier, Piute, Wayne, Garfield and Kane.

About UEN: The Utah Education Network was established more than 20 years ago by the Utah State Legislature to coordinate telecommunications technology for public and higher education. UEN infrastructure serves public education, higher education, applied technology, libraries, government, and other public entities by providing networking, application and support services, serving a vital role in anticipating and meeting the educational needs of our state.

Jewish Community Of Clarion To Be Memorialized In Gunnison, Utah

MPNHA-Press-Release-Clarion-EXTENDED

Linda Petersen

Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area

801-554-7513

Email: linda@bpmedia.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sept. 11, 2015

Jewish community of Clarion to be memorialized in Gunnison

Gunnison, Utah (Sept. 11, 2015) — Residents of Gunnison Valley are pleased to memorialize an almost forgotten piece of Jewish history in Utah.

What: Clarion historic marker unveiling and program

Where: Legacy Plaza, Main & Center Streets, Gunnison

When: Friday, Sept. 25, 6 p.m.

The story of the ill-fated Jewish Agricultural and Colonial Associati on’s agricultural colony in Clarion, five miles southwest of Gunnison, will be summarized in a historic marker on Gunnison’s Legacy Plaza. The historic marker will be unveiled on Friday, Sept. 25 at 6 p.m.

“The colonization of Clarion was an important part of the history of Gunnison Valley. The Clarion Legacy Kiosk, placed in Gunnison’s Legacy Plaza, will recognize that contribution and stand as a lasting tribute to the courage and determination of the Jewish people of Clarion,” said Lori Nay, former mayor of Gunnison who helped orchestrate the project.

The ceremony will include original music from the Clarion Centennial Pageant of 2011 performed by Clive Romney of Utah Heritage Arts, remarks by dignitaries and refreshments.

Speakers will include Gunnison Mayor Bruce Blackham, Councilman Robert Anderson, Jerry Klinger (Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation), Monte Bona (Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area) and Dr. Robert A. Goldberg, (author of “Back to the Soil: The Jewish Farmers of Clarion, Utah, and Their World”).

Artist rendering of kiosks to be unveiled Sept. 25 in Gunnison. –

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In 1911, Benjamin Brown and 11 other Russian Jewish immigrants arrived in Utah as part of a national movement among Jews to return to the soil. Brown and other community leaders had purchased property from the Utah State Board of Land Commissioners after being disappointed by high land prices in New Mexico and Colorado.

At the turn of the century the Jewish immigrant population in New York and Philadelphia was looking for a way out of the poverty-filled tenements. Brown and others hoped a return to the land would free Jews from the poverty of the cities and allow them to be self-reliant. The Clarion colony was one of 40 that sprang up across the U.S. around that time.

Brown and association partner Isaac Herbst had purchased a 6,000-acre parcel of land with water rights for $69,000, with 10 percent down and a 10-year balance. The 5-mile-long-by-3-mile-wide property was a half mile from the Sevier River and close to the expected route of the future Piute Canal.

They were led to believe that it was “choice, arable land,” but soon discovered that it was instead clay-based and difficult to cultivate. Still they moved forward, planting oats, corn, alfalfa and wheat.

Over the next five years, the colony, which they named Clarion, struggled to survive. More immigrants arrived, and the community grew to 200 people. But the colony was doomed from the start.

Just two of the colonists had any farming experience. The community lacked sufficient water for the crops, even when the promised Piute Canal was brought out to Clarion. When they built a cistern to store water for livestock it collapsed because it had been improperly constructed.

The first-year crops were so meager that the community could not make its loan payment, but Brown and got an extension from the state, a loan from the Gunnison Bank and $5,000 from Utah Colonization Fund bonds purchased by Salt Lake City’s Jewish population, along with $2,000 in donated lumber.

That kept the colony going, but extreme weather conditions took their toll. The colonists, who had been led to believe that the climate in Sanpete County was temperate, were surprised by heavy snowfall the first winter, subsequent heavy summer storms and runoff, and the area’s short growing season.

Neighboring Mormon farmers greeted the colonists with a welcoming dinner, and over the life of Clarion, shared harvesting and threshing chores. They shared the drought years too, but being accustomed to local conditions, the Mormons had an easier time.

At a 2011 Clarion reunion, Allen Frandsen of Centerfield speaks with former Clarion resident Lillian Brown Vogel, who was 102 at the time. Clarion was the daughter of the settlement’s founder, Benjamin Brown. Vogel lived in Clarion until she was five years old.

The challenges facing Jewish settlers who came to Clarion in the early 1900s with virtually no farming experience were many, and, to honor their perserverance, a memorial plaque will be unveiled on Friday, Sept. 25, in Gunnison. –

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In November 1915, the State Land Board foreclosed on the Jewish property and most residents were forced to leave Clarion. Most returned to the East but several remained in Utah as farmers, entrepreneurs, and merchants. Benjamin Brown, for example, founded Utah Poultry Producers Coop which became Norbest and IFA, and Maurice Warshaw established the Grand Central stores in Salt Lake City.

Despite the hardships, many of the colony’s families retained positive memories of their experiences in Clarion that have been passed along to their descendants.

Utah author Eileen Hallet Stone wrote a telling and touching story about Clarion in “Legends, Lore and True Tales in Mormon Country,” published by The History Press. She concludes her chapter with this insight: “Today, Clarion is a fragment of history. Its land still lies fallow. But the memories of Jewish farmers adapting to a new world, learning a new language, taking great risks and earning a new life remain miraculously intact.”

Mormon Pioneer Nati onal Heritage Area Director Monte Bona said, “The Mormon Pioneer Nati onal Heritage Area keeps those memories alive by establishing a memorial to the brave Jewish pioneers who gave their all in the pursuit of a Utopian dream. May that dream never die in the hearts of their descendants and all people who honor the courage, faith and hope of those who dare to do great things even when failure looms. Picking up, starting over, learning and moving on to new horizons and new experiences constitute the essence of what it took to colonize the West.”

The historic marker pays tribute to all the colonists, to their courage, strength and determination, and to their lasting impact on Gunnison Valley and Utah.

For more information, contact MPNHA Director Monte Bona at 801-699-50657 or Project Director Lori Nay.

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The Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area includes 400 miles of glorious scenic byways, a vast array of wildlife, the best of western living cattle and sheep ranches, and colorful mountain vistas, all within a trip on Utah Heritage Highway 89.

Manti City Celebrates LDS Tabernacle Restoration with Open House

MPNHA-Press-Release-Manti-Tabernacle-2015
MORMON

 

PIONEER NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA (MPNHA)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WHAT: Manti City celebrates LDS Tabernacle Restoration with Open House

WHEN: Sept. 12-13, 2015

CONTACT: Monte Bona 435-462-9002

WRITTEN BY: Linda Petersen

Manti celebrates LDS Tabernacle Restoration with Open House

A prime example of Mormon pioneer architecture has been restored in Manti. The historic Manti Tabernacle, which was dedicated in 1903 by Joseph F. Smith, has just undergone a 15-month renovation and will be open for the public to tour two days next week. The tabernacle will be rededicated Sept. 13 at 12:30 p.m.

