Historical Markers in Piute County, Utah
Utah is home to the largest open-pit mine in the world. The Bingham Canyon Mine, located southwest of Salt Lake City, has been in operation since 1906 and produces copper, gold, and other minerals.
About Piute County
Piute County Timeline
Piute County, located in southern Utah, has a rich and varied history dating back thousands of years. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Paiute and Ute people, who hunted and gathered in the region's abundant natural resources. European explorers and fur trappers began to venture into the area in the early 1800s, establishing contact with the native tribes.
In 1849, Mormon pioneers arrived in the area and established a settlement called Fort Cove, which served as a military post and a trading center. Over time, more settlers migrated to the region, and the town of Junction was founded in 1858. The new settlement grew rapidly, attracting farmers, ranchers, and miners, who found wealth in the area's natural resources.
Piute County's mining industry played a significant role in its development, with silver, lead, and gold mining becoming major economic activities during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town of Bullion, which was established in 1873, became one of the largest silver producers in the state, contributing significantly to the economic growth of the county.
Despite its early success, the mining industry declined in the early 20th century, leading to a shift towards agriculture and tourism. The county's fertile lands supported the growth of farming communities, which cultivated crops such as alfalfa, wheat, and potatoes. Tourism also became an important industry in Piute County, attracting visitors with its stunning natural landscapes, including fish-filled lakes, picturesque mountains, and vast forests.
Today, Piute County continues to embrace its historical and natural heritage. The county's small population and rural charm make it an attractive destination for those seeking a peaceful and close-knit community. The region's historical sites, outdoor recreation opportunities, and annual festivals celebrate the rich history and cultural diversity of Piute County, making it a unique part of Utah's landscape.
In 1849, Mormon pioneers arrived in the area and established a settlement called Fort Cove, which served as a military post and a trading center. Over time, more settlers migrated to the region, and the town of Junction was founded in 1858. The new settlement grew rapidly, attracting farmers, ranchers, and miners, who found wealth in the area's natural resources.
Piute County's mining industry played a significant role in its development, with silver, lead, and gold mining becoming major economic activities during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town of Bullion, which was established in 1873, became one of the largest silver producers in the state, contributing significantly to the economic growth of the county.
Despite its early success, the mining industry declined in the early 20th century, leading to a shift towards agriculture and tourism. The county's fertile lands supported the growth of farming communities, which cultivated crops such as alfalfa, wheat, and potatoes. Tourism also became an important industry in Piute County, attracting visitors with its stunning natural landscapes, including fish-filled lakes, picturesque mountains, and vast forests.
Today, Piute County continues to embrace its historical and natural heritage. The county's small population and rural charm make it an attractive destination for those seeking a peaceful and close-knit community. The region's historical sites, outdoor recreation opportunities, and annual festivals celebrate the rich history and cultural diversity of Piute County, making it a unique part of Utah's landscape.
Piute County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Piute County, Utah.
- Piute County is established on January 16, 1865.
- Settlers begin to arrive in the area in the late 1860s.
- The town of Circleville is settled in 1864.
- The town of Junction is settled in 1879.
- Richfield becomes the county seat in 1888.
- Early 1900s - Agriculture and mining industries thrive in the county.
- 1930s - The Great Depression affects the county's economy.
- 1955 - The county is connected to the electrical grid.
- 1960s - The construction of Interstate 70 brings improved transportation.
- 1970 - The county's population reaches its peak at around 2,400.
- 1983 - The county celebrates its centennial.
- 1994 - The city of Junction is devastated by a flash flood.
- 2007 - The county celebrates its sesquicentennial.