This year marks the 165th since our city was founded and I can’t imagine a better time to have unveiled our very own Dowdle puzzle! These puzzles, created by local artist Eric Dowdle, are beloved keepsakes for communities all across the country. At the unveiling I placed a piece of the puzzle in the brand new public art mural at Heritage Park, and it fills me with immense pride to have been a part of the creation of this testament to South Jordan’s rich history and bright future. This puzzle captures the spirit of our community, highlighting the milestones and heritage that define us. The beautiful mural is located between the Community Center and Heritage Park Splash Pad, I hope you’ll stop by and check it out.
From humble beginnings rooted in hillside dugouts carved by pioneering settlers, to the thriving, dynamic city we are today, South Jordan’s journey is one of resilience and growth. The puzzle weaves together these elements. There are also several community members depicted in the art, representing a few of the many, past and present, who have dedicated their efforts to shaping our city.
The Dowdle puzzle beautifully captures iconic elements of our city, from the bustling streets of our annual SoJo Summerfest to the serene beauty of the Jordan River. It honors the victims of the 1938 bus accident, which changed bus laws across America after we lost 25 students and the driver in that tragic accident. It also pays tribute to the industrious spirit of our early farmers, and the enduring legacy of several multi-generational South Jordan families, including the Jones family, who raised buffalo in the community for nearly half a century.
This puzzle also shows the progress and development that continue to shape South Jordan; from Mulligans to Bingham Creek, and Glenmoor to the bustling Daybreak development, with Oquirrh Lake and soon-to-be minor league baseball. It highlights our three temples, the newly annexed foothills of the Oquirrh Mountains, and our Home of the Miners, Bingham High School, which has been a beacon in our community since 1908.
This artistic effort beautifully illustrates so much about why we love living in one of the best cities in America. They are available to purchase for just $20 (plus tax). I would invite you to collect a piece of South Jordan’s history by picking up your own copy of the Dowdle puzzle, available at South Jordan City Hall during our regular hours.
