Vernal history

Foundation and First Steps

The history of Vernal begins with a paradox: the first scouting party sent here by Brigham Young in 1861 declared these lands unfit for life, stating they were only good for "nomadic purposes and holding the world together." However, despite this harsh verdict, the potential of the area was reconsidered.

Actual settlement began in 1873, when Pard Dodds built the first cabin here. Initially, the settlement was known as Ashley Valley, named after the fur trader William Ashley. The city was officially incorporated in 1897, receiving the name Vernal ("spring-like") thanks to the lush greenery that appeared in the valley after the snow melted.

Key Factors of Development

The city's development was defined by its unique geographical location and the resourcefulness of the local residents:

• Geographical Isolation: Its location in the Uinta Basin, surrounded by mountains, made access to the city difficult, which fostered the development of a strong and self-sufficient community.
• Agriculture: Despite the arid climate, settlers created a complex irrigation system, turning the valley into a fertile oasis for growing crops and raising livestock.
• Overcoming Difficulties: The legendary "Hard Winter" of 1879, when food supplies were exhausted, became a turning point that united the residents in the face of the elements.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of early Vernal was built on farming and animal husbandry, but soon acquired unique traits that made the city famous throughout the country.

• "Dinosaur Land": In 1909, paleontologist Earl Douglass discovered rich fossil deposits east of the city. This discovery led to the creation of the Dinosaur National Monument, forever linking the city's name with prehistoric giants.
• The Bank Sent by Mail: In 1916, Vernal entered history thanks to a curious incident. To build a bank, bricks were sent via post (Parcel Post), as this proved cheaper than freight transport. This building is still known as the "Bank sent by mail."
• Honey Production: Thanks to the abundant flowering in the valley, beekeeping became an important part of local culture, reinforcing Utah's nickname as the "Beehive State" at a local level.

Major Historical Milestones

• 1776: The Spanish expedition of Domínguez and Escalante passed through the Uinta Basin, becoming the first Europeans to document this region.
• 1824: Trappers led by William Ashley arrived in the valley, after whom the valley was later named (Ashley Valley).
• 1873: Pard Dodds built the first cabin, becoming the first permanent white settler in this area.
• 1879: The settlement survived the "Hard Winter," which destroyed most of the livestock and forced residents to unite for survival.
• 1897: Vernal was officially incorporated as a city, receiving its name in honour of the spring greenery.
• 1907: Construction of the first Tabernacle was completed, becoming an important religious and social centre of the city.
• 1909: Paleontologist Earl Douglass discovered a massive deposit of dinosaur bones east of the city.
• 1915: President Woodrow Wilson signed a decree creating the Dinosaur National Monument, which attracted tourist attention.
• 1916: The famous Bank of Vernal building was constructed, with bricks delivered by the postal service (Parcel Post) due to lower rates.
• 1948: The discovery of commercially significant oil reserves in Ashley Valley kickstarted an economic boom in the region.
• 1958: The completion of the Steinaker Dam improved the valley's water supply and irrigation system.
• 1997: The historic Tabernacle building was renovated and reopened as the Vernal Temple, becoming a unique example of architectural heritage preservation.

Development Stages and Their Significance

The evolution of Vernal is a story of transforming an isolated agricultural settlement into an important regional centre for energy and tourism. Here are the key stages that defined the modern look of the city:

• Victory over drought (late 19th century). The creation of an extensive system of irrigation canals became the foundation of life in the city. This allowed the desert lands of the Uinta Basin to be turned into fertile fields, cementing Vernal's status as the agricultural centre of the region and ensuring food security for early settlers.
• The Birth of "Dinosaurland" (1915). Granting the status of National Monument to the excavation sites east of the city radically changed the vector of development. Vernal ceased to be just a point on the map and acquired a unique tourism brand. This stimulated the development of the service sector, hotels, and museums, making tourism the second pillar of the economy.
• Unique Urban Planning Solution (1916). The construction of the bank building (Bank of Vernal) using the postal shipment of bricks became not just a historical curiosity, but a symbol of overcoming geographical isolation. This event demonstrated the resourcefulness of the residents and drew the entire country's attention to logistics problems in remote regions of the West.
• Energy Transformation (1948). The discovery of commercial oil reserves in Ashley Valley became the main economic driver of the 20th century. The city experienced rapid industrialisation, an influx of investment and specialists, which led to the modernisation of infrastructure and population growth.
• Hydrotechnical Modernisation (1960s). The construction of the Steinaker Dam and the creation of reservoirs ensured a stable water supply for the growing city and industrial facilities. Furthermore, these projects created new recreational zones (Steinaker State Park), improving the quality of life for citizens.
• Cultural Revitalisation (1997). The reconstruction of the old Tabernacle and its conversion into a functioning temple became an example of careful regard for historical buildings. Instead of demolishing the decaying structure, the city gained an architectural landmark that revitalised the centre of Vernal and preserved the connection between generations.

