As improbable as it seems, Leo Tolstoy’s 1869 novel War and Peace has been turned into a Broadway musical. The production, Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812, originally opened on Broadway in 2016 and starred Josh Groban. The production has finally made its way to Utah and will open at the Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theater on May 10, 2024.
Nominated for 12 Tony Awards, this hit Broadway Show will have you swooning through imperialist Russia on a vodka-soaked wild ride. This story encompasses love and lust, and everything that comes with it. From rogues to redemption, dancing to dueling Tolstoy’s epic tome has it all and is strangely charming converted to musical form.
Natasha is visiting Moscow while she waits for her beloved fiance, Andrey. While feeling lonely and uneasy about the engagement, she is seduced by Anatole Kuragin. Anatole, who is married, ruins Natasha’s position in the community with the scandal and her engagement. The misanthropic Pierre Bezukhov may be the only compassionate person to help redeem her standing. But can he get past his own lonely, internal struggles?
Leo Tolstoy was an esteemed Russian writer. Possibly, one of the most influential authors of his time. He received nominations for the Nobel Prize in Literature consistently from 1902 to 1906, and for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901, 1902, and 1909. War and Peace is one of his most notable works; often credited as a pinnacle of realist fiction, some critics even called it “the greatest of all novels.” (You may disagree if you had to slog through it during college.) This production is a musical. This show is full of musical numbers. On stage, there will be a cast of 20 amazing actors; So, come ready to see some triple threats (excellent singing, dancing, and acting). The score of Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 merges Russian Folk, Classical, Indie Rock, and EDM influences. Dave Malloy, the score’s writer and orchestrator, has written 14 musicals. His long list of awards speaks for itself, but this particular show has to be one of his biggest achievements. The New York Times called it “the most innovative and best new musical to open on Broadway since Hamilton!” Looking forward to seeing it for myself.
What: Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812
When: May 10 through 25, 2024; Monday through Saturday
Where: Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre, 300 S. 1400 East, SLC
Tickets: $55-79 ($5 extra, if purchased at the door) and are available at pioneertheatre.org or by calling PTC’s Box Office at (801)581-6961.
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Experience the Beauty of Red Mountain Resort: Your Ideal Summer Destination
Nestled in the heart of Southern Utah, Red Mountain Resort has long been a sanctuary for health-conscious travelers seeking solace amidst the stunning red rock landscapes. However, an exciting new era dawns upon this beloved resort as it transitions from an exclusive adults-only retreat to a welcoming haven for families and leisure seekers. Following a recent acquisition by prominent development firm, Reef Capital Partners, Red Mountain Resort is on a transformative path to serve a broader audience seeking relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature’s embrace.
Ashley Dove, the Director of Marketing & Communications at Red Mountain Resort, is excited about the resort’s latest phase. Looking forward to warmly welcoming visitors from afar as well as members of the local community, Dove emphasizes that this new chapter will bring about a refreshed perspective and an inclusive approach.
“Our goal is to become a beloved vacation destination and a local favorite for everyone who visits us,” notes Dove.
When it comes to amenities, Red Mountain Resort exceeds expectations, offering personalized and unique experiences ranging from rejuvenating spa treatments to exciting outdoor activities.
Canyon Breeze, the resort’s premier dining option, recently solidified its reputation as a culinary destination with the addition of Executive Chef Doug Gerpheide. Hailing from the award-winning restaurant, Wood + Ash + Rye, Chef Gerpheide brings a wealth of experience and creativity to Canyon Breeze. Look for innovative dishes that showcase locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors that reflect Chef Gerpheide’s passion for memorable dining experiences.
The renowned Sagestone Spa & Salon provides a range of exclusive spa services inspired by ancient health and beauty rituals, featuring clean ingredients unique to Red Mountain. Guests can also join wellness classes such as yoga or meditation to enhance their inner peace.
Thrill-seekers can test their courage with rock climbing, canyoneering, or kayaking expeditions led by experienced guides. The resort’s outdoor recreation team and friendly concierge service ensure seamless adventures, including guided activities and hassle-free transportation to and from Zion National Park.
Embrace the tranquility and abundance that Red Mountain Resort offers this summer, making it your haven away from the ordinary. Whether you seek culinary delights, wellness retreats, or thrilling adventures, Red Mountain beckons you to redefine your summer escape.
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Summer is on its way and there’s no better way to cure cabin fever than planning your calendar of summer travel adventures. We asked our partners in the hospitality business to help us curate a guide to unique and easy ways to get away.
Discover Paradise: Why Black Desert Resort is the Season’s Must-Visit Vacation Spot
As the anticipation builds for Utah’s first PGA Tour event in over six decades, St. George, Utah, is poised to become the epicenter of a historic sports moment this fall. Beyond marking a pivotal milestone for professional sports in the state, the unveiling of Black Desert Resort promises to redefine Utah’s tourism and hospitality landscape.
The highly anticipated phased unveiling of Golf Village, slated for mid-summer 2024, heightens the excitement surrounding Black Desert Resort. Positioned adjacent to a 19-hole Lava Field Course, the meticulously designed condos and residences are primed to thrill and accommodate golf enthusiasts. With close access to a 36-hole putting course, Trackman virtual golf driving range, premium appliances, and unique communal spaces for gathering beneath the vast expanse of Greater Zion skies, Golf Village guarantees to offer a haven for relaxation, recreation and socializing amidst the breathtaking splendor of Greater Zion.
