Jonesdale: A Slice of Early Ranch-Style Living Along 3500 South
Jonesdale: A Quiet Corner of Early Ranch-Style Heritage Along 3500 South
Located along the south side of 3500 South, between 5600 West and 5750 West, Jonesdale is a modest subdivision with a unique place in West Valley City's mid-20th century residential history. Divided into thirty-six lots, it had just four homes constructed before 1958, marking it as one of the later developing neighborhoods compared to its contemporaries.
The earliest homes in Jonesdale were built between 1950 and 1956, embodying the classic early ranch-style architecture that was popular during this period. These residences share a common aesthetic — sturdy brick construction complemented by carports, a hallmark feature of the era. Over the years, many of these original carports have been enclosed or converted into garages or additional living spaces, reflecting the evolving needs and tastes of residents.
While these four homes stand as a testament to Jonesdale’s roots, the neighborhood has grown considerably with numerous modern houses constructed after 1958. This blend of old and new gives Jonesdale a layered character, connecting the community’s early beginnings with its ongoing development.
Though Jonesdale may not have the dense historic fabric of some other West Valley subdivisions, its early homes offer a glimpse into post-war suburban expansion and the quiet charm of ranch-style living that helped shape the area’s residential identity.
In 1962 Growth in Hunter (West Valley City)
In the early 1960s, the Valley Center Building Company of Hunter, operated by E. Verne Breeze and Clarence Lowder, was at the forefront of neighborhood growth. They developed about 40 new brick and block homes, priced between $13,700 and $18,500—a solid investment for young families of the time.
The new subdivisions included:
Harmony Lane – 3700 South & 4000 West (10 homes)
Jonesdale – 3550 South & 5650 West (4 homes)
Western Acres – 3650 South & 3900 West (10 homes)
Fairlane Heights – 4100 West & 4300 South (10 homes)
These subdivisions mark an important chapter in the area’s transformation from farmland into thriving residential neighborhoods