3961 S 2200 W: Still Standing Strong: The 1907 Todd Family Farmhouse
The Charles O Todd House
Built in 1907 by Charles Orson Todd
Still standing today as a proud symbol of early settlement in the Granger-Hunter area, the Charles Orson Todd House is one of the few remaining farm homes from the turn of the 20th century in what is now West Valley City. Built in 1907 by Charles Orson Todd, the home reflects the Victorian Eclectic style with a central block form and projecting bays. It was constructed using red brick laid on a solid hand-cut stone foundation, topped with a truncated hip roof now covered in asphalt shingles.
The home’s original wooden double front doors—hand-carved by Charles—remain intact, complete with their original antique doorknobs, a rare preservation of early craftsmanship. The interior still features the original woodwork, including moldings, baseboards, and solid doors from 1907. In 1911, a wooden-frame kitchen addition was built on the south side of the home to better accommodate the growing Todd family and their active farm life.
An Original Farmstead
The property originally served as a working farm and homestead, reflecting the agricultural roots of the Granger area. Surrounding the house are several historic outbuildings that supported daily life and labor: an ancillary barn, granary, milk house, pig pen, and shed. The old buggy shed, still standing behind the home, retains its original slated wood walls.
A small carriage shed was later converted into a residence for Ann’s father, Joseph Hyrum Moesser, with wallpaper and tile still partially visible today—a touching example of multigenerational pioneer care.
Historic Water Source
Of special note is the original Todd family well, drilled by Ray Palmer at Charles Todd’s request. This well became a critical water source for neighboring families before municipal services reached the area. Many early residents recall walking or driving to the Todd property to fill barrels or buckets with fresh water.
The irrigation ditch, dug by Charles Todd and a neighbor by hand, still runs along the property, a living reminder of early water efforts that shaped the west side's ability to farm and thrive.
Continuity of Family Stewardship
The home has remained in the Todd family for over a century. Charles and his wife Martha Mae Moesser Todd were the original owners, followed by their son Edgar Todd and his wife Cecilia Fuegi Todd. Today, Edgar and Cecilia Todd continue to live in and care for the property, preserving its heritage and stories for future generations.
A Treasure in West Valley
The Charles Orson Todd House is not just an architectural artifact—it is a living connection to West Valley’s agrarian roots, a reminder of the families who built their homes by hand, raised livestock, grew food, and contributed to the foundations of a community that would become Utah’s second largest city.
It is a true historical gem, nestled in a rapidly modernizing landscape, representing endurance, craftsmanship, and the pioneer spirit.
Charles O Todd
Martha Moesser Todd
Picture taken in 1918
When the Flu Came Home: The Loss of Charles Todd in 1919
..Charles Todd was known for his tireless work ethic and dedication to both his family and community. He entered the demanding sheep business, which required him to be away from home for extended periods—often months at a time—guiding and tending his flocks through difficult terrain and harsh weather, including the depths of winter. Such labor left him vulnerable to illness, and he suffered from pneumonia on multiple occasions. During his mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he also contracted typhoid fever, further weakening his health. Despite these hardships, Charles never wavered in his responsibilities.
In 1907 Charles had saved enough money to build his family a wonderful home and they started farming , . Sadly, during the devastating global outbreak of the Spanish Flu, Charles contracted pneumonia once more and passed away on January 19, 1919, at the age of 43. His legacy is one of sacrifice, perseverance, and deep devotion to both his faith and his family.