Black Desert Resort, set to fully open its doors following the historic PGA championship event in October, promises unparalleled accommodations and amenities. “With a commitment to excellence, every aspect of the resort has been meticulously crafted to cater to the diverse needs of our guests. Luxurious accommodations, a world class spa, adventure and fine dining experiences await,” states Ashley Dove, Director of Marketing and Communications.
In the realm of dining, Black Desert Resort is poised to revolutionize culinary experiences in Utah. From the premier steakhouse Basalt to the laid-back, lively ambiance of the 20th Hole Club Lounge, the resort offers a diverse range of cuisines and beverage outlets to satisfy every palate.
Described by Dove as the epitome of luxury with a down-to-earth approach, Black Desert Resort embraces an inclusive ethos. “Our tagline is luxury without pretense, and that inclusive approach is at the heart of everything we do,” she says. Whether seeking an annual family vacation or a championship golf experience, Black Desert aspires to be the preferred choice year after year.
Catering to every guest, Black Desert Resort presents unparalleled luxury and a plethora of adventure opportunities. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker exploring rugged terrain on an exhilarating ATV tour or a relaxation enthusiast finding solace in serene spa facilities, the resort has something for everyone. With competitive opening rates, seize the moment to book your reservation and immerse yourself in the magic of Black Desert Resort. Reservations open soon, so act fast to secure your stay before it’s too late!
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Summer is on its way and there’s no better way to cure cabin fever than planning your calendar of summer travel adventures. We asked our partners in the hospitality business to help us curate a guide to unique and easy ways to get away.
Snowpine Lodge Offers a Rejuvenating Alpine Escape this Summer
A trip to Alta in the summer is well worth it, especially if the destination is a stay at the luxurious Snowpine Lodge.
“As the mountain snow begins to melt, Alta transforms into a stunning summer paradise, and Snowpine Lodge offers an oasis of comfort and luxury situated amid the breathtaking beauty of nature,” says Cassandra Lentz, Marketing Manager at Snowpine Lodge.
Guests who experience Snowpine Lodge immediately feel a sense of tranquility. Just take a short drive from the concrete jungle of Salt Lake City—and you are transported into a natural wonderland.
“Your Snowpine experience begins the moment you enter Little Cottonwood Canyon,” says Audrey Nichols, the Director of Spa and Fitness at Stillwell Spa, Snowpine’s premier wellness offering. “Roll down your windows, breathe in the fresh mountain air, take in the incredible scenery, and prepare for a rejuvenating escape amidst Utah’s majestic mountains.”
Imagine a day full of soul-enriching and core memory-creating experiences such as a drive through the canyon, followed by an excursion through the spectacular wildflower meadows. After that, you might hop on their complimentary guest shuttle to Snowbird Resort for a tram ride or a run on the Alpine Slide with their activity day pass.
After a day of exploration, you return to the lodge where you can play a variety of games with the whole family in The Nest and Little Nest. Or, perhaps you’d prefer to unwind with a signature treatment at Stillwell Spa or simply relax in the outdoor heated pool and outdoor hot tubs, all with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
During your visit, enjoy a delicious dinner at Swen’s Restaurant, where the carefully curated menu features delicious dishes for every palate. Then, why not grab a nightcap while taking in The Gulch Pub’s live music?
No matter how you plan to spend your stay, anything you desire is possible at Snowpine Lodge.
“Whether you’re visiting us for a staycation, vacation, or a daycation, we provide a unique destination for guests to experience the majesty of Alta no matter the season,” says Nichols.
After experiencing Alta in the summer, you may want to plan a winter getaway, because, after all, Snowpine Lodge sits at the base of Alta Ski Area, a world-renowned ski resort. The experiences are truly endless at Snowpine Lodge—all year round.
Visit Snowpine Lodge in Alta this season and save up to 21% when you use code: SLMAG
10420 Little Cottonwood Rd., Alta 801-742-2000 • snowpine.com
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Summer is on its way and there’s no better way to cure cabin fever than planning your calendar of summer travel adventures. We asked our partners in the hospitality business to help us curate a guide to unique and easy ways to get away.
St. Regis Deer Valley Provides an Elevated Utah Experience
At the St. Regis Deer Valley, you get the best that Utah has to offer. “It’s very elevated, literally, as well as an experience,” says Hayes Broadhead, the resort’s Marketing Coordinator.
The 5-star hotel has long held a reputation as one the premier winter destinations in the United States—if not the entire world—but according to Hayes, it isn’t just during the snowy season that the St. Regis Deer Valley shines.
No matter the time of year, there’s always reason to make a trip to Park City a memorable one. “It’s an ideal destination for a vacation or even a staycation because of our diversity here at the resort,” Hayes says.
If adventure is your thing, the resort can get you out on a mountain bike or a hike, or if the weather holds, even on the slopes for some late-season skiing. But that’s not what Hayes means when he talks about a diversity of activities.
You may just want to unwind and relax and for that, the St. Regis Deer Valley is also more than accommodating.