The tabernacle, which is listed on the national historic register, is one of only three 19th-century LDS Church houses still in use as a meeting house. “The tabernacle stands as a glowing example of the tenacity, grit and skill of the Mormon pioneers who played an important role in the colonization of the West,” said Mormon Pioneer Nati onal Heritage Area Director Monte Bona.

“The Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area greatly appreciates the commitment that has been made to maintain the character and significance of this magnificent edifice that exemplifies what we hope to preserve as a national heritage area.”

“In our modern age, when its sometimes more expedient to remove old structures and replace them with economical new ones, this act represents a major commitment by the LDS Church to honor the faith of its founding membership,” he said.

The open house, where the public can tour the restored tabernacle, will be held Friday, Sept. 11 and Saturday, Sept. 12 from 3 to 7 p.m.  The building will be rededicated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Area Seventy Elder Michael Jensen on Sunday, Manti Tabernacle Sept. 2015, after renovations are completed, Sept. 13 at 12:30 p.m.

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The tabernacle has a rich pioneer history. In 1860, the impoverished Manti LDS church members laid its foundation, but delayed organizing a tabernacle construction committee for 17 years.

Work was ongoing on the Manti Temple, which was constructed from 1875-1888, during the same time period and most of the pioneers’ limited resources were used for that endeavor. It was finally completed in 1903.

“We are pleased to see this magnificent historic tabernacle rehabilitated with such care and skill,” said Don Hartley, Utah Division of State History historical architect.

“It was constructed in the late 1870s and has signifiance not just for Manti and Sanpete County, but churchwide as a symbol of faith and courage. For the Mormon pioneers in Manti to build both a temple and tabernacle possessing such architectural signifiance, and at such great material sacrifice and cost when even their own survival wasn’t a sure thing, reflects their devotion.

For the setters who worked on this building and maybe didn’t write letters or keep journals, this is their testimony, rendered in stone, still speaking to us across the generations.”

“It’s really significant that the church decided to do this restoration,” said Matthew Christensen, manager for the LDS church’s Manti, Utah facilities group, said. “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints places great value on these historic structures which stand as a testimony to the skill, craftsmanship and the many sacrifies made by the early saints.”

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The tabernacle, which was designed by William H. Folsom, the architect for the temple, had two additions to the main structure in 1927 and 1958.

When the structure was built, the early Manti church members did not have the funds to include decorative fascias and soffits on the building. However, in anticipation of a time when they could add them, they left nailer strips embedded near the top of the north and south exterior walls and on the east and west gables.

“They didn’t know how long it would be before they would be able to have the money for them so the strips were left exposed for decades after completion,” Christensen said.

While renovating the exterior, the project team and the church historical department decided to leave the nailer strips exposed to help tell the story about how the building was constructed, Christensen said.

The original structure and the later additions have all been reroofed and the attic has been insulated to modern standards. To complete the exterior upgrade, new landscaping and site irrigation have been installed.

Inside, particular attention has been paid to restoring the chapel. The original fir timber columns of the 1920’s balcony were cored out and steel beams were inserted into the columns to maintain their historic integrity while stabilizing the structure.

Cracked walls in the chapel have been replaced, and the historic Christ at the Well mural and wall finishes have been restored.

Period finishes such as a 1900’s-style chandelier, carpets, paint, pew fabrics and wood and plaster finishes have been installed throughout the tabernacle.

For more information, contact MPNHA Director Monte Bona at 801-699-5065 or Matthew Christensen, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Manti, Utah facilities group manager, at 435-835-8887.

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The Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area includes 400 miles of glorious scenic byways, a vast array of wildlife, the best of western living, cattle and sheep ranches, and colorful mountain vistas, all within a trip on Utah Heritage Highway 89.

Read more..

A Great Honor Paid to Monte Bona, Director of the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area

Monte Bona receives the Pioneers in Progress Award
Monte Bona receives the Pioneers in Progress Award

July 30, 2015 12:15 am  •  Cheryl K. Brewer The Pyramid

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MT. PLEASANT—Monte Bona, who has been a member of the Mt. Pleasant City Council for over 20 years, has had many opportunities to pat himself on the back over the years for his many accomplishments.

But Bona is not that way, he prefers to work “under the radar” so to speak and “keep a low profile”.

Most recently Bona received a great honor during the Days of ’47 Pioneers of Progress Awards ceremony in the historic and creative arts category for his vision of preserving historic buildings and taking the “seed” of an idea that later turned Highway 89 into becoming a national area designation. Bona currently serves as Director of the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area (MPNHA).

As far back as 1994 the National Trust for Historic Preservation told Bona there was a story to tell about the colonization and architecture along Highway 89 which turned into the Sanpete Heritage Council and later the MPNHA which spans 400 miles within central and southern Utah.

Senator Bob Bennett sponsored the bill and with the help of Representatives Chris Cannon and Jim Matheson, the bill was passed in July 2006 and signed into law by President George W. Bush in October of that year. Others who played key roles in the designation were Wilson Martin, former director of the Utah Division of State History and Brad Shafer, a member of Bennett’s staff. The management plan was approved by the Secretary of the Interior in March 2010.

“The award was given in honor of the Mormon pioneers. There are 49 designation national heritage areas in the U.S. We are the only one named after a people. The Pioneers of Progress Awards go to individuals, not organizations. I agreed to accept the award on behalf of all of our partners in the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area,” said Bona.

Since the designation, Bona has worked with great partners including the Utah Division of State History assisting in the restoration of many historical buildings along the corridor. In Mt. Pleasant alone, because of the fundraising efforts of Wasatch Academy, there have been two buildings restored, the First Presbyterian Church, which is also used as a music conservatory for Wasatch Academy, and Liberal Hall, which was the first home of Wasatch Academy and now a museum.

Along the strip, two Carnegie libraries in Mt. Pleasant and Ephraim; Casino Star Theater, Gunnison; Peterson Dance Hall, Fairview; a historic plaza at Snow College, Ephraim; and a monument of the Quilt Walk, Panguitch; are just a few restoration and developments that have taken place.

Bona has also promoted the area with television productions, the Black Hawk War, and programs, such as Discovery Road, seen on KJZZ and UEN, and most recently a new book edited by him entitled, Legends, Lore & True Tales in Mormon Country. Local writers include Jason Friedman, Steve Clark, Jack Monnett and Shirley Bahlmann. The book is available at Amazon and locally at Skyline Pharmacy, Mt. Pleasant.

Although Bona chose to not seek re-election to the Mt. Pleasant City Council this year, he plans to remain an active participant with the many projects in continuing with the MPNHA.  He is also heavily involved with the Mt. Pleasant Main Street Committee, which serves as the executive committee of the Community Development and Renewal Agency (CDRA)

In the beginning the assessed evaluation in the CDRA was $6M and is currently set at about $23M. By 2018 when the designation expires, Bona hopes the value will be in the neighborhood of $30M.

