| Escalante and the surrounding area of southern Utah is one of the last frontiers to be explored in the continental United States. |
| 1776 |
Two Spanish priests led an exploration party through Utah en route from Santa Fe to California, looking for a passable trail to Los Angeles. |
| 1866 |
While a group of cavalry men were in pusuit of Indians during the Black Hawk war, they took note of this valley. |
| 1875 |
A company of men from Panguitch, Utah, explored this area naming it "Potato Valley." |
| 1876 |
Mormon pioneers settled here because of the mild climate, extensive grazing for cattle and sheep, and the abundance of mineral and timber. |
July 4, 1876 |
Because no American flag was available, the small group of pioneers raised a striped Navajo blanket amid much shouting and fanfare and offically named the town for Fray Silvestre Velez De Escalante, one of the Spanish priests who first explored the valley. |
| 1933 |
Civilian Conservation Corps built a road and a bridge over some incredible terrain called Hell's Backbone, linking the towns of Escalante and Boulder. Although modern highways have since been built, Hell's Backbone remains an exciting and scenic drive. |
1996 |
Population 850; President Clinton declares Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. |
2000 |
Population 956, |
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Today, Escalante is a western town surrounded by clean air, intriguing landscape, wildlife and archeology. Although it offers modern accommodations, it still has the quiet charm and warm hospitality that can only be found in a small community.
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