1847-1960 Granger: A Story of Remarkable Growth
Granger’s history is a story of courage, determination, and hard work — a testament to the people who sacrificed and persevered to build a beautiful, thriving community. Today, it is often said that Granger once stood among the fastest-growing areas in the United States.
Change has always been the hallmark of Granger.
What began as a dry, barren desert was transformed by early settlers into fields of golden grain, lush green meadows, vibrant gardens, and stately orchards. This spirit of transformation never ceased. Over time, Granger continued to evolve — keeping pace with a changing world. Beautiful homes, new subdivisions, light industry, and busy shopping centers soon dotted the landscape, blending progress with the area’s natural beauty.
Yet at its heart, the story of Granger has always been about its people.
Early settlers once faced the formidable task of taming the wilderness; today's residents work to build schools, churches, parks, and recreation centers for a rapidly growing population — which had already reached around 25,000 by the time of this writing.
Industry first found its way to Granger after road improvements made the once long and difficult trip into neighboring towns much easier. One of the first businesses to serve the community was an adobe general store built by William Monroe in the late 19th century, near 3200 West on old 3300 South. Monroe also faithfully delivered mail to Granger residents for 13 years with a horse-drawn cart, bridging the distance between 900 South and 3300 South.
As time went on, new businesses and industries followed — including mills, railroads, blacksmith shops, and additional stores — laying the foundation for a vibrant community economy.
Among Granger’s earliest and most enduring businesses were:
Granger Market, at 2000 West 3500 South, owned by George Anast. Known as Granger’s oldest businessman, George inherited the market and service station from his father, Chris Anast, who built them in 1917. Over time, George expanded the family businesses, stretching their reach along 3500 South.
Fairbourne Corner, located at 3200 West 3500 South, still operated by descendants of Joseph Fairbourne, who built the first blacksmith shop there around 1883. Over the decades, the corner saw many uses, including serving as the location for Granger’s first post office, then known as Calder Station. Today, while much has changed, the Fairbourne legacy remains an integral part of Granger’s story.
By the 1980s, Granger’s business scene was booming.
Home construction dominated the area, alongside more than 200 businesses of all sizes. Four major shopping centers anchored the local economy, supplemented by a dairy, countless service providers, and — soon to rise against the skyline — a $10 million shopping mall at 4000 West 3500 South, a landmark project reflecting Granger’s soaring ambitions.
Granger's amenities had expanded rapidly as well, including:
Three banks
A post office
Public utility offices
A fire station
A sheriff’s substation
A hospital and a convalescent home
Numerous churches and community parks
Schools operated by the Granite School District: one high school, three junior highs, and seven elementary schools
Supporting this tremendous growth was the Granger-Hunter Improvement District, established in 1955 to administer water and sewer services. The pace of expansion could easily be seen in district records, with 865 new residential connections in 1963, 918 in 1964, and a staggering 1,800 anticipated soon after.
From barren desert to thriving community, Granger’s journey is a powerful reminder of what determination and community spirit can build — and how growth, when guided by heart and vision, can transform a place into a beloved home for thousands.