In 1876, Issac Riddle tilled the soil in this barren land and called it home. His ranch in John's Valley became an important regrouping point for those who were a part of the San Juan Expedition in 1879. Even in the beginning it was somewhat of a ghost town as it was used mostly by cattlemen to run their stock. Little permanent residents called it home.
The bell tower
Over the years what began as Issac Riddle's ranch was known by several names including Adairville (1903), Houston (1910) and Winder (1912). and then finally Widtsoe (1912).
In 1919 this small community boasted a population of 365 residents- a regular boom town. Sawmills, homes, two hotels, a church, and a school all lay claim to this town. It was even home to the United States Forest Service office. However, with the troubling climate- years of drought- the land became almost impossible to house cattle or grow crops. The population hit a major decline. In 1935, there were only 17 remaining families.
Today, all that remains intact is this single solitary schoolhouse which soon the elements will too take. It holds the story of this small town, its once industrious spirit, and the witness of better times for this sage brush swept land.
The upper inside of the school house
While the school house is all that remains intact, there is evidence of other building which once populated Widtsoe.
We enjoyed wandering the meadows of this "ghost town" discovering relics.
I do have a trick or two up my sleeve on how get Rigby to take me on my adventures. Its simple, I look for a fishing spot and/or hike and I have him hooked--- then we are both happy! And our "Fab 5" they are pretty good to indulge mommy's hobbies.
The hunt for the Widtsoe Cemetery was quite the adventure because from experience I assumed that all graveyards are located next to the town who's name they take- not so. The Widstoe cemetery is actually a few miles south of the ghost town Widstoe. In fact in order to find this grave yard, I had to get the Piute Office seat on the phone and then their resident expert to direct Rigby to this little treasure.
The adventure was well worth it-- this little grave yard is certainly unique. In fact, families have been buried there for generations and continue to do so to present day. One catch, the family of the deceased has to dig the grave themselves by hand- there are no back hoes here.
So maybe this cemetery is not so much haunted but historic. But is definitely worth the "wander." After all the leaves are bursting in a kaleidoscope of color, the air is crisp with Autumn and nature is begging for a visit... where will you Autumn Adventure take you?
Directions to Widtsoe take 1-15 going North then take exit 95 to Panguitch, Turn right on Utah 12-E, turn left on Johns Valley Road, turn right on old Escalante Way and then take the first right--- you have arrived!
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