“It can be very peaceful here, there is beauty and nature everywhere you look with plenty of inviting places to immerse yourself in the mountains’ serenity,” says Hayes. “We have great dining, so you can enjoy unparalleled cuisine, unwind, and transcend the ordinary in every way.
St. Regis Deer Valley’s premier dining option, RIME, offers pristinely prepared seafood, sustainably sourced primed cuts and an award-winning drink menu pulled from a 10,000-bottle wine cellar.
But when you’re not enjoying the beautiful surrounding nature or a fantastic dinner from a locally inspired menu at St. Regis Deer Valley, you might consider a trip to the tranquil oasis. The resort features a spa best described as a “singular sanctuary.” Enjoy revitalizing spa treatments and mountain vistas that focus on balancing the body’s energetic pathways and naturally restoring wellbeing and beauty.
So you might already know everything elegant that Utah has to offer, but during a staycation at the St. Regis Deer Valley, you’ll have the most elevated experience available. Even with a global reputation, Utah natives regularly make it a favorite destination.
“We get all kinds of guests, from Salt Lakers to those who reside in Southern Utah and want to swap the red rocks for the mountains for a weekend or so,” Hayes says. “It’s a perfect place for guests to transport to a new atmosphere, and develop meaningful connections to our diverse state.”
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“I wanted to createa night that was more for adults because a lot of DJ-related nights tend to be a bunch of young kids coming out to dance to the top 40s,” says James Ramirez, an experienced DJ, record-collector and a cofounder of Caviar Club. “I wanted to do something different that celebrated the finer things in life, and for me, vinyl is one of them.”
Setting out to offer a sophisticated space for music lovers and foodies alike, Ramirez has been collaborating with Salt Lake’s gastronomic powerhouses to host a series of traveling, refined pop-ups for one night only. Though Caviar Club has become known for its high-concept food and vinyl parties, the group began as a way for local record-lovers to connect. In 2013, Ramirez and nine other DJs, producers and vinyl collectors would gather at Bar X and host regular listening parties. The actual caviar came much later.
“We named our group Caviar Club as a sort of tongue-in-cheek nod to the inherent pretentiousness of the vinyl community,” Ramirez laughs. Don’t get it wrong—Caviar Club is far from an uppity crew looking down their noses at mere Spotify listeners. But their dedication to decades-long crate-digging for rare and unique vinyl is something to be celebrated, and how can you not want to show off a collection that is 5,000 records strong? “We’ve all been collecting vinyl for the better parts of our lives, most of us have thousands of pieces in our collection,” Ramirez says.
As the meet-ups gained momentum, the worldly Caviar Club listeners decided to use their genre-spanning collections for the greater good and educate Salt Lakers on the finer sounds of life. Ramirez and the club members joined minds with the crew at Alibi Bar & Place to curate regular DJ nights, spinning everything from Soul to Boogaloo to Afrobeats to classic Hip Hop. The events became popular among those who wished to expand their euphonic palette, or just throw back a crushable cocktail and enjoy music that didn’t originate from a TikTok trend.
Sensing Salt Lake’s love for nostalgic and authentic music experiences, Ramirez decided to take the concept one step further in 2023 and put together a full conceptual listening party for one night only. “I just wanted to pair all the things I love—really good wine, good food and really good music played on vinyl,” he says.
With guidance from wine and spirits expert Francis Fecteau of Libation, Caviar Club hosted its first official food and vinyl pop-up with Woodbine’s Drift Lounge in September. “Pop-ups have become so popular in this city, and we wanted to collaborate with some of Salt Lake’s most prominent chefs and industry folks to bring this musical soundscape experience to life,” Ramirez says.
Caviar Club partnered with The Pearl in the following months to host an evening of Yacht Rock, caviar and oysters from Chef Tommy Nguyen, and Central 9th/Water Witch where they spun classic Hip Hop. “We try and get creative and collaborate with food and drink experts,” says Ramirez, who curates each setlist to complement the night’s food and beverage focus. “So for instance our popup at Citizen back in January with Chef Manny Acero of Noche featured Salsa tunes and Columbia records to emphasize his flair for Latin cuisine.”
February’s Caviar Club shindig was hosted with Post Office Place, which provided cocktail specials alongside Japanese bites from Takashi Chef Bryce Okubo. Dubbed ‘Luxury Exotica,’ Ramirez played a mix of Japanese vinyl and rare Eastern sounds to compliment the evening’s culinary focus.
Each popup invites imbibers to interact with different cultures through the senses and is an opportunity for both Caviar Club DJs and local Chefs to play with specific cuisines and music genres. And, mostly, it’s an appeal for adults to venture into the city for a refined evening of live music and elevated libations. “This kind of pop-up is special,” Ramirez notes. “It’s an evening geared toward adults and people who appreciate the finer things. It’s a void I’m trying to fill in this city.”
Caviar Club has put together dozens of unique listening parties since they started in September, and there’s plenty of fun stuff still in the works. Ramirez is planning collaborations with Chef Viet Phong from Pretty Bird, Ruin, Green Room, along with joining forces with other vinyl collectives like Social Disco. And more recently, the crew have opened their own consignment record shop and jazz lounge called Fountain Records where they’ll be hosting their salon with their pinkies up.
