St. George in Washington County, Utah — The American Mountains (Southwest)
Erastus Snow's Big House
Photographed By Bill Kirchner, August 28, 2012
1. Erastus Snow's Big House Marker
On this site in 1867, Erastus Snow began construction on a four-story, adobe home which later became known as the "Big House." Snow, an LDS apostle, was the presiding Mormon leader during the colonization of St. George. The "Big House" was an uncommonly large dwelling which served as lodging for many of the guests which visited early St. George. The structure had three stories and a basement, the southern expose of which was level with the ground. A balcony supported by pillars was attached to the west of the home and a low, rock wall overlayed with red sandstone bordered the sidewalk in from (where you are now standing). Though not extravagant or ornate, it was a comfortable, livable home that typified the style of many early St. George residences. Shortly after it was completed, Snow's wife Elizabeth (Libby) managed the "Big House" as a guest home for weary travelers. Nearly 80 visitors sat down to dinner here to celebrate Erastus' 50th birthday in 1868. Beginning in 1888, Snow's son Mahonri managed the "Big House" as a first class hotel for 25 years. In 1913, it was sold to Samuel Judd who continued the service but changed the
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St. George owes much of its establishment, growth and progress to Erastus Snow, whom people looked to for council and advice during his 27 years here. His "Big House" was known as the executive mansion of the Southern Utah Mission. It stood as a fine example of the craftsmanship and dedication of the early southern Utah pioneers.
Erected by Cotton Mission Chapter, Sons of Utah Pioneers with generous support of the Erastus Snow descendants.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Churches & Religion. In addition, it is included in the Sons of Utah Pioneers series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1867.
Location. 37° 6.564′ N, 113° 34.989′ W. Marker is in St. George, Utah, in Washington County. Marker is at the intersection of North Main Street and St. George Boulevard, on the right when traveling north on North Main Street. Marker is on the southeast corner. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Saint George UT 84770, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Woodward School (here, next to this marker); St. George Temple (here, next to this marker); Gardeners’ Club Hall (a few steps from this marker); Dixie Academy (a few steps from this marker); St. George Tabernacle
Photographed By Bill Kirchner, August 28, 2012
2. Erastus Snow's Big House Marker
Also see . . . Washington County Historical Society. In 1887, Erastus Snow began construction on a four-story, adobe home which later became known as the "Big House." The "Big House" was an uncommonly large dwelling which served as lodging for many of the guests which visited early St. George. (Submitted on September 7, 2012, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona.)
Credits. This page was last revised on December 6, 2020. It was originally submitted on September 6, 2012, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona. This page has been viewed 602 times since then and 58 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 6, 2012, by Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.