Bona has also received awards from the Utah Heritage Foundation, Utah Division of State History Outstanding Contribution and the Regional Recognition Award from Utah’s Six County Association of Governments.

The Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In Utah for 2015

A new selection of Utah small towns has been compiled and posted on 30 July, 2015 in Utah by Catherine Rees.  Rees, a lifelong resident of Utah, is a writer, researcher and observer of the human condition.
Photo courtesy of Randee Ryan
Photo courtesy of Randee Ryan

Of the list, Mt. Pleasant, in Sanpete County, Kanab, in Kane County, and Monroe, in Sevier County are in the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area.  Utah is a beautiful state with many charming towns, magnificent landscape, and overflowing in rich history.  If you are a resident of this amazing state, might we suggest that you get to know your state, learn all there is to know, and enjoy her natural resources.  If you are wanting to visit Utah we highly recommend our state as one that will delight you with all that she has to offer.

Balloon festival SalinaUtah’s abundant outdoor recreation will certainly thrill all  that share in the experiences she provides.  You will be delighted with Utah’s year round activities.  Come visit Utah and don’t forget to take a memorable trip along Utah Heritage Highway 89; in the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area.
Echo-Canyon-1866The Mormon pioneers who settled in these remote areas, fought many battles with the elements, sacrificed beyond measure, endured countless hardships to leave la worthy legacy for those who followed.  Is it any wonder the state reveres its diverse history and honors the their contribution in declaring 24 July Pioneer Day throughout the state.
Parade in Manti Pioneer Days
Parade in Manti Pioneer Days

Pioneer Days is a great time to visit Utah but don’t wait, visit Utah over and over to really experience all that Utah has to offer.  Experience the enchantment of small town living in this great and beautiful state all within a short distance of the larger metropolitan cities. Where small town charm and rich pioneer traditions coexist to provide an environment unlike any other.

Visit Utah, Experience Utah, Utah where the western way of life thrives, and the small town charm is ever present!

Here Are The Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In Utah

Utah has grown by leaps and bounds in the last few decades; once small towns have grown to medium-sized ones (at least by Utah standards). Of course, you can still find many beautiful little towns across the state. This list isn’t meant to be a “Best Of.” It’s simply a list of a few small towns we think are great (in no particular order!). We chose towns with populations between 612 and 5,130, though many residents living in towns with populations of 10,000 or even 20,000 might enjoy that small-town atmosphere.

 

Mt. Pleasant Hub City Days 4th of July 2015

Each year Mt. Pleasant hosts the Hub City Days in the Little Denmark District.  The events surrounding the 4th of July attract around 10,000 spectators in a small rural setting of 2,700 residents.

Flag in the 4th of July '15 parade
Photo Courtesy of Randy Wootton

The presentation of the flag brings everyone to their feet.

Mayor David Blackham driving vintage Ford tractor pulling the City Council Members in the 4th of July Parade
Mayor David Blackham driving vintage Ford tractor pulling the City Council Members in the 4th of July Parade. Photo Courtesy of Randy Wootton

This year the citizens were treated with the Mt. Pleasant Mayor, David Blackman driving his vintage 1949 Ford Tractor pulling the City Council Members.  There of course, is candy a plenty thrown from the various floats to the crowd.

To kick off the festivities, the PRCA, Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association sponsors a rodeo on the 3rd and 4th of July.   The city of Mt. Pleasant hosts a Rodeo Fun Night

—Games on Horseback at Mt Pleasant Rodeo – Free admission for a variety of games for children and adults to enjoy on the 2nd of July.  Here you will get in the spirit of the cowboy life in Sanpete County with horse games, calf pull, stick horse races, hide races, barrel riding, and musical tires on horse back.  The video clips of the festivities courtesy of Randy Wootton.

On the 4th of July the day starts Breakfast in the Park Cancer Fun Run: $5—Free t-shirts. Tennis Tournament—High School Tennis courts. Doubles & singles  Book Sale, chess & checkers on Library Lawn. Children’s Parade—Mammoth Parade—Mt. Pleasant City Park: Entertainment, Craft/Food Booths all day  Free games, prizes & wagon rides in park by Youth City Council “Best Pie in Mt. Pleasant” contest—$100 prize—. Hub City Rodeo—Mt. Pleasant Rodeo Arena (Mutton Bustin’).   This year, there were 90 entries for the parade.  Following the rodeo fireworks in the park.

2015-Hub-City-Days-Rodeo-194x300

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Mountain Man Rendezvous is in the city park with muzzle loader shoot-outs, exhibits, trading, displays, candy cannon explosions, tomahawk and knife throwing contests, frying pan tossing, dutch oven cook off, kids games, native American dancers, historical reenactments and more. Participants camp out in authentic teepees and wall tents during the three day event. Spectators are always welcome.

 

The Mormon Miracle Pageant in Manti, Utah

Miracle pagaent

June 18-20, 23-27, 2015

Every June comes an experience of dance, drama, music, and a cast totaling over 800 performing on a stage that is larger than a football field.  This compelling story of ancient American history comes alive in dramatic scenes that tells of the classic battle of good over evil.  The many characters in this pageant will remain with you long after the last performance, perhaps will stay with you always.  Here you will be introduced to the likes of Ammon, Captain Moroni, King Lamoni. Mormon, Samuel the Lamanite and many more.

Mormon Miracle Pageant
Mormon Miracle Pageant

The pageant is right off the Utah Heritage Highway 89,  where the scene settings unfold under the starlit night with the exquisite Manti Temple sitting stately before the audience.  From the east there is the beauty of the landscape maybe as it was in ancient times when the inhabitants of the pageant lived and died.  Here you will visit the reenactment of the resurrected Christ visit these ancient people that will be depicted in the Mormon Miracle Pageant.

 

Christ visits the laminites

Here you will see the resurrected Christ appear after the great destruction that followed His crucifixion.  He will heal the sick, and bless the children.  You will learn how the sacred records were preserved in this, our time.

These ancient records are provided to Joseph Smith and the people that God has come together to help Joseph translate and publish the Book of Mormon.  Through the story of fictional characters Robert and Mary Henshaw, you will experience their struggle as they search for religious truth. In the awe inspiring finale, you will come to know the overpowering knowledge that love and families are eternal.

Manti-Pageant-580

The saga of the Mormon Miracle Pageant unfolds at the base of the magnificent Sanpete, Manti LaSal Mountains, with the fresh, cool canyon breeze, and the canopy of the evening stars preparing a perfect night for the performance to begin.  Major enhancements have been made for a more enjoyable experience such as new sets, newly staged scenes, and new costumes.

manti-pageant-733x436-7manti

This year the most awaited scene of the resurrected Christ’s appearance to the ancient people on the American continent will be included this year in the pageant.  The Mormon Miracle Pageant will share with you and your family another testament of Christ.

While food is allowed on the Manti Temple grounds, please clean up and carry out any garbage that you have brought in with you.  There are several fast food facilities close by the pageant location

For pageant information, call 1-866-961-9040 . The Sanpete County Travel Council, 345 West 100 North, Ephraim, UT 84627, 435-283-4321 or 800-281-4346 has further information about the local area. Many families camp at local parks and campgrounds. We urge all pageant visitors to strictly observe speed limits and traffic laws. Please, treat the private property of local residents with respect.

