West Jordan Historical Society

What whispers echo within these walls? We stand before the West Jordan Historical Society, a humble homestead transformed into a treasure trove of memories. The West Jordan Historical Society, established in 1998, dreamt of a museum dedicated to their town’s rich past. Their dream materialized in 1999 when they were granted a surplus house nestled within the city’s main park at 7800 South and 2053 West. This house, with its outbuildings, orchard, and antique machinery, forms the heart of the West Jordan Historical Society. Imagine stepping back in time as you explore the museum grounds. Within its walls, you’ll find an original Saltaire carousel horse, a relic of childhood joy. You’ll see the 1909 dedication stone from West Jordan’s second LDS meeting house, a testament to the community’s faith. The tools used by Archibald Gardner, the builder of 31 mills throughout the Salt Lake Valley, are also preserved here. The West Jordan Historical Society honors local heroes, too. Memorabilia from world middleweight champion boxer Gene Fullmer and his trainer, Marv Jensen, are showcased, celebrating West Jordan’s athletic triumphs. The clang of the blacksmith’s hammer rings once more in the working blacksmith shop, equipped with the original forge of Willard Richardson, an early West Jordan resident. His handmade tools and forged items are on display, a testament to his skill and dedication. In the 1867 granary, you’ll discover a unique collection of West Jordan and Utah dairy items, offering a glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage. The West Jordan Historical Society even resurrected West Jordan’s first soda fountain and lunch counter, the Cottage Inn. Restored to its 1937 glory, the Cottage Inn, once owned by Vivian Gardner Richardson and Genevieve Finlayson Hogan, offers a nostalgic trip to a simpler time. In 2007, the Steadman Barn, a century-old wooden structure, found a new home at the museum. Donated by the Larrie Oreno family, this barn, once a haven for sheep and cows, stands as a symbol of the community’s agricultural roots. The West Jordan Historical Society has been recognized for its commitment to preserving history. In 2018, they received the Modern Day Pioneer Award from the Sons of the Utah Pioneers. They have hosted over 200 Eagle Scout projects, nurturing a new generation of history enthusiasts. The West Jordan Historical Society is more than a museum; it is a living testament to the spirit of a community dedicated to honoring its past.