Mt. Carmel School and Church
Off UT 89, Mt. Carmel, UT Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1987.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
In the mid-19th century, Mormon settlers began to establish communities in the region. The southern portion of Kane County was settled by Mormon pioneers led by Brigham Young, who sought to establish an agricultural society based on their religious beliefs. The town of Kanab, which would become the county seat, was founded in 1864 by Mormon leader Levi Stewart.
The early settlers faced challenges such as droughts, harsh winters, and conflicts with Native American tribes. However, they persevered and developed a thriving agricultural industry, with ranching and farming becoming the mainstays of the local economy. The settlers also established schools, churches, and other essential community institutions.
Over time, Kane County has become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists due to its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The county is home to several national parks and monuments, including Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. These natural wonders continue to draw visitors from around the world, contributing significantly to the county's economy through tourism and outdoor recreation.
Kane County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Kane County, Utah.
- 1776 - Kane County is part of the Spanish Empire's northern boundary
- 1776-1848 - Kane County is part of Mexico after gaining independence from Spain
- 1848 - Kane County becomes part of the United States after the Mexican-American War
- 1864 - Kanab, the county seat, is settled by Mormon pioneers
- 1872 - Kane County is officially established by the Utah Territory legislature
- 1902-1904 - Construction of the historic Johnson Canyon and Gray Canyon Dams
- 1937 - Bryce Canyon National Park is established, including part of Kane County
- 1940s - Kane County becomes a popular filming location for Hollywood westerns
- 1996 - Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is established, covering a large portion of Kane County