By Sona Schmidt-Harris | [email protected]

In 2011, what was thought to be the oldest building in Holladay, the Meadows cabin, was put in storage. Each log was carefully numbered for future reassembly.

“The Holladay Historical Commission is working with Steve Johnson and Tim Maxwell to restore the Meadows Cabin,” Sandy Meadows of the Holladay Historical Commission said. “Both of these men have restored many old, historical buildings and cabins and feel that the Meadows Cabin is worth restoring.” 

The first couple to live in the 1850s cabin was Emma Meadows Smyth and Simon Smyth. They sailed from Liverpool, England in 1853 on the “Golconda.” Part of the Mormon migration, they trekked eastward from Council Bluffs, Iowa with the Claudius V. Spencer Company. When traveling westward, they came upon 500 Native Americans to whom the company gave sugar and tobacco in exchange for safe passage.

Upon arrival in Holladay, Simon Smyth built a cabin near what is now 2121 Walker Lane.

Following Simon Smyth’s death in 1882, Arthur Mann Meadows (Emma Meadows’ nephew) built a home with adjoining rooms to the Smyths’ home. He married Margaret Atkinson in 1889 and bought additional land. The couple had 10 children, and some of their descendants live in Holladay.

The 56 acres of Meadows Farm is now divided into numerous plots and home to many exclusive properties.

Holladay is the second oldest and the longest continuously occupied city in Utah, and as such, the Holladay Historical Commission is working with Gina Chamness, Holladay City Manager, and council members to confirm a home for the cabin.

“It is suggested that the cabin be placed next to the Casto Home located in the back of City Hall,” Meadows said.

If you would like to learn more about the Meadows Cabin or about Holladay history, visit: https://sites.google.com/view/copy-of-cottonwood-holladay-hi/historical-commission?authuser=0.

The Commission is also interested in preserving and obtaining historical items of interest. If you would like to donate, please contact the Holladay Historical Commission.