Monroe

Established 1863

Picture entitled "Gates" by Lorna Hamblin. This is the Monroe community center "dance hall" that has been recently demolished.

Uniquely Us

Monroe has been home to generations of families who revere its award-winning spring water, pristine air, safe streets, and swift access to a plethora of natural wonders.

Bubbling hot springs, mysterious Indian ruins, meandering waterways and sheer cliff canyon walls set Monroe apart as a world unlike any other. Flanked on all sides by majestic mountain ranges, citizens and visitors marvel at the stars in this Dark Sky Park, and at the fluttering leaves of "quakies" (quaking aspen trees) that make up our nearby "Pando," the largest living organism on earth. Rocky Mountain wildlife graces the hillsides.

For millennia, natural forces have been at work generating a world-class air sports arena for pilots and fliers of free-flight vehicles (think paragliders, etc.) A tangle of dirt roads and trails call to explorers, both young and old. Blossoming and budding businesses offer service with a smile. Monroe boasts naturally occurring geothermal pools in the foothills, popular ATV and bike trails, hunting, fishing, camping and other recreational opportuities. Only six miles east of I-70, Monroe is close to five Utah National Parks, Fish Lake and Lake Powell.

What sets a Monrovian apart is work ethic, generosity and friendliness, so be sure to wave back!
 

History

Monroe is nestled in a little green valley below majestic snow-capped mountains in the southern end of Sevier County. Sent by their religious leader, Utah colonizer, Brigham Young, Monroe was first settled in 1864 by 32 families who found a large expanse of sage brush, a generous stream of water from the main canyon, cottonwood trees and willows as well as small animals and deer. The natural resources of rock, lime, clay and timber surrounding the semi-arid valley were used almost exclusively to build Monroe into the thriving community it is today.

The early settlers were brave, industrious and hard-working. Freedom of religion, high educational values and a love for art and music allowed the people and the city to grow and support farms, dairies, small businesses, churches and schools.

Monroe is proud of its pioneer heritage and continues to honor their legacy by preserving the historic beauty of its old homes, buildings and farms. Our 2,000+ citizens acknowledge the dedication of those early settlers, their descendants and the many people who have found this little green valley and call it home.

Founding Families

Coming soon! Our historian is in the process of gathering information.

Compiled by Angie Card, Monroe Historian and Jennifer Nackowski, SCAHS Director, December 11, 2024

Why the name?

Coming soon! Our historian is in the process of gathering information.