First University West of the Mississippi

The University of Utah began in a front room. In November 1850, just three years after the pioneers arrived, the University of Deseret opened in John Pack's home on this corner with forty students and one teacher, Cyrus Collins — tuition paid in produce and lumber, which Pack sold on the school's behalf. It wandered for decades, from the Council House to a ward hall and back, before taking the name University of Utah in 1892 and settling on its present campus in 1900. It claims rank as the oldest university west of the Mississippi.

What the plaque says

The parent school or the University of Deseret, established November 11, 1850 in the home of John Pack, was located on this corner. Forty students enrolled the first year. Produce, lumber, etc. were taken for tuition and sold by Mr. Pack. Cyrus W. Collins was the first teacher. In 1851 the school was moved to the Council House, then to 13th Ward Hall, in 1867 back to the Council House, 1876 to Union Square 2nd West & 1st North Streets. In 1892 the name was changed to University of Utah and in Sept. 1900 moved to the present site.

Where it stands

Worth the stop nearby

• Temple Square — 0.2 mi
  The spiritual and architectural heart of Salt Lake City
• Salt Lake City — 0.3 mi
  Utah's capital and largest city — where the Wasatch Range meets the Great Salt Lake.
• Ensign Peak — 1.2 mi
  A short hike to the spot where Brigham Young surveyed the valley
• Liberty Park — 2.2 mi
  Salt Lake Citys beloved 80-acre urban park since 1882

More markers nearby

• Kimball-Whitney Cemetery — steps away
• McCune Mansion (2) — steps away
• Civil Engineering Landmark — 0.2 mi
• The Law, Government, Liberty and The Way — 0.2 mi