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
that have been 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.
Over the coming months, we will be focusing on the buildings and homes that were built by the Swiss settlers in the years following their arrival in Santa Clara, If you have information about one of these homes or buildings, we would love it if you would share what you know, and we can add it to our presentation when we highlight that property.
We begin our series this month with a focus on the chapels, the Relief Society house and the School, which were all built by 1912.
Homes and Buildings of the Pioneer Era
in Santa Clara, Utah
When the Swiss Company arrived in Santa Clara on November 28, 1861, the Indian Missionaries had already constructed a small 16 x 24 ft. adobe structure near by the Fort and were using it as a combination chapel and school house. They had been in this vicinity since May 1854. This structure was washed away in the flood of December 1961, which also destroyed the fort.
A town site was chosen on higher ground about three-fourths of a mile below the fort. On December 22, 1861 the dedication of the new site was held - Daniel Bonelli offeried the dedicatory prayer. A committee divided the town into lots of 72 square rods each, also the vineyard land was laid off. The plots were numbered and corresponding numbers were placed in a hat. Brother Bonelli drew the numbers and gave them to the various families.
In 1862-1863, less than a year after the arrival of the Swiss Company, they built a 28 ft. x 40 ft. adobe structure on the northwest section of the public square-about where the northwest section of the older downtown chapel is located. Later, a second room was added on the north side. This room was elevated and used for a combination stage and classroom, with a curtain separating the two sections. This building served as a school, amusement hall and church for many years.
The first chapel built by the Swiss Settlers
(about 1862)
The 2nd chapel built in Santa Clara (1902)
By 1895 It was decided that a new church house should be built as the old one was too small, so a site was selected southeast of where the chapel then stood.
A rock foundation 36 x 54 ft. was laid, but was left unfinished for two years because of lack of unity as to size and location of the building. In 1897 this foundation was torn up and another one laid just west of the disputed location and south of the church house they were then using.
This structure was made of brick which were formed and fired in home-made kilns at the building site. The structure cost a little over $4,000 and was dedicated April 27, 1902 . This building also served multiple uses in the community, as a church, school and social hall for the growing communitiy.
This church house con sisted of one room with an elevated rostrum and benches for those presiding. There were four arched windows on each side of the building with two in front, as also an arched double door. Curtains were drawn to divide the chapel into four classrooms.
This arrangement of classrooms was not entirely satisfactory but some relief was provided when in June 1908 a small, one-roomed adobe Relief Society House was built nearby. In addition to Relief Society meetings, it was used as a classroom for church and school.
In 1912-1913 a beautiful cement block, two-story schoo house was erected with pride and loving care between the little Relief Society House and Church House. The four large rooms on the ground floor were then used for Sunday School classes and other meetings.
Information for this posting has been taken from "History of Santa Clara-1854-1933 by Nellie Ray and Joel E. Ricks (Utah State University Library) and various writings by Nellie M. Gubler.
Museum Hours
The Santa Clara History Museum is open during the following days and hours:
Monday-Thursday - 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Fridays - 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Closed Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays
Special tours are available.
Contact Sherri at (435) 632-7040
Admission is Free!
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].