We acknowledge that we work, play, and recreate on the traditional and ancestral homelands of the Newe (Shoshone and Goshute), Núuchiu (Ute) peoples. We recognize and respect the enduring relationship that exists between these Indigenous nations and this county, and we honor their past, present, and future stewardship of this land. To learn more about the living history and culture of the region’s original caretakers, please visit the official website for the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation.
A Basic History
With deep respect for this land and its original caretakers, our story is closely intertwined with the rich history of Davis County. Long before the arrival of pioneer settlers, this region was a vital home and territory for the Shoshone and Goshute nations.
In the mid-19th century, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chose this area as one of their first settlements, drawn by the lush pastures, fertile soil along the benches, and fresh streams flowing down from the Wasatch Mountains. While the community’s early growth was gradual, with many early residents traveling to Ogden and Salt Lake City for work, the region was permanently transformed by the arrival of the Utah Central Railroad (now the Union Pacific). Crossing the county from Ogden to Salt Lake City, the railroad catalyzed modern transportation, mechanized agriculture, new utility systems, and a massive surge in local commerce and banking.
The onset of World War II and the establishment of Hill Air Force Base marked a major turning point for the region, sparking rapid population growth and expanding economic opportunities far beyond traditional farming. Since the 1950s, Davis County has seen its population nearly double about every 20 years. As we look toward a vibrant future. With a population estimated to reach approximately 390,000 by 2030, we remain dedicated to honoring our roots, building community, and responsibly stewarding the spaces we share.
For a deeper exploration into the archival records, public landmarks, and leadership of our area, you can visit the official Davis County History Page.
Visualizing Our Shared History
To see how this history maps onto our community today, we invite you to explore this interactive map created by our friends of the Davis County museums.
The markers on this map indicate general areas where Davis County pioneers recorded Indigenous campgrounds, as well as locations where artifacts were discovered by later generations. It also highlights the specific areas where settlers and Indigenous peoples interacted. Historically, these interactions increased along local streams and foothills due to their close proximity to the mountains and canyons where wildlife was abundant.
While many of these physical locations have been built over or paved in the 21st century, this map serves as a vital tool to help us remember, locate, and honor the deep history beneath our feet.
Interactive Timeline: Journey Through Time
Click through the slides below to explore the eras that shaped our region
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The Early People
Our history begins nearly 12,000 years ago with the nomadic Paleo-Indians, who traveled and hunted across this region. They tracked mammoths, bison, and even ancient camels (yes, camels were once native to Utah!).
Centuries later, the horticulturist Fremont people established communities here, living in shallow, earth-covered dwellings. By around A.D. 1300, the ancestors of the Southern Paiute, Ute, Goshute, and Shoshone nations made the Davis region their enduring home, creating a deep and lasting connection to this land.
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Pioneer Heritage
In 1846, seeking religious refuge, more than 10,000 members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints left their homes in Nauvoo, Illinois, charting a historic course into the American West. Multiple temporary towns and farms were established by these pioneers across Iowa and the Missouri River prior to their arduous trek to the Rocky Mountains. The first expedition to come to Utah quickly discovered the lush land and streams just north of the Great Salt Lake.
In 1850, the area was formally established as a territory, becoming an official county two years later. It was named after early pioneer leader Daniel C. Davis—making it one of the rare Utah counties not named after a natural resource or an Indigenous word.
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Industrial Boom
Choo Choo! The arrival of the transcontinental railroad in 1869 connected Davis to the nation. However, as new industries and technological advancements grew elsewhere, the county initially saw dwindling numbers as residents left family farms for urban jobs outside of agriculture.
That all changed with the onset of World War II and the creation of Hill Field (now Hill Air Force Base). Tasked with repairing and maintaining aircraft for the Army Air Corps, the base sparked a massive job boom. By 1943, Hill Field was the largest employer in Utah, employing 6,000 on-duty military personnel and 15,000 civilian workers.
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Today and into the Future
Beyond industry, Davis evolved into Utah’s undisputed Amusement Capital! Our legacy of play grew rapidly with Lagoon Amusement Park relocating to Farmington in 1899, the opening of Cherry Hill Resort in 1967, and Antelope Island’s designation as a state park in 1993.
With continued additions to our family-friendly environment, it’s no surprise we’ve become a haven for adventurers and residents alike. What Davis County might lack in geographic size, it more than makes up for in incredible people, beautiful parks, and world-class outdoor destinations. It truly is a spectacular place to live, work, and play.
