Val Verda Arch

Val Verda has been announcing itself since 1917, when developer V. A. Bettilyon hung an electric sign across Orchard Drive — steel mesh on stone pillars, lightbulbs spelling the subdivision's name, visible for miles down the valley. The name was meant as Spanish for green valley, and the district among south Davis County's orchards kept its country identity even as Bountiful grew around it. A second arch replaced the original in 1961; a truck demolished that one in 1977. Residents paid for this third arch themselves, dedicated in 1983; a companion panel names more than two hundred of them.

What the plaque says

Val Verda Arch 1917-1983 Dedicated on July 23, 1983 In honor of all past, present and future residents of "Val Verda" (Spanish for "green valley") Especially Mr. V. A. Bettilyon, who in 1917 saw beyond the June grass and oak brush to envision green valleys and hills filled with the beautiful homes and gardens of today. Arch history Original arch 1917 to 1959 Second arch 1961 to 1977 Present restoration completed in July of 1983 under the guidance and permission of the Davis County Board of Commissioners: With special thanks to Edwin V. Davis dedicated protector of the arch "Those who care — find fulfillment"

Where it stands

Worth the stop nearby

• Ensign Peak — 4.5 mi
  A short hike to the spot where Brigham Young surveyed the valley
• Temple Square — 5.9 mi
  The spiritual and architectural heart of Salt Lake City
• Salt Lake City — 5.9 mi
  Utah's capital and largest city — where the Wasatch Range meets the Great Salt Lake.
• Red Butte Garden — 7.0 mi
  A 100-acre botanical garden with panoramic valley views

More markers nearby

• District School of South Bountiful — 0.4 mi
• Pioneer Cemetery — 1.4 mi
• Hogan Pioneer Cabin — 1.4 mi
• Jeremiah Willey Cabin — 1.9 mi