For the most recent updates on upcoming pop-ups, follow Caviar Club at @cvrclb and visit their new shop, Fountain Records, at 202 E. 500 South, SLC.
On Wednesday, the Utah Pride Center, including its new executive director, revealed what some of this year’s Utah Pride Week programming and festivities would entail. The theme for the 2024 Utah Pride Festival is “CommUNITY – Building Unity Within The Community.” Organizers say this will involve bringing all Pride organizations in the state to the festival grounds under “one rainbow.” The Utah Pride Festival and Parade is scheduled for June 1-2, 2024.
“Our goal is to bring everyone to the table to share their ideas, to better understand their needs, and most importantly, to learn how the Utah Pride Center can support their local efforts to spread Pride through all of Utah,” said Chad Call, Executive Director of the Utah Pride Center.
The Utah Pride Center faced scrutiny and an organizational shake-up follow the 2023 Pride celebrations. Local artists and small business owners, many members of the LGBTQ+ community, called attention to the inaccessibility of the pricing of the vendor booths at the 2023 festival, as others criticized the lack of inclusivity of programming. The Utah Pride Center also spent more money on the 2023 Pride than any other previous pride celebration, reportedly running the non-profit into debt. In a statement released September 2023, the center explained that the “Utah Pride Center (UPC) has been mis-aligned with our community-centric mission and lacking in focus and accountability,” which led to the apparent mismanagement of programming and the 2023 Pride Festival “not reflecting what our greater LGBTQIA+ community wanted or expected.”
Following the debacle, the Utah Pride Center laid off staff, including “the Co-CEO responsible for 2023 Pride.” The shake-ups continued, however, as Call took the job of interim director after Executive Director Ryan Newcomb stepped down in March due to health concerns. Newcomb had taken that position just six months prior. As Utah Pride paused programming and pledged to work to regain trust, other pride organizations formed.
SLC Pride emerged in late 2023, posting on Instagram that they were “excited to be planning the Pride Festival our community has been asking for.” At the time, the post mentioned the organization was not affiliated with Utah Pride or the Utah Pride Center. According to their website, that SLC Pride Festival event is scheduled for June 27-30, 2024 at The Gateway.
In their announcement Wednesday, May 1, 2024, the Utah Pride Center stated, “As an organization with a mission to Unite, Empower and Celebrate our LGBGTQ+ Community, one of the best ways we can do that is by uniting our local pride celebrations.” As far as who that will involve and what that will look like, the statement continues, “Inside the Utah Pride Festival located in Washington Square in downtown Salt Lake City, local Pride organizations from around the state are invited to have a table in Rainbow Alley, a centralized location to make introductions, collaborate, network, recruit and share their stories with the tens of thousands of festival attendees.” said Call, “Our goal is to bring everyone to the table to share their ideas, to better understand their needs, and most importantly, to learn how the Utah Pride Center can support their local efforts to spread Pride through all of Utah.”
Utah Pride Festival 2024
As far as this year’s festival is concerned, the 2024 Pride Festival kicks off on Saturday, June 1 with a rally at 10:00 a.m. on the steps of the Utah State Capitol, co-hosted with Equality Utah. The rally is followed by a march down State Street toward Washington Square where the Pride Festival will take place. Festival gates open at 11 a.m. on Saturday and include two full days of vendor booths, food and beverage vendors and activities for the whole family.
This year, the festival entertainment is said to be local Utah talent, with two stages on either side of the festival, showcasing singers, dancers and queer artists from all over the state. A third stage will house the return of Utah Pride Karaoke. The Utah Pride Center will release the full list of performers at a later date.
When: Saturday, June 1, 11 a.m – 10 p.m.; Sunday, June 2, 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. Where: Washington Square Park, 450 S. 300 East, SLC
Utah Pride Parade 2024
The annual Pride Parade is on Sunday, June 2, starting at 100 South and West Temple and ends at 700 South and 200 East. This free event begins at 10AM, and festival gates open afterwards at 12PM Noon. It is the same route as Pride 2023. Organizers expect 16,000 participants and over 100,000 spectators.
When: Sunday, June 2, 10 a.m. Where: Downtown Salt Lake City
2024 Utah Pride Parade route map.
Utah Pride Interfaith Worship Service
This year’s theme is “Queering Faith.” The Pride Interfaith Worship Service has kicked off the Pride Festival for more than two decades. It is a time of celebration, reflection, prayer, memorial, music and love as the many faith traditions that are expressly welcoming to and fully inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community come together to “queer faith” in the hope that our arms might open wider still.
When: Thursday, May 30, 7 p.m. Where: Congregation Kol Ami, 2425 Heritage Way, SLC
Utah Pride Festival Admission
Tickets for the Pride Festival are on sale. Get an early bird discount now through May 15 when you purchase tickets online. To buy tickets, visit: utahpride.org/tix
Early Bird Pricing (now through May 15): One Day Child – $5; One Day Adult -$15 Regular Pricing (May 16 – June 2): One Day Child – $5; One Day Adult – $20
ASL interpreters will be at every event with accessible seating and sections where visitors can see the interpreters. ADA ramps will also be installed at all entrances and multiple locations inside festival grounds to ensure accessibility. UPC has also partnered with the Salt Lake City Public Library to provide a calming space for folx who may need it.