Urban Planning and Layout

The architectural appearance of Vernal was formed under the influence of early Mormon settlement planning principles and the subsequent development of the city as a tourist and industrial centre. At the heart of the urban structure lies the "Plat of Zion" — a concept with wide streets oriented strictly to the cardinal points, and large blocks, which initially allowed residents to have garden plots right within the city limits.

The main axis of the city is Main Street (highway US-40), along which commercial and tourist infrastructure is lined up, while residential areas retain the atmosphere of a quiet low-rise suburb.

Architectural Styles and Eras

Vernal's built environment reflects the transformation from an isolated outpost into a modern city. Several key stages and their corresponding styles can be highlighted:

• Pioneer Era (1870–1890s): Vernacular Architecture.
  The first structures were strictly functional. Available materials were used: logs and adobe. Little has survived to this day, but these buildings (for example, early cabins) are characterised by simple forms and a lack of decoration.
• Turn of the Century (1900–1920s): Victorian Eclectic and Brick Style.
  With the arrival of stability and the development of brick production, the city centre began to transform. Buildings of this period are distinguished by durability and restrained decor. Red brick, arched windows, and decorative cornices predominate.
• Religious Monumentality (1900–1907): Colonial Revival.
  The most significant public buildings were constructed with an eye on classical forms, adapted to local conditions. They are characterised by symmetry, domes, and strict lines.
• Mid-20th Century (1950–1970s): Roadside Modernism and "Googie".
  The oil boom and the development of car tourism brought the aesthetics of motels and diners to Vernal. Neon signs, flat roofs, and elements of "novelty architecture" exploiting the dinosaur theme appeared.

Iconic Buildings and Structures

The appearance of Vernal is defined by several key objects that serve as architectural landmarks of the city:

• Vernal Temple (former Uintah Tabernacle).
  Built in 1907, this building is a striking example of Colonial Revival with elements of the Victorian style. Originally serving as a community centre, it was saved from demolition and rebuilt into a temple in 1997. Characteristic features: red brick, two domes, and strict symmetry.
• Bank of Vernal Building (Zions Bank).
  The famous "Bank sent by mail" (1916). It represents a classic example of the Commercial Style of the early 20th century. The facade is made of textured brick with decorative inserts, demonstrating the solidity of a financial institution of that time.
• Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum (former Tithing Office).
  One of the oldest stone buildings in the city, built from local sandstone. It demonstrates the transition from temporary wooden structures to permanent stone construction, characteristic of the public needs of the Mormon community in the late 19th century.

Prominent Figures of Vernal

The history and modernity of Vernal are inextricably linked with people whose achievements went far beyond Ashley Valley. From Wild West pioneers to Hollywood stars, here is a list of key figures associated with this city.

• Pard Dodds — First settler and rancher.
  Considered the first permanent resident of Ashley Valley. In 1873, he built the first cabin here, proving by his example that the harsh terrain was suitable for life. His activities laid the foundation for the future founding of the city.
• Earl Douglass — Paleontologist.
  The scientist who forever changed the fate of the region. In 1909, he discovered one of the world's largest dinosaur burial sites east of the city. His finds led to the creation of the Dinosaur National Monument, making Vernal an important point on the global scientific and tourist map.
• William H. Coltharp — Entrepreneur and banker.
  The man who made Vernal famous thanks to his resourcefulness. In 1916, he organised the delivery of 80,000 bricks for the construction of a bank via the postal service (Parcel Post), as it was cheaper than freight transport. This case went down in the history of American logistics.
• James Woods — Actor and producer.
  World-famous Hollywood actor, winner of Golden Globe and Emmy awards, was born in Vernal in 1947. Known for roles in films such as "Once Upon a Time in America", "Casino", and "Hercules".
• E. Gordon Gee — Academic figure.
  A Vernal native who became one of the most prominent figures in the US higher education system. He has served as president of several prestigious universities, including Brown University, Vanderbilt University, and Ohio State University.
• Valoy Eaton — Artist.
  A talented landscape painter born in Vernal. His works, capturing the beauty of the American West's nature, are exhibited in leading galleries and have received critical acclaim as outstanding examples of modern realism.