Album: Lonely Dell Ranch at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

In 1871, John D. and Emma Lee first began agricultural and ferrying operations in what is now the Lees Ferry and Lonely Dell Ranch National Historic District. The District is identified as a cultural landscape, significant for its association with Mormon settlement and with exploration and development of the Colorado Plateau. The expansion of the Church of Latter Day Saints beyond the Great Salt Lake Basin was pivotal to the consolidation of Mormon economic and political power and enabled the Mormons to withstand attack by non-Mormons. The isolated Lees Ferry crossing played a role in this development. The historic vernacular landscape also serves as an example of pioneer settlement in the region, representative of the way the land was used and shaped to overcome hardships. Generations of residents found ways to support agriculture and make the environment habitable. The National Park Service gained ownership in 1974, ending a century of continuous residential occupation. Preservation efforts have helps recreate the historic appearance of many features, including building renovations and garden and orchard maintenance.