Thursday, October 10, 2013

Ruth's Diner-Emigration Canyon, Utah

David writes.....


Emigration Canyon is one of the several canyons that provide access to the Salt Lake Valley from the Wasatch Front. It is so named because Brigham Young allegedly declared "This is the Place" at the mouth of the canyon, thus starting settlement of the Salt Lake Valley.  The scene is depicted in a mural at the Union Pacific depot in downtown Salt Lake City.  The road through Emigration Canyon is actually very narrow and curvy.  Even as early as the 1850s this route into the valley was replaced by the road built up Parley's Canyon, which is the route taken by I-80.  It is how one gets up to Park City.












Tucked up in Emigration Canyon is Ruth's Diner.  Our editor Randy sent me on assignment to Ruth's as he had heard that it was made out of an old Salt Lake & Utah interurban body.  My investigation revealed this is not the case, but the diner still has a strong traction connection. Ruth's is built partially out of a Utah Light and Power company streetcar.  It appears to be one of the series built by American Car Company in 1914.  The body has been modified greatly, and only portions remain.





I sat in the car and had a wonderful roast beef dinner.  I understand Ruth's has an excellent breakfast as well, so we will return.

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