New Book Releases

Within the memory of the present generation the map of North America represented the region now covered by the Territories of Utah, Wyoming, Arizona, the State of Nevada and the western part of Colorado, as the Great American Desert. In fact, until the explorations of Bonneville and Fremont, little if anything was known of its character. As early as 1833, Captain Bonneville had trappers on Green River--a tributary of the Colorado--and in July of that year he sent a party from that point westward, to explore this vast region. Passing down what is now called Ogden River, they discovered the Great Salt Lake. Colonel Fremont came afterwards, in 1842, and remained exploring in and around the Great Desert until 1846, but save for these travelers, the country was visited only by trappers and hunters. The advent of civilization into the Great American Desert was on the arrival of the Mormon Pioneers, after their exodus from Nanvoo, in Illinois.

Utah's Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area offers breathtaking natural resources, powerful historical drama and intriguing cultural traditions. This rich legacy is built on old-world values of cooperation, industry, ingenuity and true grit--as well as a miracle or two. From frontier justice and lost treasure to the lasting contributions of a Presbyterian minister and a Jewish settlement, talented regional historians, educators and storytellers bring to life these legends, lore and true tales from the heart of Mormon country.

In the 1840s, land west of the Missouri River was a new frontier for courage, adventure, freedom and true grit. During this era and the decades that followed, Utah became the focal point for many brave settlers yearning for a new way of life. While Utah's proud Mormon legacy is well documented, there are lesser-known stories that contribute to the state's fascinating history. Join public historian, author and history columnist Eileen Hallet Stone for a look into the state's forgotten past as she presents a revelatory collection of tales culled from her popular Salt Lake Tribune Living History column. From newly freed slaves, early suffragists, desert farmers and union men to railroad kings, cattle barons, influential statesmen and more, this is Hidden History of Utah.

From the rugged beauty and refined splendor of this vast state emerges a remarkable volume of personal recollections, narrative histories and astonishing stories. Explore the fortitude and cultural diversity behind the development of Utah through Big Bill Haywood, vilified by the New York Times as the most feared figure in America. Experience compelling accounts of women bruised on the front lines of suffrage battles, enthralling stories of Chinese paper sons and daughters and heroic endeavors of Northern Ute firefighters. Celebrate downtown's Wall Street of the West, the off-road cyclist known as the Bedouin of the Desert and Utah's love affair with sweets. Culled from her popular Salt Lake Tribune Living History column, award-winning author Eileen Hallet Stone uncovers captivating tales of ordinary people and their extraordinary contributions that shaped Utah history.