Faith, Farms, and Foundations: 1847 to Today
Granger Ward Marks 100 Years (1884–1984)
In 1984, members, former members, and friends of the Granger Ward gathered to celebrate a century of faith, community, and perseverance. The ward, now known as Granger 1st Ward, had its beginnings on February 24, 1884, when Daniel McRae was called as the first bishop, with Abram Sorensen and John H. Bawden as counselors.
The name Granger, meaning “farmhouse” or “association of farmers,” was chosen by Judge Elias Smith to reflect the strong agricultural roots of the area. At that time, ward boundaries stretched from the Jordan River west to 4800 West. All land west of the river was known as “Over Jordan,” and as population grew, new wards were created from the original West Jordan and Brighton wards, eventually giving rise to Granger.
Early services were held in a small frame schoolhouse at the site of Monroe School. By March 1884, land was purchased for $50 on the corner of 3200 West and 3500 South, and a new meetinghouse began construction. It took 11 years to complete. Bricks were fired in a local kiln, and the building was finally dedicated on November 17, 1895, by Abram H. Cannon.
Lighting came first from coal oil lamps, then from an acetylene tank installed in 1903 beneath the raised platform where the pulpit stood—a choice that would later prove fateful.
On the evening of March 7, 1905, tragedy struck during an MIA meeting. Nellie Mackay, a young organist, was singing a solo when a sudden explosion from the acetylene tank tore through the chapel, lifting the floor and roof. Nellie was killed instantly when the organ collapsed on her. Many others were injured, and the community was devastated. Yet, in their grief, members immediately began rebuilding. The new chapel was dedicated in February 1906 by LDS Church President Joseph F. Smith.
Growth in Granger was rapid. By 1930, the ward had about 1,000 members, and in 1943 the ward was divided to form Granger 2nd Ward. In 1951, continued growth required another division, creating Granger 3rd Ward. Over the years, the ward was led by many bishops, beginning with Bishop McRae—who had crossed the plains as a child and served faithfully for 30 years—and continuing through leaders such as Jesse V. Ecton, Rolf Magnusson, Ronald Bateman, and Ronald Hagen.
The ward also became well known for its scouting program. Troop 97 had been continuously chartered for more than 62 years by 1984, with Cub packs active for nearly three decades.
The centennial celebration in 1984 was filled with joy and remembrance. An open house was held with refreshments, antiques, and historic photographs. That evening, a Centennial Ball featured music by the Melodiers, with Byron MacKay as master of ceremonies and entertainment by a local quartet.
The centennial marked not only 100 years of ward history but also a century of community resilience, faith, and togetherness in Granger—qualities that continue to shape West Valley City today.
Looking Ahead
In just nine years, in the year 2034, the Granger Ward will mark an even greater milestone—its 150th anniversary. Plans will undoubtedly be made to honor not only the pioneers who laid the foundation in 1884, but also the many generations who have carried the legacy forward. The sesquicentennial celebration will be an opportunity to reflect on 150 years of faith, growth, and community in the heart of Granger.
Laying the Foundation: 1847–1884: A Time of Organization and Growth
The years 1847 to 1884 were a period of steady organization and growth in the Salt Lake Valley, especially in the areas west of the Jordan River that would later become Granger and Hunter. What began with a few families building dugouts and cabins in the late 1840s slowly took shape into organized wards, schools, farms, and a thriving community.
For our Granger/Hunter area, it took 37 years from the arrival of the first settlers in 1847 until the day the Granger Ward was officially organized in 1884. Those decades were filled with hard work, sacrifice, and faith as pioneers cleared land, built homes, established congregations, and raised families.
By the time the Granger Ward was formed under Bishop Daniel McRae, the foundation of a lasting community had been laid—one that would continue to grow and flourish for generations.
The Granger Ward
The Granger Ward Artist: Harlan Bangerter