April showers not only bring May flowers but also a new exhibit at Utah’s Hogle Zoo! The 22 million dollar expansion, suitably named Wild Utah, features some of our state’s most elusive wildlife. President and CEO at Hogle Zoo, Doug Lund said, “The Aline W. Skaggs Wild Utah exhibit is unlike any other zoo experience. From cougars, desert bighorn sheep, burros, western toads and yellow-bellied marmots, you’ll see Utah’s vast and varied wildlife up close.”
This new expansion may be the biggest news to come out of Hogle Zoo since the zoo announced last May that its longtime elephant residents, Christie and Zuri, would head to new homes in hopes of finding a better quality of life.
The new development spans three acres located on the east side of Utah’s Hogle Zoo. Lund said, “The exhibit opens a new area to enjoy the zoo and new spaces to create champions for wildlife.” The expansion has been carefully designed to include many unique features, including, “animal experiences, hands-on conservation opportunities, and behind-the-scenes access to animal care. [At the exhibit] guests can engage with Utah wildlife like never before,” he said.
Artist renderings of Aline W. Skaggs Wild Utah habitat at Utah’s Hogle Zoo (courtesy Utah’s Hogle Zoo)
One of the most engaging of these experiences is the Makers Space. This interactive area allows guests to participate in hands-on projects. These include building bird houses, assembling hummingbird feeders, creating seed pods and planting pollinators, all of which can be taken home afterwards by the participants.
Another interesting section of the exhibit is the Nature Play Area & Interpretive Campsite. Here guests learn how to enjoy Utah’s wildlife and outdoor space responsibly. This education initiative is designed to promote a refreshed attitude towards nature and motivate environmentally friendly behavioral changes. What’s more, the expansion is helping to reduce Salt Lake City’s environmental pollution by using clean, renewable power.
The expansion also includes the Overlook Terrace, which provides a panoramic view of the Wild Utah area, particularly of the bighorn sheep and cougar exhibits.
For the focal point of the expansion, the zoo erected The Norma W. Matheson Education Animal Center. Said Lund, “This is where the ambassador animals will reside. These ambassador animals are part of our informal science education enhancement (iSEE) outreach program that teaches second-grade classrooms across the state about Utah habitats, sparking their curiosity and sense of wonder.” Additionally, the center features an interactive kitchen where visitors can learn about the diverse diets that different zoo animals digest and see demonstrations on how zoo meals are prepared.
As added enjoyment (and education), the animal center is also home for the Boreal Toad conservation project—an initiative that houses boreal toads and their eggs. (Due to habitat changes and a fungal disease referred to as “chytrid,” Utah’s boreal toads are in rapid decline and this project aims to reintroduce the endangered species to an environment similar to their original habitat.)
Not only can visitors be fascinated by the array of wildlife within the exhibit, but the beauty of the display, further enhanced by the use of the state’s local flora and topography. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the mural of monarch butterflies on the backside of Markers Space and a second mural of Utah’s pollinators—bees, flowers, etc.—on the east side of The Norma W. Matheson Education Animal Center.
Although the opening date for the exhibit has not yet been announced, it is expected to be sometime in mid May.
Of course, when visiting Utah’s Hogle Zoo, visitors should not miss out on the other exhibits that are found within the vast menagerie. These include African Savanna, Great Apes, Asian Highland, Rocky Shores, Small Animals, Primate Forest and Rhino Exhibit.
The zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM. Visitors can purchase tickets at the gate, but there is a savings of $2.00 if purchased online at their website. Locals can also choose to become annual members which not only provides access to exclusive events and benefits but helps to support the care and wellbeing of over 600 species of animals.
This day, 124 years ago, was a day of horror in Scofield, Utah. On this day, 200 men and boys perished in a dark hole under the mountain. At the time, it was the worst mining disaster in The United States and would become a rallying cry for American Workers.
This is the story of May 1 and the sorrow that followed.
It was difficult to get around the room because the coffin was so big. But they did it. They shuffled and jostled and positioned themselves around the dead man as the photographer told them to hold still. Any movement would blur the image. So they were arrayed around the box, absolutely motionless—as still as the man in the coffin. Nearly every home in Scofield, Utah, would have a 6-foot-long box in the parlor in early May 1900. Families who were a little better off would pay to have a photographer document the scene. Within a short time, the coffin would be in the ground, the families would continue to mourn, and just about everyone in this eastern Utah town wondered how the Pleasant Valley Coal Co.’s mine had exploded on such a perfect May morning, wiping 200 men and boys out of existence.
Mrs. Seth Jones and family and casket at a funeral ceremony following the disaster. Photo by George Edward Anderson (1860-1928), courtesy L. Tom Perry Special Collections, Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University
124 Years Ago at 10:30 a.m.
On May 1, 1900, Scofield became a town with too many bodies, and nowhere to put them. The Scofield mine disaster ranks as the fifth most deadly mining accident in the United States, and Utah’s worst calamity. Some estimates place the death toll as high as 246. To a certain degree, miners and their families accepted the risks. Today, 124 years later, not much has changed. Miners still gamble every time they go underground. The 2006 Sago Mine disaster, which claimed 12 lives, was a vivid reminder of those dangers.
