A pioneer fireside called, “Our Pioneer and Pioneering Merchants,” will be on July 21, at 7 p.m. at the North Rexburg Stake Center. Doug Ladle, from the local chapter of The Sons of Utah Pioneers in the Upper Snake River Valley, said they’ll explore the reason why Main St. is so prosperous.
The Sons of Utah Pioneers is a national organization that focuses on the heritage of pioneers and their movement out West. There are many local chapters in the western states.
“We’re primarily a local group of like-minded individuals who love to hear about our heritage and learn about it,” he said.
If people are interested in joining the organization, they can contact Ladle or visit https://www.sup1847.com/chapter-list for more information.
The local chapter expects to have between 300-400 people attend the event this year. They have been pleased to see the number of people attending each year increase.
Lewis Clements will be speaking about the history of Rexburg, and Clair Thueson will be talking about his roots in the community and the hard work it took to keep a business thriving.
Ladle recalls different businesses down Main St. that he remembers going to as a boy. His favorite part of the program is seeing pictures of Rexburg from years ago. He loves hearing success stories of different individuals within the town.
“I think about often how Rexburg is transitioning to a vibrant community….I’m thinking we need to learn what the heritage was so we can appreciate what we’ve built upon,” he said.
Ladle looks forward to seeing people come out to the fireside.