Orem

Images of America: Utah

by Jay H. Buckley, Chase Arnold, Orem Public Library

In 1861, a group of hardy pioneers ascended the "Provo Bench" that overlooks Utah Lake. With dreams of fruit orchards and vegetable fields, they uprooted the sagebrush, dug irrigation canals, and planted crops. These farms were successful, and they helped transform Orem into a dynamic community by the time the railroad arrived. The produce was boxed and shipped across Utah on the Orem Line, and the Provo/Orem area earned the nickname "Garden City of Utah." Incorporated in 1919, Orem was transformed again during World War II when the U.S. government constructed Geneva Steel Mill on the shores of Utah Lake. Blue collar workers joined farmers and ranchers in building a city. Orem supports higher education and is home to Utah Valley University. Although malls and subdivisions have replaced many of the orchards and the steel mill has closed, Orem remains rooted in its past while growing towards its future.

Genres: History

128 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2010

Reviews

[Patrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is 4 stars for what it is--a history in pictures of a non-descript town with no particularly notable incidents in its history. They did a good job of tracking town stories and and especially pictures. This will only be of interest to those with some connection to Orem.

[Peter Wolfley · Rating 4 out of 5]

The history of Orem is actually a lot more interesting than you might think. I've really enjoyed the deep dive I was able to take as we celebrated 100 years of a great city.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a brief history of Orem, Utah with loads of photos. It is very well written by someone (Jay) with a good knowledge of area (he lives here).