For several decades now, St. George City has been the steward and planner for a historic preservation revival in Utah’s Dixie. The centerpiece of which is the town square where the historic Woodward School, Tabernacle, and original Dixie College building (seen at left) all stand. All in deep red sandstone, these buildings reflect the burnished color of the surrounding hills, but tell a richer story, one of pioneer ancestry, faith, dedication, and hard work.
But also a story of sound principles of planning and architecture which are still followed today in the pioneer center of St. George. The historic building of the town square are now joined by fountains, open space, and the city’s new public library which is built to design specifications that allow it to fit into the town square, yet not replicate the historic buildings. Main Street (seen at bottom right), the Green Gate Village B&B, Ancestor Square, and the Opera House complex are but a few of the nearby historic buildings that have all been rehabilitated.
Historic preservation has been the centerpiece of St. George’s planning efforts and house some of most interesting
galleries, businesses, events, and accommodations. Utah Heritage Foundation is pleased to support St. George city and the numerous organizations and owners who invest in rehabilitation. Susan Crook, Central and Southern Utah Field Rep for Utah Heritage Foundation, is available to assist with historic preservation projects throughout the region by contacting her at 435.773.5336 or susan@utahheritagefoundation.org.
S