Brigham City Water System

Brigham City Water System Municipal Water Report Info

On September 27, 1847, Perrigrine Sessions and his family established the first settlement approximately nine miles north of the newly founded Mormon community of Salt Lake City. Sessions constructed a primitive shelter with animal skins for roofing and remained the area's sole inhabitants until spring 1848. This rudimentary dwelling was located near what is now 250 North and 280 West.

As the founder of Utah's second settlement, Sessions became the first European settler in present-day Davis County. Initially called Sessions' Settlement, the area was later ecclesiastically designated North Canyon Ward, with both names used interchangeably until 1855 when it was officially named Bountiful – a fitting description for what was already considered Utah's garden region.

The townsite, surveyed by Jesse W. Fox, was eventually enclosed by a defensive wall against potential Native American conflicts. Constructed in 1855, this impressive earthwork stretched approximately three miles, standing eight feet high on the exterior and four feet thick at the crown – a remarkable engineering feat for the era. Residents were assessed construction costs based on their financial capacity, with one individual contributing $1,100.

By 1890, East Bountiful residents determined they needed more structured governance than county administration could provide. They petitioned the Territorial Legislature and received a charter to establish a city corporation in 1892. Joseph L. Holbrook was elected the first Mayor, with Edwin Pace, Thomas Briggs, Steams Hatch, J.L. Fackrell, and Arthur Riley serving as Councilmen. Joseph T. Mabey became City Marshall, R.E. Egan the City Recorder, and Jed Stringham the Treasurer.

Throughout its history, the City has met every obligation placed upon it. Its officials have demonstrated integrity, foresight, and meticulous attention to public service, with no evidence of corruption or incompetence. Public service has been viewed as an honor rather than a source of compensation.

During this period, primary schools were established, and middle and high schools were constructed. Streets were cleared of debris, mud surfaces were replaced with oil treatments, and sidewalks were installed. A water system initiated in 1906 has continuously expanded, now directing most mountain stream water into city reservoirs, complemented by rights acquired from well owners and water from the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District.