Historical Museum

Utah’s Rich Pioneer History Brings Visitors

“I can’t count how many times patrons of the museum have discovered they are related to pioneers who immigrated here to join the Latter-day Saints.” said Jeanette Chamberlain Rawlings, a descendant of local pioneers and one of our most Senior Volunteer Docents at the City’s two-story museum, and. “We see parents and grandparents bringing their children and grandchildren in all the time. What a great family activity. Picnic and play at the park then come on inside to visit the museum.

Once inside the museum, children love sitting in the old pioneer era desks and ringing the old school bell.  One father was so excited to show his grown kids a class photo from when he was a youngster attending the school.  He also found photos of a Christmas Pageant he was in.  It meant the world to him to recollect his time here growing up.  “Times such as this are why I enjoy volunteering so much.”  Jeanette added.   “You can build connections to your past, and form opinions as you learn about what happened, consider what’s important to you now and why.”  The visitor was encouraged to write his memories and story down to add to the archives and school year binder.

“Oh, and don’t forget your Saltwater Taffy from the candy jar on your way out!” Jeanette adds with a twinkle in her eye and a ready smile. Jeanette is rightfully proud of her local Southern Utah Pioneer heritage. Both her Grandfather John Taylor Woodbury Jr. and Great Grandfather John Taylor Woodbury Sr. served this and surrounding communities on many levels including civic office.