Orson Pratt House

Orson Pratt measured his way across the West. The apostle-scientist designed the odometer that counted the pioneer trail's miles, entered the Salt Lake Valley with the vanguard in July 1847, and laid out the survey that became Salt Lake City's street grid. Self-taught, he published mathematics and astronomy that earned international notice, and served thirteen terms in the territorial legislature, eight of them as Speaker. He had this house built in 1862 while helping direct the Cotton Mission — the only house in Utah still associated with him.

What the plaque says

The Orson Pratt House is the only remaining house in Utah associated with Orson Pratt, one of the most influential and important leaders in the first half-century of the LDS Church, noted mathematician, astronomer, scientist, author, public servant and educator. Self-educated in a wide range of disciplines, he gained international recognition for some of his published mathematical and astronomical theories. He served 13 terms in the territorial legislature and 8 terms as Speaker of the House of Representatives. Orson Pratt had this house built in 1862 while helping direct the settlement of St. George and the Cotton Mission.

Where it stands

Worth the stop nearby

• St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm — 2.6 mi
  Real dinosaur footprints preserved in ancient sandstone
• Snow Canyon State Park — 7.0 mi
  Red and white sandstone cliffs with ancient lava flows
• Hurricane Canal Trail — 17 mi
  The hand-dug canal that built Hurricane, now a walking trail blasted into the Virgin River gorge
• Kolob Canyons — 33 mi
  The quiet, uncrowded back door to Zion National Park

More markers nearby

• Lucy Bigelow Young — steps away
• Brigham Young Home — steps away
• Erastus Snow's Big House — steps away
• Dixie Academy — steps away