SALT LAKE CITY – On Sunday, Utah proudly marked the 130th anniversary of its statehood, celebrating a long and arduous journey that spanned nearly five decades and involved seven attempts before it officially became the 45th state of the United States on January 4, 1896. This milestone not only signifies Utah's entry into the union but also highlights the persistent struggle for recognition and acceptance faced by its early settlers. Local historian Ron Fox emphasized the significance of this anniversary, describing it as a testament to the determination and resilience of Utah's pioneers. "We became a state back on January 4, 1896, with the transfer of power from the federal government occurring just two days later on January 6. The journey was a long battle that began in 1849 and took seven tries before we achieved statehood," Fox explained. This arduous path involved extensive negotiations with Washington, the adoption of a new name for the state, and the elimination of certain practices that were seen as barriers to statehood. The push for Utah's statehood was fraught with challenges, including opposition from various political factions concerned about the territory's governance, the Mormon Church's influence, and issues related to polygamy. It was not until 1893 that a significant breakthrough occurred when a representative in Congress managed to pass a bill advocating for Utah's statehood. This bill was subsequently signed into law by President Grover Cleveland, who later took additional time to draft the proclamation that would officially declare Utah a state. When the news of statehood reached Salt Lake City, the reaction was one of exuberant celebration. "The man who ran the telegraph office at the corner of 100 South and Main Street ran out into the street with a shotgun and fired it off in jubilation," Fox recalled. "It was quite a celebration. One account described it as pandemonium in the streets. The joy was palpable after such a long struggle, and the people of this state had participated wholeheartedly in that journey." Reflecting on the importance of this anniversary, Utah's Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson shared a historical photograph from the celebrations of 1896, expressing gratitude for the rich heritage and natural beauty of the state. Governor Spencer Cox also acknowledged the significance of the day, stating in a congratulatory post, "Utah was built by people who show up, solve problems, and keep building, especially when it's hard." This sentiment captures the spirit of the Utahns who contributed to the state's development over the years. Interestingly, the original proposal for the state's name was not Utah. The early settlers sought to name the new state 'Deseret,' which means "honeybee" in the Book of Mormon. However, after multiple constitutional conventions and discussions, the name 'Utah' was ultimately adopted as a tribute to the native Ute tribe. This name change reflected a compromise that helped pave the way for statehood. Utah's first governor, Heber Wells, was inaugurated in 1896, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the state's governance. Fox recalled the centennial celebration in 1996, which featured a dramatic re-enactment in the Tabernacle, showcasing the rich history of the state and its people. As Utah approaches its sesquicentennial celebration in January 2046, the legacy of perseverance and community spirit that characterized the journey to statehood continues to resonate with residents today. As Utahns reflect on this significant anniversary, it is essential to remember the struggles and triumphs that shaped the state. The 130-year journey is a reminder of the dedication of those who fought for recognition and the ongoing commitment to the ideals of democracy and governance that define the state. The anniversary serves not only as a celebration of the past but also as an inspiration for future generations to continue working towards a prosperous and inclusive future for all Utahns.