In 1847, led by Brigham Young, the first Mormon emigrants entered the Salt Lake valley seeking religious freedom. The story of this 1300 mile exodus across the Great Plains to the Rocky Mountains is well-known as a remarkable story of hard work, dedication and faith. Within days of their arrival crops were planted and an ingenious irrigation system implemented.  Forts and homes were built and surrounding areas explored.  The children were educated in a “tent school.”  Within three years a territorial government was established, a newspaper was in circulation and a theatre was built. By the time the first
Transcontinental railroad was completed at Promontory, Utah, in 1869; more than 60,000 people had come to Utah by covered wagon or handcart. By 1900 Nearly 500 settlements had been founded by the Mormons. Salt Lake has since become the “Crossroads of the West.” 

Salt Lake was the proud host of the 2002 Olympic Games.  The Olympic Torch from these games sits on the University of Utah campus.  Downtown Salt Lake is the site of many 2002 Olympic venues

Growth:   

The growth in the Salt Lake Valley and Utah in general can be described as booming.  The area is one of the fastest growing areas in the nation.