Cedar City History
The area around what is now Frontier Homestead State Park was settled in the late 19th century by pioneers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). These settlers were searching for a place to call home and started building a vibrant community. They named their new settlement Cedar City after nearby cedar trees, which provided much-needed lumber and other resources.
The LDS settlers built the first school in Cedar City and focused on cultivating crops, ranging from wheat to corn. In 1852, a local blacksmith shop opened and soon the community was home to several businesses, including stores, mills, and more. By the end of the 19th century, Cedar City had become a bustling town with many residents living in and around the area.
Native American History
Frontier Homestead State Park has a long history of occupation and use. The first people to inhabit the area were originally Ute Indians, who had lived in this region for centuries before settlers began coming westward. Around 700 A.D., the Fremont culture arrived in the region and inhabited it until around 1300 A.D., leaving behind numerous artifacts that can still be seen at the site today.
In more recent history, the Paiutes had a presence in this area from the late 1700s to the mid-1800s. During this time, they were known to hunt and gather in the area, as well as raise crops. Many of their artifacts and remains are still present throughout the park.
Mormon History
In the mid-1800s, the area around Frontier Homestead State Park was settled by Mormon pioneers. These settlers established a small farming and ranching community in the Cedar City area and used the surrounding land as grazing lands for their livestock. As part of this settlement, they also built several cabins that can still be seen at the park today.
The Mormon settlers brought with them their traditions and beliefs, which can still be seen in the park today. For example, visitors to the park can see many of the original fences that were built by these pioneers. These wooden fences are now a reminder of how life was lived during this time period and how it has changed over time.