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Show Sanpete s Pastoral Scenes, History, Charm (EDITOR'S NOTE - This is another in a series of articles on the six counties of southern and central Utah which make up the scenic region called Panoramaland. These articles are submitted by Panoramaland officials and are writen for Spotlight by Zell Gibbs). ByZellGlbbs Within the borders of Sanpete County one finds a very definite and distinctive ambiance that seems to pervade both people and topography. Peaceful, pastoral, and prosaic are words that best describe it The inhabitants of Sanpete County are a people devoted to their heritage; the preservation of its material memorabilia and spiritual values. There is a great diversity of ar-- chitecture in the older homes of Sanpete County. People are aware of their value and make very effort to preserve them. They are a most interesting feature of the rural atmosphere the residents hope to maintain. There is a strong message here that is transmitted inaudibly but clearly to a nation sorely in need of reassurance; a scenic sermon that says, "Life can be Beautiful". Interest and curiosity about life in the small towns of America are growing in direct ratio to the ever increasing stresses of metropolitan living, and the small towns of Sanpete County are a breath of fresh air to city dwellers. The Mormon Temple at Manti is an ethereal visual experience. It is situated high upon a hill, seeming, from a distance, almost to float amid the clouds and endless blue sky. It has, since its completion in 1888, been a landmark that can be seen from many miles in any direction. Each year on its sloping, well-tended lawns an epoch pageant called "The Mormon Mircale" is performed, and viewed enthusiastically by thousands. It portrays the establishment of the Mormon Church, and relates graphically the Book of Mormon story. This pageant continues through this Saturday. (Continued on Page 8) Sanpete's Pastoral Scenes, History, Charm (Continued from Page 1) In the Manti-LaSal Forests scenic Skyline Drive runs for a hundred miles along the crest of the mountains. This is probably one of the longest uninterrupted vistas of sheer pristine beauty to be seen anywhere in the world. The splendor and majesty of one's immediate surroundings at any point along this exquisitely scenic drive is vying constantly with the potpourri of beauty spread out mile upon mile below. In the fall it is unbelievably beautiful, and the white world of winter, viewed from the heights on snow-mobile or skis, is, quite literally, indescribably overwhelming. Several canyons leading to the mountains from Spring City, Manti, Mayfield and Ephraim provide easy access to one of natures most pristine and versatile areas. Cool, wooded picnic areas and campsites with facilites dot the canyons. Reservoirs, lakes, and streams offer excellent fishing and boating. The County Is a favorite region for fall hunting, and highly valued by winter sports en-thusaists for easy accessiblity, vast spaces, and uncrowded conditions. Another of Sanpete County's outstanding attractions is the Fairview Museum of History and Art, built at the turn of the century of native sandstone; all of the rock being hand dressed by old country stone masons. It contains a large, roofless solarium where tourists are invited to rest in a setting of flowering shrubs and trees, vines and waterfall. Dr. Avard Fairbanks, world re no wed r - sculptor, has loaned the Museum many originals of his works. The high ceilings of the building accommodate these massive and very famous creations beautifully. Murals painted by a famous local artist, Max Blaine, grace the walls and act as setting for special exhibits. Murals in the Indian room were painted by the late Amasa Tucker, another local artist. In the art section the life-time works of local artist, Lyndon Graham, are displayed. Five pieces, carved from wood, are replicas of world historic vehicles, executed with such authenticity of scale, structure and design as CUTOUT AND MAIL IN YOUR AD to be almost incredible. Two rock pieces, carved of crystalline alabaster, depict the Taj Mahal, and the balcony scene from Cinderella. These displays are very highly acclaimed, and of great public Interest. All in all, Sanpete is a thoroughly delightful place to live and to visit. If you are a visitor, take your time. The rewards are great. |