Memorial Day Honoring Family and Traditions

mt. Pleasant Cemetery graves

Memorial Day has always been a family tradition.  No matter where we moved,  we always went to the family cemetery to honor our family.  Decorating the graves was a responsibility my father would say “someday you will take on this responsibility and teach it to your children.”

Well, here we are as grandparents taking our wonderful grandchildren to the graves of family members to honor them.  What I saw this year was a wonderful example of the past and the present.  Grandchildren reverently placing flowers on the graves of family members that are six and seven generations past.

This year there was more joy as we spent the day together talking to the children, telling them stories.  We focused on the living and the funny family stories of the past.  We still missed those who have preceded us, but it was a sweet remembering this year.  What does bring tears to my eyes is the respect, reverence, and the United States flags flying high to honor our fallen military men and women.

Cadets, alumni and volunteers from St. Thomas Academy worked with Fort Snelling National Cemetery staff to put up hundreds of American flags ahead of the Memorial Day weekend, on Wednesday, May 21, 2014 . (Pioneer Press: Scott Takushi)
Cadets, alumni and volunteers from St. Thomas Academy worked with Fort Snelling National Cemetery staff to put up hundreds of American flags ahead of the Memorial Day weekend, on Wednesday, May 21, 2014 . (Pioneer Press: Scott Takushi)

There is truly something amazing beyond description that seeing lanes lined with the United States flying.  I am proud to be an American, I am proud that my father was a WWII Veteran.  I am proud that my husband was a Viet Nam Veteran.  I am proud of all those who have offered their lives for the freedom our country represents.  I am proud of those who continue to fight for our freedom, and pray that someday they will all come home.  I pray that we will be able to continue to represent a land of opportunity, one where we all live in peace and in times of peril, there will continue to be brave men and women who feel as deeply as those of past days and take their ranks in the military.

I pledge Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America; and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.

Mt Pleasant flags

I am so grateful that the cemeteries in the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area, no matter how small that they might be, flew the United States of American Flag proudly for those who gave their lives for all that this great nation!

 

13TH ANNUAL RAT FINK 2015 REUNION

Ed "Big Daddy" Roth
Ed “Big Daddy” Roth

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13th Annual ED “BIG DADDY” ROTH’S RAT FINK REUNION

June 4th thru 6th, 2015 at 404 East 300 North, Manti, UT

ratfinkreunionCAR SHOW SATURDAY JUNE 6th! 8A.M Manti City Park 200 N 400 W, Manti

Parade of show cars car show in Manti

Manti’s Main Street 5 pm Car, Truck & Bike Show

In the world or hot rodding, Big Daddy Roth was a legend.  He was one of the founders of Kustom Kulture.  He was the renowned creator of one-of-a -kind hot rods.  As creator of a little green rat, Rat Fink, he epitomizes hot rodding.  His little green monster designs still appeal to both the young and the old.

Ed Roth’s artwork appeared in underground comics in the 1980’s and the middle of the 1990’s.  Many classify his work as fine art, and can be seen in art galleries.

Mr Roth passed away in 2001.  His passion continues on with the dedication his wife Ilene Roth has to carry on his legacy.

The Reunion hosts many events fun for the entire family.  Come to Manti, Utah on Utah Heritage Highway 89 for a fun family event.

 

 

 

Legends, Lore and True Tales in Mormon Country (American Legends) By Monte Bona

 

legends lore and true tales in mormon country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Monte Bona, along with the collaborative efforts of talented professionals have given us an authentic view of those brave men, women and children who left their homes, family, wealth, and country to establish the communities in South Central Utah.

The powerful stories of the early settlers in the region that is now identified by the Congressional designation as the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area, are touching, informative, and compelling

These pioneers certainly left a legacy that illustrates a structure that was steeped in  codes of conduct, traditions, and  principles that everyone embraced for the sole purpose of succeeding in a somewhat hostile environment.  Their stories come to life as you read of their inventiveness, cooperation,  conscientiousness, and pure resilience.     You will also be moved stories of with miracles that occurred..

Many may be interested to learn that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or Mormons were not the only secular group that assisted with the settling  of Utah.   Jewish settlements, and contributions of a Presbyterian Minister, were instrumental.   There were great sacrifices, large doses of humility, and traditional morals that were all combined to make their efforts a true success.

I have a great appreciation for the time intensive work completed by Monte Bona that has gone into producing Legends, Lore and True Tales in Mormon Country (American Legends).  It is commendable that such an undertaking has been made to tell their stories. What a great job he has done!

The pictures are an added bonus, they help to recreate the trials, tribulations and the triumphs of  the early pioneers.  Mr. Bona has done a tremendous job in compiling this must have book for those who seek to find their family history, and a great resource for future generations.  Without a doubt this is a book that you will read, reread, share, and  retell the stories, legends, lore and true tales to everyone.  I highly recommend this book to all who seek the true tales in Mormon Country.

 

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Bryce Canyon National Park, The Wonder of the “Hoodoos”

Bryce Canyon is another great National Park that has beauty beyond description, come experience the wonder during National Park Week.

Bryce Canyon Natural Bridge Photo Courtesy of Pam Burt and Utah.com
Bryce Canyon Natural Bridge Photo Courtesy of Pam Burt and Utah.com

Ebenezer Bryce, a Mormon pioneer assisted in the settlement of southwestern Utah and northern Arizona.  He came to the area in 1875 to harvest timber and live.  He settled behind what is now Bryce Canyon National Park, located in the southwestern part of the state of Utah.  His neighbors would call the canyon behind his home “Bryce’s Canyon.”  In 1928 it was given the designation of a state park. Bryce Canyon National Park is a small park, 56 square miles, by the standards of the National Parks.Bryce Canyon in the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area

What is famous about Bryce Canyon?

Bryce Canyon, with its acclaimed geology, countless colors of varying hues, and amphitheaters shaped as horseshoes, cut out the eastern edge of  the Paunsaugunt Plateau in southern Utah.    With the power of nature the rainwater and the frost moisture dissolved to shape and affect the color of the limestone to create various shapes of “hoodoos,” slot canyons, windows, spires, and fins.  The miraculous natural tinting of the stones and a power that is unexplanable, has colored and arranged capriciously the rocks to have created a wonderland landscape of mazes.  Those that have taken a walk along this wonderland have experienced a memorable and exciting memory.

Bryce Canyon National Park Photo Courtesy of Kreig Rasmussen Photograpy
Bryce Canyon National Park Photo Courtesy of Kreig Rasmussen Photograpy

With the meadows located in the high elevations of the plateau, the foliage is abundant  and the wildlife flourishes.  The plateau has also been deemed as one of the world’s best air quality.  The rim affords a panoramic view of approximately 200 miles in a three state radius.  It is also known as one of the best stargazing locations due to a very small light sources.

