A Day to Remember: The 1981 Hillsdale Hoedown
Remembering the 1981 Hillsdale Hoedown: A Pioneer Day to Remember
In the heart of Granger, back when West Valley City was still in its infancy, the community came together for one of its most beloved traditions—the annual Hillsdale Hoedown, held on Pioneer Day, July 24, 1981.
That summer marked the 8th year of the Hillsdale Hoedown, and anticipation was sky-high. More than 7,000 people were expected to gather at Hillsdale Park, ready to celebrate their pioneer heritage with laughter, friendly competition, and old-fashioned community spirit.
The day kicked off at noon, as children and families filled the park, lured by carnival rides, games, and the comforting smell of grilled hamburgers, corndogs, and French fries. Snow cones melted in sticky hands, pop fizzed in paper cups, and tables of homemade baked goods stood ready for sweet-toothed supporters.
One of the day’s highlights was the horseshoe pitching contest, beginning at 2:00 p.m., with divisions for men’s singles, doubles, and youth. Participants paid a $1 entry fee and competed for trophies awarded to first and second place finishers.
Classic Pioneer Day races also brought laughter and competition: sack races, three-legged races, and other field games captured the energy and excitement of the afternoon.
The beloved Friendship Quilt Auction took place at 8:00 p.m., featuring a special quilt made by the Relief Society that included the names of every member of the Granger 7th Ward. Other handmade quilts were also auctioned off, drawing bids from neighbors and friends eager to take home a piece of local love and craftsmanship.
As night fell, the excitement reached its peak with a 45-minute fireworks display—the most impressive the Hoedown had ever seen. Mayor Hank Price of West Valley City and the Granger Rotary Club helped sponsor the show, making possible a stunning array of imported fireworks shells. “It’ll be the best display we’ve ever had,” promised Bishop Lloyd Layton, who served as both bishop of the 7th Ward and chairman of the event. “The finale will include the American flag and some other surprises we’ve never done before.”
The 1981 Hoedown committee included many dedicated community members: Wes Dunn, Bill Marshall, Paul Olson, Lloyd Wright, Errol Jackson, Steve Illgueth, Winnie Fiack, Julie Mulford, Vernon Miller, Carolyn Butterfield, and Olaf Potts. Their efforts helped fund the 7th Ward budget and, more importantly, strengthened bonds of friendship and faith.
For those who were there, the 1981 Hillsdale Hoedown wasn’t just a summer celebration—it was a vivid reminder of what made the Granger community so special: hard work, shared values, and joy in coming together.
