|
The history of Sevier County dates back to the 1860’s when the first settlers arrived in the valley. After a brief time away from the area during the Blackhawk War, settlers returned to begin building the foundation for today’s Sevier County. Below are some of the historical sites and markers that may be of interest to today’s visitors.
JENSEN LIME KILN - Built in 1903 by Jens L. Jensen, Richfield well known lime burner cured lim for mortar to be used in rock and brick structures. The kiln measures 20 feet high and about 20 feet in diameter, with a wall thickness of 8 feet. Over his lifetime, Jensen went blind because of the heat of the kiln. The kiln is located at the north end of Richfield (under the I-70) overpass and remains the same today as when it was operational.
ROCK CHURCH AND BELL - Erected by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in 1864. Rocks for the building were hauled from a stone quarry two miles northeast of Salina. Settlers initially used the building as protection from the local Native Americans as well as church, school and community gatherings. The church is located at 87 South 100 East in Salina.
FORT ALMA - Fort Alma was built in 1866 on the land that is now 200 North and 100 West in Monroe. The fort was originally built as protection from Native Americans. The fort included 18 one room cabins constructed closely together to form three sides of the fort. The structure took nine months to build, during which time the settlers lived in local dugouts.
PEACE TREATY MONUMENT - Located on Highway 24 just south of Koosharem, the monument marks a treaty that brought an end to the Blackhawk War. On July 1, 1883, local Native Americans met with Albert Thurber and George Bean to sign the treaty.
CEDAR RIDGE MOUNTAIN BATTLE - On April 5, 1868, a group of 23 men on their way to the settlement in Monroe were attacked by Chief Blackhawk and a band of Native Americans. Two of the settlers were wounded and Chief Blackhawk received a wound that would eventually kill him. The battle took place at what is now the Sigurd Park near Cedar Ridge in Sigurd.
MISS MARY’S MUSEUM - Built in 1884, this old limestone church has been restored to its original condition. It is located at 204 South and 100 East in Salina and contains information and items unique to Sevier County.
FORT OMNI - Originally built in 1865 on an entire block in Richfield (Main to 100 West and Center to 100 North) Fort Omni boasted walls that were 12 feet high and 3 1/2 feet thick. Each man who owned a lot within the city was required to build one rod of the wall. Men stood guard at the fort at all times, using signals to warn of danger. The daughters of the Utah Pioneers erected a bell tower located at the corner of 100 South and 200 West in Richfield in memory of the fort.
|