Bryce Canyon Forest Photo Courtesy of Pam Burt and Utah.com
Bryce Canyon Forest Photo Courtesy of Pam Burt and Utah.com

The marvel of the “hoodoos” were described by the Paiutes as the “Legend People” that were turned to stone by Coyote.  The geological term for “hoodoo” is a pillar of rock, usually fantastic shape, left by erosion.  It is also known that “hoodoo” means to cast a spell.

Fairyland Point Photo Courtesy of Pam Burt and Utah.com
Fairyland Point Photo Courtesy of Pam Burt and Utah.com

Within the Bryce Canyon National Park, erosion has been created with the fun, whimsical  “hoodoos.”  Geologists have an answer, they state that millions of years ago whatever forces were present on Mother Earth, moved these cute enormous objects that were named Aquarius and Paunsaugunt Plateaus.  Today, the rock layers of the Aquarius now reach 2,000 feet above the Paunsaugunt’s same layers.

Aquarius Plateau in Bryce Canyon National Park Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service
Aquarius Plateau in Bryce Canyon National Park Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service

The ancient rivers’ flow took to carving out the tops and formed the edges of the large rocks.  Layers were removed and this brought about the chiseling and sculpted forms.  This brought about the creation of the Paria Valley and then later caused the widening of the plateaus.

Thor's Hammer Photo Courtesy of Pam Burt and Utah.com
Thor’s Hammer Photo Courtesy of Pam Burt and Utah.com

No matter what the cause, these wondrous shapes have certainly cast their spell for all that have ever visited, and those that wish to visit.

Hiking trail to Mossy Cave Photo Courtesy of Pam Burt and Utah.com
Hiking trail to Mossy Cave Photo Courtesy of Pam Burt and Utah.com

Come experience the beauty and wonder of this magnificent landscape that only exists in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Share your favorite story and photos, upload your photos on your social media #findyourpark #findyourstory.

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“ONE OF THE NATURAL WONDERS OF THE WORLD” ZION NATIONAL PARK

Natural Wonders of the World: America’s top five National Parks

Zion National Park Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service
Zion National Park Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service

There is never a better time to begin your Zion National Park Adventure.  As one of the Natural Wonders of the World: America’s top five National Parks; it is on many lists of must see places, including National Geographic Top Ten National Park Landmarks.  There are numerous reasons to visit this world wonder and all of them will fascinate the imagination and leave you breathless at the magnificent views and experience in the park.

Zion National Park Visitors Center Photo Courtesy of National Park Service
Zion National Park Visitors Center Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

Zion Canyon Visitor Center:

Here you will get maps and permits you will need for your exploration of the canyon. Rangers are available to assist you and answer any questions  you may have. There are two  main campgrounds,  gift shops, restaurants, and other attractions.  Here you will find The Watchman trail head.  The towering Watchman, stands some 2500ft/1995m above the canyon floor to keep watch over and protect the canyon.

Zion Museum:

You will certainly want to visit the Zion Museum to learn the creation of Zion Canyon.  Millions of years of erosion left these magnificent Navajo sandstone towers and cliffs. Zion Canyon is but one of the steps in the Grand Staircase that begins at the Grand Canyon and ends at Bryce Canyon.

Court of the Patriarchs Zion National Park
Court of the Patriarchs Zion National Park

Court of the Patriarchs:

With just a short hike, you will come to the base of three sandstone monoliths.  These are named after the ancient old testament patriarchs: Abraham, Issac, and Jacob. From here you can access the Sand Bench Trail, which will take you along the Virgin River to the Zion Lodge.

Zion Lodge Photo Courtesy of the Zion Lodge
Zion Lodge Photo Courtesy of the Zion Lodge

Zion Lodge:

The Zion Lodge lies in the heart of Zion Canyon.  Here you will find gift shops and food service. 

Upper Emerald Pools NPhoto Courtesy of National Park Servide
Upper Emerald Pools Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

Emerald Pools Trailhead:

The trail head to the three Emerald Pools begins at the Zion Lodge.  You can see the reflection of the surrounding cliffs as you look across these crystal clear pools.

 

Angels Landing Photo Courtesy of National Park Servide
Angels Landing Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

The Grotto- Angels Landing & West Rim Trailhead:

One of the most spectacular hikes in Zion,  begins here.  This hike up to Angels Landing is an experience that stops those faint hearted and with a fear of heights.  The 2,000 foot shear cliffs that drop off from both sides of the narrow trail, require a good deal of steal in the bravery department, as you approach the top.  Although this is a psychological and physical test, the view of the canyon floor from the heights above  is certainly well worth the hike.

Weeping Rock Photo Courtesy of National Park Servide
Weeping Rock Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

Weeping Rock- Observation Point Trailhead:

An amazing sight is that of the porous Navajo sandstone monoliths.  Water pervades down through the sandstone and as it reaches impermeable layers that allow the water to flow horizontal until it seeps to the face of the cliffs.  Thus is the case of the Weeping Rock.

Big Bend Photo Courtesy of National Park Servide
Big Bend Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

Big Bend – The Organ:

Big Bend will  have you standing at the base of a 2,000ft/6,010m shear cliff on the north side of Angels Landing.   A 1,100ft Monolith “Organ” (resembling a pipe organ) stands here at the edge of the Virgin River.

Temple of Sinawava Photo Courtesy of National Park Servide
Temple of Sinawava Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

Temple of Sinawava- Riverside Walk-

Is the end of the canyon road, and the beginning of the Riverside trail.  It winds along the banks of the Virgin River which  ends at “The Narrows.”

The Narrows Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service
The Narrows Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service

The Narrows–

Is a one way 16 mile hike through the narrow canyons of the Virgin River.  The towering steep cliffs over 1,000 feet high surround you.

The Great White Throne Photo Courtesy of National Park Servide
The Great White Throne Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

The Riverside Trail

will allow you to go as far as you wish.  The many famous Zion Park photographs are taken in Zion Canyon.  These include the Patriarchs, the Great White Throne, and scenes along the Virgin River.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outdoor Activities include:

  • Biking
  • Camping
  • Canyoneer
  • Climbing
  • Golf
  • Hiking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Off Road / ATV
  • Ski
  • Snowboarding

Share your favorite story and photos, upload your photos on your social media #findyourpark #findyourstory.

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CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK

Sunset from the Sunset Point area at Capitol Reef Ray Mathis/NPS
Sunset from the Sunset Point area at Capitol Reef
Ray Mathis/NPS

Capitol Reef National Park, in the Boulder Loop District of the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area is all that one would expect from a visit.  There is an abundance of  history of the Fremont People, the earliest dwellers who were farmers and hunters, dating back to 700 AD.  The area being fertile land due to the lakes and streams made for abundant hunting and fishing, and rich farmland.

Their heritage relates them to the Ancestral Puebloans but they disappeared from the area about 1250 AD.  Fortunately, these Native Americans left their records on the rock and the canyon walls.