The Pleasant Valley Coal Co.’s mine was in nearby Winter Quarters at the mouth of the canyon. Sagebrush and scree littered the hillsides. Mineshafts yawned out of the hills, the more productive mines reaching high-quality coal seams. Shafts No. 1 and No. 4 were good ones; at one point the two would be producing more than 80% of Utah’s coal.
The folks at Scofield and Winter Quarters had not had an easy winter. Smallpox and poverty were rampant. The smallpox ran its course and soon abated, but the poverty did not, particularly for the immigrants—the Finns, the Italians, the Dutch. Still, Scofield’s 2,500 people were just beginning to come out from under such dark clouds, preparing to celebrate May Day.
Things looked good. The Pleasant Valley Coal Co. was due to supply 2,000 tons of coal a day to the U.S. Navy. Men trudged to work that morning, many hefting large bags of gunpowder for blasting. There were shouts and teasing, the Finns clustering together, a mishmash of languages and accents bouncing off the canyon walls. They disappeared into the ground, working their way through the warrens and low rooms.
At 10:25 a.m.
The men in No. 1 felt a change in the air. A kind of concussion, a pressure on the chest. Word spread that something was terribly wrong in No. 4. Then the words “Get out” echoed through the caverns. Tools dropped and boots began moving toward the mouth of shaft No. 1, while pushing at their backs was a cloud of dust, debris, and the deadliest thing a mine can throw at you: afterdamp.
Miners fear several things: an accident resulting in injury, followed by time off work and no pay; or losing the job because the company folds or the coal plays out. And of course black lung, a disease from inhaling coal dust. But that’s a slow, protracted death, free of shock and violence. Miners don’t dwell on those. After all, these mines in Scofield had a reputation for being among the safest.
But afterdamp, that’s something else.
Following a mine explosion, oxygen is forced out of the shaft. What’s left behind is a deadly cocktail of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and nitrogen, utterly irrespirable. Those who survive a fire or explosion are usually wiped out by afterdamp in short order. Rescuers know it when they see it: corpses strewn across the mine floor, untouched by flame or debris, but with handkerchiefs, hats, and coats pressed to their mouths in a futile attempt to keep the afterdamp out of their lungs. One rescuer described the scene in the Winter Quarters mine: “We found bodies of the men in every conceivable shape, but generally they were lying on their stomachs with their arms about their faces. The men died almost instantly when struck by the damp and did not suffer. They just became unconscious and were asphyxiated. Their faces were all calm and peaceful as though they had just fallen asleep.”
One-hundred and three miners made it out of Winter Quarters No. 1. Some 200 did not make it out of the mine at all—that is, until they were hauled out with sheets covering their faces. Some of the dead included young boys who had been working with their fathers.
At No. 4, those who were near the portal were lucky, despite the shattered timbers and twisted mine cars blown out of the hole. They could get to fresh air quickly.
Walter Clark rushed into the mine to find his brother and father. But the afterdamp still hung heavy in the air. He lost consciousness and died.
The Library of Congress maintains archive of images from the horrific mining disaster. Photo courtesy Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division
After the air in No. 4 began to clear, rescuers plunged into the mine, scrambling over the tangles of wood, metal, and horses split open by the explosion. They would only find four survivors, one of whom was so badly burned and wailing in pain he begged to be killed. He died the following day. Another miner died on the way to a nearby boarding house, which was to serve as a makeshift hospital. Of the other two survivors, one was put on a train to St. Mark’s Hospital in Salt Lake City and would recover. The fourth, Jacob Anderson, emerged untouched.
Some evidence, based on the mine inspector’s report written just after the explosion, suggests that the men had run directly into the afterdamp. They didn’t know from which direction the explosion had come, and in effect, fled straight to their deaths.
As bodies were hauled out of the mine, wives and children drifted up the hill. Some bodies, burnt and mangled beyond recognition, could not be identified. Row upon row of corpses lay on the ground. Some were loaded onto a boxcar and hauled away to be stored at the schoolhouse in Scofield, and news of the tragedy spread across the West. The tally of the dead revealed some horrific numbers: Nine members of the Luoma family died. The Hunters lost 11. In total, 107 widows, 270 children without fathers and three orphans.
A large proportion of these were Finnish families. Life had been brutal enough, with a dangerous oceanic crossing and a difficult trek across the continent to Utah. And there were the slurs and insults. But nothing compared to having the fathers, sons, husbands, brothers and nephews snatched away.
Now, the Undertakers Descended on the Town
Mine safety in the early 20th century was understandably not as advanced as today. Yet it wasn’t primitive, either. Requirements for ventilation, escape routes and levels of noxious gasses were enforced. The state had a mining safety inspector, and in 1897, Gomer Thomas visited the mine, giving it a clean bill of health.
His investigation of the accident was far from conclusive. But after examining singed timbers, debris and charred corpses, he concluded that someone in No. 4 inadvertently ignited gunpowder, touching off an even larger blast when it mingled with the coal dust hanging in the air. Coal dust is highly combustible, but enough water vapor in the air will keep it under control. The air in the Winter Quarters mine, however, had been dry and thick with dust. “The blast shot down along the main and main-back entries of No. 4 mine, gathering combustibles, such as dust, powder, etc., within reach,” Thomas wrote. “Part of the blast shot out to the surface through No. 4 tunnel and air shaft, and part went through No. 1 mine.”
