At the Santa Clara History Museum, we honor the rich tapestry of our community's past, woven from the threads of our Swiss heritage and the pioneering spirit of our founders. Join us in celebrating the stories that shaped our identity, from cherished artifacts to vibrant customs handed down through the generations. Come discover the things that make our community unique, delve into our history, and discover the heart of Santa Clara.
Swiss Days 2025
September 25-27, 2025
Comments by Susannah Nillson, Musuem Board Member:
I wanted to share some information about Santa Clara, Utah – a charming town nestled just west of St. George, that truly captivated me. Its history is remarkably rich and deeply layered, offering a fascinating journey through time.
You'll find evidence of ancient civilizations with intriguing Native American sites and petroglyphs, providing a tangible connection to the area's earliest inhabitants.
This is juxtaposed beautifully with the more recent history, exemplified by the well-preserved Jacob Hamblin House, a significant landmark showcasing the pioneer spirit.
The town’s Swiss heritage is palpable; evident in its meticulously maintained, tree-lined historic district. The level of detail dedicated to preserving and interpreting this history is truly exceptional. Santa Clara might boast the most comprehensive collection of historical interpretive signs I've encountered in any small Utah town, making exploration both easy and engaging.
The photos below show the Hug/Gubler Home (left) and the image of Swiss Cantons represented by the original Swiss settlers.
Memories and Stories
We have a section on our website where we can share memories and stories of our time in Santa Clara, whether growing up, attending school, or passing through.
This is a great place to share some of the traditions such as town bell, memories of teachers and experiences at school, interactions with those who've gone on before, etc. And, especially what created these stubborn "Dutchmen" (and women)!"
We're inviting you to share your fond memories (or maybe not-so-fond learning experiences). This would be a great way to communicate our thoughts and feelings about our beautiful community! You can contribute privately or sign your story.
These memories/stories are found under the "Memories" tab. Share your stories and memories by sending them to [email protected].