Native Americans and Sacred Water Discovery Road
Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the 1600’s the Paiute Indians took over the lands.  Here the Paiute’s enjoyed all the riches that the area possessed.  In the 1800’s the first pioneers located this rich land and began to establish a settlement.  By 1872, the territory was no longer an uncharted area, it had been officially documented and explored

Around the 1920’s Joseph S. Hickman and Ephraim Portman wanted to preserve the natural beauty of the area so they came together to create the “Wayne Wonderland Club” to preserve and promote the area.

Fruita, Utah in 1931
Fruita, Utah in 1931

Hickman was elected to the Utah State legislature, and 16 acres in the Fruita township were designated to the status of a Utah State Park.  In 1937 it reached the status as a national monument by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.  It received its national park status in 1971 under the Richard M. Nixon Presidency.

Pinyon
Pinyon Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service

Capitol Reef National Park supports  an assortment of distinctive ecosystems.  The 900 species of flora and fauna, the animals, the geology, and the environmental features make the park so diverse.

Mountain Lion Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service
Mountain Lion Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service

Most popular sites and unique formations:

The Waterpocket Fold is the most distinguishing feature in the park, a 100-mile long classic monocline uplifted 7000 feet on the west side.

Waterpocket Fold aerial view Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service
Waterpocket Fold aerial view Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service

Capitol Dome is a massive white sandstone formation that resembles the U.S. Capitol building. The park was partly named for this landmark.

Chimney Rock is a towering 400-foot-tall sandstone pillar, located three miles west of the visitor center off Highway 24 and accessible via a short hiking trail.

Hickman Bridge is a huge natural arch spanning 133 feet wide and 125 feet tall. The arch is named after Joseph S. Hickman, an early advocate for Capitol Reef’s preservation.

The Castle Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service
The Castle Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service

The Castle, an impressive craggy sandstone formation visible from Highway 24.

Cassidy Arch, a pink Kayenta sandstone arch spanning 50 feet, above the Grand Wash. Accessible by a moderate three-mile round trip hike.

The Bentonite Hills are round formations with a checkerboard facade, located 9 miles from River Ford.

Bentonie Hills Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service
Bentonie Hills Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service

Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Moon and The Walls of Jericho are some of the massive monoliths (standing 400 to 500 feet high) located in the scenic Cathedral Valley.

Gypsum Sinkhole, is a 200-foot deep sinkhole, 50 feet in diameter, near the Cathedral Valley Junction.

Share your favorite story and photos invite upload photos on your social media  #findyourpark #findyourstory

Check out the National Park Service plan your visit to get the most of your experience.

 

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National Park Week

Bryce Canyon in the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage AreaApril 18, 2015 is the kick off of National Park Week.  The National Park Service announces that it has again partnered with the National Park Foundation for National Park Week.  This Presidentally acclaimed celebration of the United States’ national heritage offers free admission to all National Parks on opening weekend, the 18th and 19th of April, 2015.

In the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area there are three National Parks; Bryce Canyon National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, and Zion’s National Park.  The National Park Service in conjunction with the state of Utah, and the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area invite you to visit one of these spectacular sites.

Kreig Rasmussen Photography http://www.kreigrasmussenphoto.com/bryce-canyon-2/
Kreig Rasmussen Photography http://www.kreigrasmussenphoto.com/bryce-canyon-2/

Your amazing first view of Bryce Canyon National Park offers the wonder of the numerous rows of the majestic pine trees that will obscure the vibrant colors and the splendor of  the canyon.  Once visitors reach the rim, a magnificent array of colors spring forth, giving a spectacular view particularly during daybreak and sunset.  Take a 37 mile round trip to the top 15 most visited viewpoints of Bryce Canyon.

Photo Courtesy of National Park Service
Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

Capitol Reef National Park, in the Boulder Loop District of the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area is all that one would expect from a National Park.  The magnificent scenery of the sandstone spires and monoliths, the twisting, winding canyons, and the enormous domes have been fascinating visitors since its designation as a national park in 1937 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Photo Courtesy of National Park Service
Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

Utah’s first designated National Park  was Zion National Park.  Here you will discover incredible views, renowned hiking trails such as Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Subway, will give countless experiences.  The park itself has a sense of reverence which many visitors recognize much like the Native Americans who regarded Zion as sacred.

Visit one of the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area Parks and remember to share your experience, favorite story and photos on your social media with #findyourpark #findyourstory.

 

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Cowboys, Outlaws, and the Movies

Who doesn’t like a good old western?  They are always filled with plenty of action, the good guys always win and the wrong has been righted!

Utah has had over 900 films, television series, and TV made movies filmed here. Within the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area is the best known landscape that was featured in the films by Director, John Ford and the famous “Duke” John Wayne.

John Wayne and John Ford's favorite place to film westerns.
John Wayne and John Ford’s favorite place to film westerns.
John Wayne "Fort Apache"
John Wayne “Fort Apache”
Rod Taylor "Billy The Kid"
Rod Taylor “Billy The Kid”
tom Mix "The Deadwood Coach"
tom Mix “The Deadwood Coach”
John Wayne starring in "Stagecoach" 1939
John Wayne starring in “Stagecoach” 1939

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Butch Cassidy, or Robert Leroy Parker was raised in Circleville, Utah.  His family cabin was once open to the public, but due to considerable damage to the cabin by past visitors taking a memento from the cabin, it was damaged.  The cabin is now closed to the public.

Matt Warner, or Willard Erastus Christiansen was  born in Ephraim, UT in the Little Denmark Area.  He was  an outlaw and Butch rode with Matt’s gang the Wild Bunch.  Butch and Matt rode to Telluride, Colorado as an introduction to bank robbery.

The unique landscape features a geological wonderland that has been the backdrop for feature films including; “Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid,” and “Jeremiah Johnson.” While traveling through the picturesque scenery, you might recognize a scene or two. Included in the heritage area is the birthplace of Utah outlaws, Butch Cassidy and Matt Warner. Matt was a lifelong friend and a gang member alongside of Butch.  Many movies were filmed in the scenic Under the Rim District of the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area.

jeremiah-johnson-1

 

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The Mormon Colonization

Mormon Colonization

In the later part of the 1800s the Mormon pioneers began their great relocation to the west. They trekked 1,400 miles from Illinois to the Great Salt Lake. This mass-Exodus brought about colonization in Utah, Nevada, the southwest corner of Wyoming, the southeast corner of Idaho, southeast Oregon, and a large portion of southern and eastern California.

  • Mormon Pioneers traveling westMany men, women, and children left the comfort of their homes, family, and friends to head west for a new home.  Their sacrifice was great, many paid the ultimate price, as they traveled the trails which would take them to areas of the unsettled west.  Many suffered from lack of food, clothing, supplies, and unimaginable hardships, and harsh weather conditions.

The women would gather together and help hold blankest to shelter over  women who happened to be giving birth while in a rain storm that pelting the new mother. The men and women a like shared the duties, the work, and caring for one another. The hardship was more than difficult, the weather was a huge factor, the lack of food and supplies were detrimental, the work was arduous, yet through it all they forged together for a new home, a new beginning, new territory that would be the carving out of the western United States of America.  They were men, women, and children that had the courage and fortitude to go where there was nothing but vast emptiness to start and settle a new land.