Covered bodies in a schoolroom after the 1900 Scofield mine disaster. Photo by George Edward Anderson (1860-1928), courtesy L. Tom Perry Special Collections, Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University
In 1936, Federal Bureau of Mines investigator Daniel Harrington—who had also worked at Winter Quarters following the explosion—drafted a report on the disaster, based on extensive research. “Two men, wearing the old-time oil lamps, were making up some cartridges of black blasting powder at a point in their workroom where they had at least three, and probably more, 25-pound kegs of black blasting powder available,” he wrote. “Presumably on making up the charge, the flame of their open light in some way or other came in contact with the granular black blasting powder and the explosion was precipitated with the resultant loss of 200 lives.”
The Finns were destitute. Many were in deep debt to the company, owing money for housing and supplies from the company store. Sometimes, as much as 95% of a worker’s pay had been deducted to pay off these debts. What had been a hardscrabble existence suddenly became unbearable.
Funeral trains rolled out of Scofield, heading east to Colorado and north to Salt Lake City. The mining company provided the coffins and the clothes and forgave families’ debts at the company store. The company also offered $500 to each family, in exchange for agreements to not hold it liable for further damages.
A few days after the explosion, a Lutheran minister came down from Wyoming to preside over the funeral. Mormon officials came to town to conduct their funerals. Even in death, the community remained segregated. That evening, clouds rolled into the valley and the winds picked up. Sheets of rain forced the last of the mourners indoors.
One-hundred years after the horrific mining disaster at the Winter Quarters Mine vestiges and evidence of the event can still be found at the site. The Library of Congress maintains an archive of images and mine schematics (above) from the Federal Bureau of Mines investigation—which wasn’t fully completed until 1936. Photo courtesy Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division
The Scofield disaster highlighted the dangers of concentrated coal dust. Up to that point, the chief culprit in mine disasters had been a buildup of methane gasses. Yet after Scofield, miners, companies, inspectors and officials began to look into the possibility that coal dust was more than a minor irritant. But it would take other explosions, more deaths, including a 1924 explosion at Castle Gate, Utah, killing 172, before anyone would take coal dust seriously.
The Scofield explosion also focused attention on the perilous conditions of mine work. Miners in the area staged an unsuccessful strike the following year, but set the wheels in motion for reform. Real change in the industry did not occur until 1933, following a major national strike.
But take a walk through Scofield’s cemetery on a warm, still day, something much like the morning of May 1, 1900. Under the hillsides around you, seams of coal are locked in darkness. Underfoot, men and boys, locked in darkness.
Read More
My Loving Vigil Keeping by Carla Kelly (Cedar Fort, 1992)
This historical romance, based on the Scofield Mine disaster of 1900, features Della, a young woman who takes a teaching position up in the Utah town above Scofield for a year. She gives up the comforts of bustling Salt Lake City to teach school in the rural coal mining town. When tragedy strikes in the Scofield Mine, Della’s life will be changed forever.
History Of The Scofield Mine Disaster:A Concise Account Of The Incidents And Scenes That Took Place At Scofield, Utah, May 1, 1900 by James W. Dilley (Kessinger Publishing, republished in 2009)
Originally published in 1900, the book provides an account of the events leading up to the disaster, the rescue efforts and the aftermath. Dilley provides detailed information about the mining industry in Utah at the time and the conditions that led to the disaster.
The Next Time We Strike: Labor in Utah’s Coal Fields, 1900-1933 by Allan Kent Powell (University of Colorado Press, 1992)
In the traumatic days that followed the disaster, the surviving miners began to understand that they, too, might be called to make this ultimate sacrifice for mine owners and begin a struggle for unionization. The Next Time We Strike explores the ethnic tensions and nativistic sentiments that hampered unionization efforts even in the face of mine explosions.
Summer in Utah is the best time for a spontaneous weekend adventure. One tried-and-true way to take advantage of the Beehive State’s unique culture is to take a drive along Utah’s section of U.S. Highway 89. From Garden City to Kanab, Highway 89 showcases authentic Utah eateries, historic landmarks, awe-inspiring sceneries and much more—perfect for the whole family to enjoy, or for a couple’s getaway. So load up the car and settle in, let’s explore Highway 89!
Night before:
Begin your trip in the Northern Utah town Garden City, home of Bear Lake and near the Idaho border, check in to Conestoga Ranch (conestogaranch.com) for a glamping experience in a covered-wagon tent. Pick up a quick and easy dinner at seasonally opened La Beau’s (labeaus.com), where they serve Bear Lake’s famous raspberry milkshakes and other small-town fast food.
Bear Lake. Photo by Marc Piscotty / Visit Utah
Day One: Garden City to Salt Lake City (120 mi)
After a night in Garden City, spend the morning in the city. Enjoy breakfast at Campfire Grill Restaurant (campfiregrillrestaurant.com) with a classic American breakfast or some cinnamon french toast. Rent a boat or canoe to spend some time in the water or walk around the lake and see why Garden City is known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies.”
