Southern Utah is a treasure trove of history, and the pioneering spirit that shaped the region is preserved in two remarkable historical sites: Brigham Young’s Winter Home and the Jacob Hamblin Home. Located near Hurricane, Utah, these beautifully restored homes provide a family-friendly opportunity to explore the lives of influential figures from the 19th century. With guided tours, fascinating stories, and a glimpse into pioneer life, these destinations are perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Brigham Young’s Winter Home: A Glimpse into Leadership and Legacy
The Role of Brigham Young in Southern Utah
As the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young played a pivotal role in settling Utah and expanding communities into the southern part of the territory. His winter home in St. George became an important hub for his leadership efforts, especially during the final years of his life.
Constructed in the 1870s, this home allowed Young to escape the harsh winters of Salt Lake City while overseeing the construction of the St. George Utah Temple, the first LDS temple in the West. The home served as both a personal retreat and an office where he directed church and civic affairs.
Architectural Highlights
Brigham Young’s Winter Home is a two-story adobe structure that combines practicality with the refined style of the era. Each room is furnished with authentic period artifacts, offering visitors an immersive experience of 19th-century life.
- The Kitchen and Dining Area: These rooms highlight the self-sufficiency of the time, featuring cast-iron stoves, handmade utensils, and a communal dining table where meals were prepared and shared.
- Brigham Young’s Office: This room showcases his role as a leader, with desks, ledgers, and documents that reflect the business and spiritual responsibilities he carried.
- The Bedroom: Young’s bedroom includes simple yet elegant furnishings, offering a glimpse into his private life.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the gardens surrounding the home. These well-manicured spaces feature native plants and flowers, providing a peaceful spot to relax or snap family photos.
A Family-Friendly Experience
The Winter Home is a hit with families, thanks to its engaging guided tours. Knowledgeable docents bring history to life, sharing stories of Brigham Young’s leadership, his challenges, and his vision for Southern Utah.
- Interactive Elements: Kids can learn about the basics of pioneer living, including cooking techniques, clothing, and home construction.
- Educational Value: Tours focus on storytelling, making complex historical events relatable and easy to understand for younger visitors.
Planning Your Visit
- Location: 67 West 200 North, St. George, UT 84770
- Hours: Open daily, with seasonal variations in hours.
- Admission: Free (donations are welcome).
- Nearby Attractions: Pair your visit with a trip to the St. George Tabernacle or the Pioneer Park for a full day of exploration.
Jacob Hamblin Home: A Pioneer’s Legacy of Peace
The Story of Jacob Hamblin
Known as the “Apostle to the Lamanites,” Jacob Hamblin was a pioneer, missionary, and peacemaker who played a crucial role in fostering friendly relations with Native American tribes. His home in Santa Clara, completed in 1863, served as a base for his missionary work and a gathering place for those seeking counsel.
Hamblin’s efforts in diplomacy helped establish trust and cooperation during a time of tension between settlers and indigenous peoples. This home stands as a testament to his commitment to bridging cultures and fostering harmony in the region.
The Home’s Architecture
The Jacob Hamblin Home is a classic example of pioneer construction, blending practicality and durability. Built from local sandstone, the home reflects the resourcefulness of the era.
- The Living Room: This central space hosted countless gatherings, with a large hearth that provided warmth and a focal point for family and visitors.
- The Bedrooms: Modest but functional, these rooms highlight the simplicity of pioneer life.
- The Kitchen: Filled with tools and artifacts from the 19th century, this room gives visitors a hands-on look at how pioneers prepared food and preserved resources.
Guided Tours
The guided tours at the Hamblin Home are especially engaging for families, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs of pioneer life.
- Interactive Storytelling: Guides share anecdotes about Hamblin’s interactions with Native Americans, his missionary travels, and the daily routines of his family.
- Hands-On Activities: Kids can examine historical artifacts, from tools to textiles, bringing history to life in a tangible way.
Planning Your Visit
- Location: 3325 Hamblin Drive, Santa Clara, UT 84765
- Hours: Open daily, with seasonal variations.
- Admission: Free (donations are encouraged).
- Nearby Attractions: The Santa Clara River Reserve offers hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities for an outdoor complement to your historical tour.
Tips for a Memorable Family Visit
Combine Education and Fun
- Ask Questions: Encourage kids to interact with guides, who are happy to share extra details or tailor the experience to young audiences.
- Make It a Game: Create a scavenger hunt for items in the homes, such as specific tools, furniture, or architectural details.
Explore the Area
- In St. George: After visiting Brigham Young’s Winter Home, head to the St. George Children’s Museum or grab lunch at a local café to round out your day.
- In Santa Clara: Extend your trip with a hike in the nearby Santa Clara River Reserve or a stop at a local ice cream shop.
Why Visit These Historical Homes?
Both Brigham Young’s Winter Home and the Jacob Hamblin Home offer unique windows into the pioneer history of Southern Utah. They highlight the resilience, ingenuity, and leadership of the early settlers who shaped the region. For families, these homes provide an opportunity to learn about history in an engaging and accessible way.
Whether you’re local to Hurricane or visiting the area, these historical sites are well worth exploring. They offer not only a glimpse into the past but also a chance to appreciate the enduring legacy of the pioneers who made Southern Utah what it is today.
Plan Your Trip Today
History comes alive at Brigham Young’s Winter Home and the Jacob Hamblin Home. Perfect for families, history buffs, and curious travelers, these homes promise an enriching and memorable experience. Pack your sense of curiosity and step back in time to discover the fascinating stories that shaped this remarkable region.