A grieving mother and father at the grave site of their children
A grieving mother and father at the grave site of their children

Many lost loved ones along the way.  Fathers and mothers buried their young children along the way.  Husbands, wives, mothers, fathers, children of all ages were lost on their trek but their remaining families were dedicated, driven to reach their new unknown community.  We owe a huge debt to these valiant people who tamed the desert, plowed the arid lands, and began to make the west what it has become today.

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Museums Located in Little Denmark

Fairview
Fairview Museum of History and Art

 

The Fairview Museum has something for everyone from personal handwritten heirloom family stories, records of founding forefathers genealogy, Native American artifacts, art work from local artists, sculptures by Arvard T. Fairbanks, and a true life scale of a massive mammoth.  This Columbian mammoth was almost fully intact when it was discovered as the Wasatch Plateau was being excavated at the Huntington Reservoir in 1988.

Fairview Art and Natural Museum

Stop in for all that the Fairview Museum has to offer  Don’t forget to visit the outdoor equipment that has been collected, that was once used by early settlers of the area.

Mount Pleasant

Bishop Seely and Relic Home Museum

Relic Home 1

Fountain Green
Fountain Green Daughters of the Utah Pioneers Museum and Old Tithing House

Manti
Manti Historic City Hall
Pattern House and Old Manti School/Daughters of the Utah Pioneers Museum

Spring City
Spring City Daughters of the Utah Pioneers Museum and Old Jail

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Local Artisans and Galleries in Little Denmark

There are numerous artisans and galleries in Little Denmark, each one unique. You can find artisans specializing in: country, western, landscapes, exhibits, quilting, weaving, woodworking, murals, paintings, pottery, carvings, silversmiths, gunsmiths, violin makers, saddlery, custom boots, and numerous other crafts that will delight all.

Ephraim

  • Accent Wear in Ephraim
    • Address: 15 East 300 South, Ephraim, UT 84627
    • Phone: 435) 283-4133
  • Carver Predator Calls
    • Address: 380 East 400 South, Ephraim, UT 84627
    • Phone: (435) 283-6525
    • Mobile/Other: (435) 340-0303
  • KJB Silversmithing
    • Address: 161 West Center, Ephraim, UT 84627
    • Phone: (435) 283-4016
  • Pressed For Time
    • Address: 238 South 100 East, Ephraim, UT 84627
    • Phone: (435) 283-4788
  • Steve Olsen Knives in Ephraim
    • Address: 420 East 400 South, Ephraim, UT 84627
    • Phone: (435) 283-6344
  • Traditional Building Skills Institute
    • Address: 150 E College Ave., Ephraim, UT 84627
    • Phone: (435) 283-7000
  • John Young Knives
    • Address: 483 East 400 South, Ephraim, UT 84627
    • Phone: (435) 283-4555

Centerfield

Fairview

  • Ancestors in Oil in Fairview
    • Address: 185 E 400 N, RR 1 Box 81, Fairview, UT 84629
    • Phone: (435) 427-9172
  • The Art Studio
    • Address: 239 S. 200 E., Fairview, UT 84629
    • Phone: (435) 262-0324
  • Conforme Belle
    • Address: 186 West 200 North, Fairview, UT 84629
    • Phone: (435) 469-1226
  • North Bend Trading Post
    • Address: 40 S State, P.O. Box 183, Fairview, UT 84629
    • Phone: (435) 427-9390

Fountain Green

  • R.A. Smith Custom Fly Rods
    • Address: 315 S 500 W, P.O. Box 367, Ft. Green, UT 84632
    • Phone: (435) 445-3497
  • Slickrock Leather Works
    • Address: 874 West 400 North, Ft. Green, UT 84632
    • Phone: (435) 851-6637
  • Stewart Artworks
    • Address: 590 West 200 North, Ft. Green, UT 84632
    • Phone: (435) 445-3531

Manti

Moroni

  • Aldridge Fine Art Studio in Moroni
    • Address: 110 South 300 West, Moroni, UT 84646
    • Phone: (435) 436-8815

Mt. Pleasant

  • Paul Hart Violins
    • Address: 36 W. Main Street, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647
    • Phone: (435) 462-0301
  • The Illusion Academy in Mt. Pleasant
    • Address: 180 North State, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647
    • Phone: 435) 462-4545
  • Peel Furniture Works
    • Address: 565 West Main Street, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647
    • Phone: (435) 462-2887
  • Pioneer Art in Mt. Pleasant
    • Address: 720 Walkara Ave, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647
    •  Phone: (559) 859-3861
  • Mighty Quinn Studios / Jason Quinn
    • Address: 118 E. Main Street, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647
    • Phone: (435) 462-4531

Spring City

  • Osral Allred Fine Art
    • Address: P.O. Box 152, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-2137
  • Antler’s Gift Shop
    • Address: 465 North Main, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-5642
  • The Art of Joan Durfey
    • Address: 94 West 100 North, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 262-0360
  • Black Canyon Taxidermy
    • Address: P.O. Box 361, 300 N 300 E, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-2661
  • C. M. Carving in Spring City
    • Address: 409 E 200 N, PO Box 190, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-9535
  • Douglas Fryer Fine Art 
    • Address: P.O. Box 394, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-2640
  • FiddleSticks Celtic Music
    • Address: 95 East 400 South, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (801) 221-1108
    • Mobile/Other: (801) 369-1243
  • Foxglove Cottage
    • Address: P.O. Box 220, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-9618
  • Fine Art of Susan Gallacher
    • Address: 12 North Main, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (801) 486-5019
  • Horseshoe Mountain Pottery
    • Address: 278 S Main, PO Box 186, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-2708
  • Jock Jones Handcrafted Windsor Chairs
    • Address: 125 South Main, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (801) 915-201
  • LGK Studios
    • Address: P.O. Box 104, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-9603
  • Shirley McKay Fine Art
    • Address: 190 North Main, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (801) 226-7097
    • Mobile/Other: (435) 462-0378
  • The Nest Gallery in Spring City Outlaw Glass Blowing
    • Address: P.O. Box 251, 150 N 600 E, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 262-0345
  • M’lisa Paulsen Fine Art
    • Address: 119 W 200 N, P.O. Box 36, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-3454
    • Mobile/Other: (801) 910-4191
  • Kathleen Peterson Fine Art
    • Address: 12755 North 8500 East, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-4319
  • Randall Lake Original Oil Paintings
    • Address: 63 West 300 South, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (801) 521-4609
  • Sanpete Spur & Silver
    • Address: 735 S Main, P.O. Box 403, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-7490
  • Scientific Glass Arts and Research
    • Address: 150 North 600 East, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (510) 381-3436
  • Kerry Soper Fine Art
    • Address: 190 North Main, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (801) 224-4129
  • Walker Custom Boots
    • Address: 1335 N Hwy 117, P.O. Box 561, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-3669
  • Amanda Willey Studios
    • Address: P.O. Box 274, Spring City, UT 84662
  • Michael Workman Studio
    • Address: P.O. Box 441, Spring City, UT 84662
    • Phone: (435) 462-3937
Read more..

Relic Home in Little Denmark

This beautiful house was once the home of William Seely, a prominent citizen, Bishop of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1859 to 1890, first Mayor of Mt. Pleasant, businessman, and leader in Sanpete County.  One of the first homes to be built outside of the Mt. Pleasant Fort, is now known as the Relic Home.

Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter
Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter

Built in 1869 this magnificent structure has a hint of Greek Revival architecture.  Here he resided with his wife Charlotte and their nine children.

Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter
Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter

History has placed President Brigham Young at the home, helping to place the floor in the entry way and sitting at the dining room table during a visit.

Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter
Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter

It also has been reported that the final treaty was signed Saturday, September 7, 1872 that ended the Black Hawk War between the Ute Indians and the Mormon settlers, at the entrance of the home.

Representing the United States Government was General Morrow from Camp Douglas, and representing the Ute Native Americans were Sanpitch’s Chief Black Hawk and Chief Indian Joe placing their respective mark on the treaty. Chief Black Hawk History has recorded that Chief Black Hawk had been wounded at the battle on Diamond Hill; he stood tall and dignified as he signed the treaty.

Around 1949 or 1950 the Mt. Pleasant Historical Association acquired the home for the expressed use of a museum.

Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter
Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter

Here the rooms are filled with large hanging portraits on the walls of early pioneers, historical sites, and homes.

There is also a wealth of treasures in family histories and genealogies of the early pioneers and their descendants.

Photo Courtesy Randee Ryan Zinter
Photo Courtesy Randee Ryan Zinter

There has also been a collection of early homesteads and their history.

Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter
Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter

That is not all that is held within its walls, there are many artifacts that were used and worn during these early days in history.

Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter
Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter

This is a must see museum on your next trip in Sanpete County, Mt. Pleasant.

Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter
Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter

Along the north side of the property is an authentic working blacksmith shop, owned by Pete Hafen.  One of the many outstanding features of the shop is the Prairie Diamond Rings.

Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter
Photo Courtesy of Randee Ryan Zinter

It has been told that while crossing the mountains and plains a young couple fell in love and wanted to marry. Of course there was no money to be had, neither a general store, merchant, or jeweler. Hearing of the young couples plight, a kind blacksmith fired up the forge, and  took a horse shoe nail to make a wedding ring. 3 prairie diamond rings It became known as the Prairie Diamond due to the diamond shaped trademark stamped on the head of the nail that  represented the Diamond Company.  If you are lucky enough on your visit, Pete, the blacksmith just might have a supply on hand or be in the process of making a supply of rings to give the ladies that visit his shop.

Prairie Diamond

As the settlers came west to settle their land,

Many of the youth walked hand in hand.

Some fell in love and wanted to marry,

But, money and jewelry they did not carry.

A kind young blacksmith knew just what to do.

He bent the nail from an old horseshoe.

The Prairie Diamond  was the name of the ring. 

So much happiness it surely did bring.

Many of  the family histories, photographs, and a wealth of information contained in the Relic Home was assembled by Co-Director Tudy Standlee.  She has assembled and identified the information on the families so that visitors will know in an instant what treasures the Relic Home has to offer.  She has also responsible for the compiled history on the historic homes and their ownership since the beginning of Mt. Pleasant, Utah.

Read more..

Little Denmark Events

Little Denmark District

Feb.
US Open Snowkite Masters

Photos Courtesy of Gus
Photos Courtesy of Gus

Little Denmark District

Snowkiting

ATV Paiute

• May
Spring City Heritage Days

Photo Courtesy of The Daily Herald
Photo Courtesy of The Daily Herald

Little Denmark District
Ephraim Scandinavian Festival Little Denmark District

BYU Folk Dancers
BYU Folk Dancers

• June
Mormon Miracle Pageant Little Denmark District

Mormon Miracle Pageant
Mormon Miracle Pageant

• July
Lamb Days Little Denmark District

Lamb Days in Ephraim, Utah
Lamb Days in Ephraim, Utah

Pioneer Days Little Denmark District
Hub City Days Little Denmark District
Fairview Lace Days Little Denmark District
Mountain Man Rendezvous Little Denmark District

• August
Manti Mountain ATV Tour Little Denmark District
Skyline 10K Run Little Denmark District
Sanpete County Fair Little Denmark District
Sanpete Classic Bike Race Little Denmark District

• September
Spring City Artists Studio Tour Little Denmark District

 

Spring City Artists To Be On Display Sept. 1

DATE 08/24/2007 7:15 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

This is part of an occasional series by the Sanpete Country Travel and Utah Heritage Highway 89 Alliance on the people and places along U.S. Highway 89.

Spring City Artists To Be On Display Sept. 1
Where in Utah can you visit the studios and galleries of more than 30 artisans in one day without traveling more than two miles? In Spring City, of course, which also happens to be the only city in Utah where the entire town is listed on the National Historical Register.On Sept. 1, people can combine their love of the arts with their penchant for historical buildings and homes by taking part in the second annual Spring City Artists Studio Tour.More than 30 artists will be opening their doors to the public, giving people a chance to see the works and works-in-progress of some of Spring City’s finest painters, potters and craft makers.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 and are available on Main Street the day of the event.

Painters taking part in the tour are: Osral Allred, Scott Allred, Lee Udall Bennion, Linda Budd, Joan Durfey Douglas Fryer, Lanny Britsch Gourd, Susan Gallacher, Randall Lake, Shirley McKay, George Olson, Ruth Olson, Cassandria Parsons, M’Lisa Paulsen, Kathleen Peterson, Ed Soper, Kerry Soper and Michael Workman.

Other artisans on the tour include potters Joe Bennion and John Parsons; knife maker Jerry Johnson; violin maker Holly Nicholes; glass artist Vince Campanile; marquetrist Les Kraut; boot maker Don Walker; photographers Russ Evans and Paul Allred; painted ceramics artisan Gina Garner; silversmiths Garth and Viv Jepperson; furniture maker Jonathan “Jock” Jones; and woodmakers Lothar Janke and Carl Timm.

In addition to the studio tours, there will also be an Art Festival Sept. 1 that includes a free children’s art work shops, pioneer games, and craft demonstrations, an art show, musical performances, food booths and more.

Part of the festival will include the Plein Air painting competition, which runs Aug. 29-31 and concludes with an art show and art sale Sept. 1. Invited artists along with nationally and locally known artists will compete against each other as they paint pastoral scenes around beautifully historic Spring City for awards and cash prizes.

Plein air is a French word that has a literal translation of “in the open air.” It is used to describe a style of paintings or drawings created in the moment, primarily from nature and infused with a feeling of the open air. During the competition, people visiting Spring City the three-day competition can watch the artists in action as they use their talents and brushes to re-create scenes on their canvas.

On Saturday, Sept. 1, the paintings will be judged and winners are announced. An open art show and sale will showcase the paintings completed that week and additional paintings by the artists.

There will also be self-guided tours of Spring City’s historical homes and buildings.

# # #
For more information Contact:Monte Bona
Sanpete County Travel and Heritage Council
(435) 462-2502

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