History of Summit County, Utah
Taken from the Utah History Encyclopedia (Links Added)
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The first settlers in Summit County arrived at Parley's Park in 1850. Wanship was settled in 1854, followed by Coalville, Hoytsville, and Henefer in 1859. When coal was discovered near Coalville, the Mormons established a mission there. During the 1860s, wagons hauled tons of coal from Coalville to the Salt Lake Valley settlements. In 1873 the Utah Eastern Railroad built a line from Echo Junction to Coalville to haul coal. This line eventually became part of the Union Pacific Railroad.

The discovery of silver, lead, and zinc in the Wasatch Mountains in the 1870s soon overshadowed the settlement and economic activities of the rest of the county. Park City, a mining town founded in 1872, continued to expand into the twentieth century. Many individuals made fortunes from the Park City mines. Mansions on South Temple in Salt Lake City reflect some of this wealth. Mining continued until the 1950s, at which time it no longer was profitable. For several decades Park City was on the verge of becoming a ghost town, but the area's rugged terrain and deep snow led to its rebirth as a winter sports center. Skiing currently is a major economic activity in western Summit County, while the rest of the county is still noted for its farming and ranching. Other recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and tourism add to the county's diversified economy.

Craig Fuller

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