Rich County Sesquiscentennial
The sesquicentennial celebration marked Randolph's 150th anniversary since its founding, signifying a significant milestone in our shared history. This occasion provided a wonderful opportunity for reflection, allowing us to delve into our cultural heritage and celebrate our collective achievements.
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I felt privileged to contribute to the celebration as a member of the committee. My responsibilities included organizing and promoting the historical building and cemetery tours, coordinating a Native American cultural celebration, and managing the Facebook page, which enabled people to participate even during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
HISTORIC BUILDING TOUR
The historic building tour offered a captivating journey through Randolph's past, attracting hundreds of visitors eager to explore its sites and rich history. From grand landmarks like the Randolph Tabernacle to hidden gems like the Moe Jackson Barn, participants immersed themselves in the lives of significant landmarks and the stories embedded in the area's history. It was an educational and engaging experience that brought the community's history to life.
HISTORIC CEMETERY TOUR
The cemetery tour offered a captivating journey through the grounds of Randolph Cemetery, where every gravestone held a story. As attendees wandered among the weathered markers, they discovered the rich tapestry of lives that had left their mark on local, national, and even international history. From towering monuments adorned with intricate carvings to humble headstones bearing names long forgotten, each memorial whispered tales of triumph, tragedy, and enduring legacies. Below, I've provided a glimpse into a few of the remarkable individuals featured on the tour.
Kib Jacobsen, born in 1923, proudly served as a member of the Marines. His headstone bears emblems of a globe, eagle, and anchor, each carrying symbolic significance. The globe symbolizes a readiness to serve anywhere in the world, the eagle represents the United States, and the anchor acknowledges the Marines' naval tradition and their joint service with the Navy. Together, these emblems embody a commitment to defend our nation across air, land, and sea. Kib was laid to rest in Okinawa, Japan, where he tragically lost his life in combat due to an explosion. Between his birth and death dates, three stacked arrow symbols denote his Corporal rank.
Samuel Brough, an immigrant brick mason, established his business in Randolph upon arriving in 1870. The 180,000 bricks used for the Randolph tabernacle were exclusively sourced from his brickyard. He passed away in 1911, leaving behind a legacy of faith and dedication immortalized in a marble headstone atop a brick base. The emblem "Faith in Every Footstep," awarded to pioneers predating the completion of the railroad, adorns the bottom right. Carved atop his headstone is a dove with an olive branch, symbolizing purity, peace, and the Holy Ghost. The fleur-de-lis emblem, representing the godhead, is intricately chiseled, signifying Samuel's steadfast faith. His sacrifices have contributed to the beauty of our community's foundational landmarks.
James Brown was the first person to be buried in the Randolph cemetery in early September 1871. His headstone, fashioned from upright gray steeled marble, stands atop a rugged rock base adorned with natural growth along its lower edge. A distinctive diamond pattern, characteristic of the Art Deco architectural style, embellishes the base. Among the flora depicted, an evening primrose symbolizes enduring themes of love, memory, youth, hope, and sadness. Delicate fern leaves, emblematic of humility, frankness, and sincerity, add a poignant touch. Unfortunately, an imperfect repair has obscured the name of James's son beneath his own, a testament to the imperfections of time and maintenance.
Situated in the original section of the cemetery are five unmarked brick headstones. During the pioneer settlement era, diphtheria, dubbed the "Strangling Angel of Children," claimed over 700 lives in Utah. Among its victims were five children from the Cornelius Evans family, hastily buried due to the urgency of the situation. It seems these simple headstones were crafted by hand using materials readily available from the local brickyard, with time gradually erasing the inscriptions. Further research uncovered a total of 11 tragedies within the Evans family, many of which were unmarked. In remembrance, a new monument was erected on May 20, 2021, with the site rededicated on May 31, 2021.
Honoring Native American
Heritage
As Randolph celebrated its anniversary, I felt it was important to honor the Native American communities who have cherished and shaped this land for generations.
Through a Native American dance ceremony, we embraced their beautiful culture and heritage, recognizing their profound connection to this land and their significance in our shared history.
Their presence served as a poignant reminder of the diverse heritage and rich tapestry of experiences that have influenced Randolph and its surroundings.