A group called "Research Wright Subdivision" started to build in 1957

Research Wright Subdivision: Estel & Leah Wright’s Lasting Legacy

Between 1957 and 1959, the Wright Subdivision (Additions 4 and 5) began to take shape, marking one of the final waves of postwar housing development in the Granger area.

At the center of this progress was Estel L. Wright, a man remembered as perhaps the single most influential figure in shaping the suburban growth of Granger and Hunter.

Born and raised on a farm in Oregon, Estel moved to Granger in 1943 with his wife Leah. Over the next two decades, he would transform farmland into neighborhoods and provide the infrastructure that allowed families to settle and thrive.

Wright’s professional influence was wide-reaching. He served as Vice President of American Savings and Loan in 1957, after managing the company’s office in Hawaii for two years. He was also President of American Housing Corporation, a position that allowed him to oversee major subdivision projects, opening up land for hundreds of new homes. At the same time, he led the American Insurance and Investment Company.

Beyond business, Estel was instrumental in public service. He played a leading role in securing the crucial 1955 water line extension for Granger and Hunter, and later served as a Director of the Salt Lake County Conservancy District and as a Trustee of the Granger-Hunter Improvement District. His work ensured reliable water for both new and long-standing residents.

Estel also gave deeply to his church and community. He held leadership roles in the Granger LDS Ward, while his wife Leah Wright taught business at Granite High School and managed Wright Realty, further advancing the couple’s contributions to local growth.

Known for his wide curiosity and adventurous spirit, Estel was an avid traveler, often visiting Mexico to explore ancient archaeological sites.

By the late 1950s, much of Granger had already been parceled into subdivisions, but the last large area to be developed—south of 3500 South—was carried out under Estel’s leadership.

Those who knew the history of Granger often said:

“No man has been more instrumental in the growth of the Granger-Hunter area.”

Through their combined work in housing, real estate, education, and civic service, Estel and Leah Wright left an enduring mark on the land and community of Granger