After a slow and calm morning in Bear Lake, get on Highway 89 and head down to Brigham City. The small town’s iconic Peach City restaurant (thepeachcity.com), located right on Main Street, is an all-American diner experience and was voted to have the best fries in Utah by KSL Studio 5.
The section of Highway 89 between Brigham City and Willard is also known as the “Fruit Highway.” With an array of Utah-grown produce ranging from peaches to cherries to raspberries, these fresh fruit stands are at their peak in mid-late summertime.
Further down 89 is Ogden, Utah. What was once a rail hub for the Western United States has now turned into its own quirky town, unique to many other Utah cities. Ogden’s iconic Historic 25th Street is currently in the running for USA Today’s best USA main street. With a variety of things to do, from axe throwing to walk-in tattoos to exploring various restaurants, 25th Street brings a lot to the table. Enjoy dinner at Roosters Brewing (roostersbrewingco.com) on the famous street with classic brewery-style foods like Carne Asada tacos, burrata and pesto pizza, and a gorgonzola bacon burger.
After dinner, make your way south to settle down for the night in the state’s capital. Salt Lake City’s Little America Hotel (saltlake.littleamerica.com) promises a comfortable and charming night’s stay, and has been an iconic part of the city’s history for generations.
Day Two: Salt Lake City to Marysvale (190 mi)
Awake to the gorgeous skyline of Salt Lake City and head down to Finns (finnscafe.net), a Scandinavian-influenced cafe, for breakfast. Partake in their famous sourdough pancakes, a traditional Scandinavian breakfast, Wienerschnitzel and eggs or any other breakfast food that the heart may desire.
Natural History Museum dinosaur display. Photo by Marc Piscotty
Finish up in SLC with the Natural History Museum of Utah (nhmu.utah.edu), located on the mountainside of the University of Utah’s campus. Learn about Utah’s rich geological and archeological history from every period of Earth’s history. With regularly changing inventory, there is always something new to discover.
After exploring the state’s capitol, hop back on Highway 89 and head south to Provo. Stop for lunch at Black Sheep Cafe (blacksheepcafe.com), a Native American-owned restaurant that serves a variety of Navajo tacos, a Utah-specific cuisine made up of taco fillings on frybread.
After leaving Provo to venture even further South, Utah’s metropolitan area starts to diminish as its more rural and natural areas start to take over. Take a break in Manti to experience the Pioneer Heritage Gardens and to take a stretch before the remainder of the day’s trip.
Along the route is Big Rock Candy Mountain, take a peek at the seemingly normal mountain, the namesake to an iconic American folk song.
Stop for dinner at Coach’s Dog House in Marysvale. Coach’s offers classic hot dogs and hamburgers for a simple, but satisfying meal to end the long day of driving through the Beehive state. Lay down for the night at the Pine Creek Cabins Resort (pinecreekcabinsresort.com) for a night in one of their cozy cabins, a summertime classic.
Day Three: Sevier to Kanab (115 mi)
Wake up from a peaceful night in a cabin and head just shy of an hour south to Wanderlust Cowgirl Coffee (wanderlustcowgirlcoffee.com) to live out your Wild West dreams. Order coffee, fruity drinks, like smoothies, energy drinks or orange cream, and some breakfast food to gather energy for the long road ahead.
The Narrows at Zion National Park. Photo by David Pettit / Visit Utah
Though Highway 89 does pass through Zion National Park, it does lead to East Zion Adventures (eastzionadventures.com). Before Southern Utah’s blazing sun gets the best of the day, spend the morning canyoneering, jeep touring, UTV-ing or even horseback riding at East Zion Adventures.
Less than half an hour down the road is Thunderbird Restaurant (thunderbirdutah.com) in Mt. Carmel, a great lunch stop to sit, enjoy the view and cool down after a morning out in the desert heat. Enjoy their Carmel Mountain burger or Thunderbird sandwich, with a variety of lunch classics on the menu as well.
Once you’ve arrived in Kanab (a.k.a Utah’s ‘Little Hollywood), indulge fans of old Western films at Little Hollywood Land (littlehollywoodmuseum.org). The museum features information about Hollywood from 1924 to today and gives visitors insight as to why the Southern Utah city has drawn filmmakers for nearly 80 years.
After a day of museums and the outdoors, enjoy the scenery at Wild Thyme Cafe (wildthymekanab.com) in Kanab. Savor the farm-to-table freshness of the restaurant’s high-quality food as you recount the details of your Highway 89 trip.
Take in the sandstone scenery for the last stay of the trip at Cave Lake Canyon Ranch (cavelakes.com). Experience a night of glamping in the ranch’s luxurious tents in Southern Utah’s unique and extraordinary landscape.
Final Morning:
As the trip comes to its close, grab a morning pick-me-up at Taro Coffee Bar (tarocoffeebar.com) while deciding your return route, see what adventures I-15 may bring on the way up North or embark on a whole new adventure.
Though Highway 89 runs from Yellowstone to Flagstaff, Utah’s portion of the US highway brings its own, unique adventures that offer insight into Utah’s culture. From Northern Utah’s delicious fruit to Southern Utah’s Wild West appeal, exploring U.S. 89 offers a new look into these cultural gems.
