Washington County

Washington County Facts:

County Website: Washington County
Area: 2,430 square miles
Population: 177,556 (2019)
County Seat: St. George
Origin of County Name: after President George Washington
Cities/Towns: Apple Valley, Enterprise, Hildale, Hurricane, Ivins, La Verkin, Leeds, New Harmony, Rockville, Santa Clara, Springdale, St. George, Toquerville, Virgin, Washington City
Economy: tourism, education, services, trade
Points of Interest: Zion National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, Gunlock State Park, Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, St. George Temple and Tabernacle, Pine Valley chapel, Wells Fargo & Co. Express Building, Washington Cotton Factory, Jacob Hamblin Home, Brigham Young home

About Washington County:

Washington County’s characteristic red canyons and plateaus, along with warm winters have helped define the county. The area was originally inhabited by the early Archaic and Anasazi Indians and later by the Southern Paiutes. In 1854 Jacob Hamblin was sent by Brigham Young to work with the Native Americans in the area and help establish a peaceful relationship between the Mormons and the Indians. In 1861 about 300 families, who were originally from America’s southern states, were sent by Brigham Young to the St. George area to grow products that work well in warm climates such as cotton, silk, and pecans. This is when the area became known as “ Utah’s Dixie.” In the late 1860’s silver was found and the mining town of Silver Reef was established. The mine produced over 25 million dollars worth of ore before it was closed in 1901. Dixie State University had its beginnings in the early 1910’s with only 42 students. The college has grown to over 7000 students in the year 2000. Zion National Park was first established 1909 by a Presidential Executive order and was given the name Mukuntuweap National Monument. The name was changed to its current name in 1919 by Congress.

Many tourists come to the area each year to see Zion National Park and similar surrounding areas, such as Snow Canyon State Park. Tuacahn Center for the Arts provides a unique theatrical experience in a huge outdoor theater framed by the red rock canyons. St. George has become home the World Senior Games held each October. Many residents of Washington County live here during the traditionally cold months of the year and return to their other homes during the hottest times of the year. A visit to St. George’s historic district gives the visitor a chance to see many restored homes and museums that help tell the history of the area

Resources:

More information for Washington County can be found at the following sites: