Huntsville Monument
This monument stands in remembrance of the dedicated and hard working men and women
who settled the town of Huntsville and its surrounding area.
The early settlers arrived in 1860 with a determination to conquer the harsh elements of a
high mountain climate to establish a community. With the challenges of late springs, early
frosts and the hostilities of the Indians, they put their shoulders to the plow and turned the hills
and meadows into productive fields of grain, alfalfa, pastures, orchards and gardens. A few
head of cattle grew to herds of cows and dairy farming took root and helped establish a sense
of permanence.
The needs of a growing community mixed with hopes, dreams and opportunity attracted
many courageous men and women who helped build Huntsville. Sawmills and gristmills were
built and irrigation companies formed. Masons, carpenters, merchants, butchers, blacksmiths,
shepherds, clog makers, tinsmiths, shoemakers, basket makers, midwives, wagon makers,
mechanics, school teachers and others all contributed to develop a community that was diverse
in its elements, yet unified as a whole.
Huntsville remained a farming community until the needs and demands of World War II
brought new opportunities and changes.
Today, we honor these men and women whose names are inscribed here. We remember
their sacrifices and hard work to establish the seeds of all we now harvest and enjoy in this
beautiful place we call home.
