Springdale, Utah: From Pioneer Settlement to the Gateway of Zion National Park

Beneath the towering cliffs of Zion National Park, a small farming town learned to survive floods, famine, and tragedies. This episode of What Once Was uncovers the forgotten story of Springdale, Utah—from its early Mormon pioneer settlers and water-powered mills, to its midwives, miracles, and devastating disasters that shaped life along the Virgin River.

You’ll hear how a community of farmers and craftsmen became the Gateway to Zion, weathering the floods, the rise and fall of Cable Mountain’s flying lumber, the building of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel, the arrival of the CCC, and the sacrifices of World War I and II.

It’s a story of faith, family, and transformation—where joy became the answer to sorrow, and a canyon became a sanctuary for the world.

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The stories I share are based on old records, newspapers, local legends, and oral histories. While I do my best to tell them truthfully, some details may be lost to time.

Please remember—many of the places we mention are on private land. Don’t trespass or go exploring without permission. Let’s keep history alive without disturbing what’s left of it.

Intro music is "A Calm Hellfire" by the Wayward Hearts

Banjo Sound Effect by freesound_community from Pixabay