Utah Gov. Cox’s Visit to Territorial Statehouse Ends With a Bang

FILLMORE, UTAH — Following his inauguration as Utah’s 18th governor in St. George Monday morning, Governor Spencer Cox and his staff embarked on a trip across Utah that ended at the Utah State Capitol in Salt Lake City.

Along the way, Governor Cox made a stop in Fillmore at the Territorial Statehouse State Park Museum where he not only signed his first executive order (relating to occupational licensing), but also lit the fuse on an 18th-century replica cannon.

January 4, 2021, not only marked the day of Governor Cox’s inauguration, but it also falls on Utah’s 125th anniversary of statehood. Territorial Statehouse also has its fair share of Utah history dating back to the early years of the state.

The Territorial Statehouse in Fillmore is Utah’s oldest existing government building in Utah, and now one of 44 state parks throughout the state. In anticipation of Utah’s statehood, Brigham Young directed the construction of the building as Utah’s capitol.

Only the south wing was ever completed. The existing portion was finished in time for the December 1855 meeting of the Territorial Legislature, which was the only full session held in the statehouse. In December 1858, the seat of government returned to Salt Lake City. 

Today, this park is a favorite for both locals and visitors looking to explore Utah’s history in a more rural setting. Each year people flock to Territorial Statehouse for the Statehood Dance, holiday light displays, educational tours, and even arts and crafts parties. 

Territorial Statehouse State Park Museum includes a store and auditorium. Adjoining the museum is an All-American Rose Society Garden and picnic area. Two restored pioneer cabins and an 1867 stone schoolhouse are also located on the grounds. Camping and lodging accommodations are located nearby for those looking to extend their stay in the Fillmore area.