Jackson Park

Amidst the bustling cityscape of Salt Lake City, lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: Jackson Park. Jackson Park isn’t just a green space. It’s a living testament to the city’s dynamic growth and the vision of its early developers. Let’s journey back to 1909, when Salt Lake City was experiencing a population boom. The Kimball and Richards Land Merchants, recognizing the city’s rapid expansion, embarked on an ambitious project. They envisioned a series of suburban neighborhoods that would provide affordable housing while maintaining a connection to the city’s core. Jackson Square, as it was originally known, was one of their earliest endeavors. The developers marketed Jackson Square as an ideal investment opportunity. They touted its convenient location, a pleasant stroll from the city center, yet far enough to escape the hustle, dirt, and smoke. The lots were initially priced at $500 and up, but later dropped to $475. Kimball and Richards introduced innovative installment plans. For a mere $15 down and $15 a month, residents could own a piece of this burgeoning neighborhood. Jackson Park boasted amenities unheard of in many developments at the time. Water mains, proximity to city electricity, cement curbs and sidewalks, and fertile soil for gardening. The developers even added a touch of grandeur with corner stone monuments. These monuments, twelve to eighteen in number, marked each corner of the neighborhood. They featured embedded plaques bearing the name “Jackson Square” and corresponding street names, topped with decorative orbs. Sadly, time has taken its toll. Only one monument remains fully intact. You can find it on the southwest corner of Edith Avenue and 300 East, although the original orb is missing. A second monument base can still be seen on the southeast corner of Hampton Avenue and 200 East. These remnants serve as silent witnesses to Jackson Park’s rich history. So, the next time you visit Jackson Park, take a moment to appreciate. Appreciate not only its green spaces and recreational amenities, but also the legacy of Kimball and Richards. They transformed a once-empty plot of land into a thriving community, a testament to their vision and the enduring spirit of Salt Lake City.