A few weeks ago, my siblings, my father and I traveled to Soda Springs, Idaho, to spend a weekend there. This charming small town has more than a geyser and bubbling springs where visitors can taste naturally carbonated water. It’s also where my dad was born and lived during the first few years of his life.

We took a trip back in time as we visited the ranch where my grandfather was a ranch manager and checked out a town museum, learning more about the area’s local history and that small part of the world our family came from. It was an enjoyable and fascinating experience.

Each community has its own local history. Right here in Utah County, we have many historical commissions and societies where many people have donated their time for years to gather, compile and publish historical stories, facts, dates and photos.

Spanish Fork’s Historic Preservation Commission holds a monthly lecture series. This past month, the lecture was about the city’s Pioneer Heritage Cemetery. This series is held in the Spanish Fork Library Heritage Room. What a great way to learn from experts about the past. For more information, check out the Spanish Fork Historic Preservation Commission Facebook page.

The Lehi Historical Society has a Veterans Collection section on its website. There, stories and biographies of Lehi citizens who served in the armed forces can be found. There is also information about the Lehi Historical Marker Program. Its purpose is to install 10-foot-tall historical markers around the city that will include information about what significant historic event occurred there.

“As Lehi grows, it is important to pass on the history, peoples, places and practices of those who went before us so that we can stay true to our roots,” it states on the society’s website. More information can be found at lehihistory.com.

Did you know that Pleasant Grove’s Historic Preservation Commission holds the Heritage Festival event every year? This year’s was held Sept. 9 and included spotlights of early settlers, butter churning, live bagpipe performances and fun.

This commission also offers a historic homes walking tour each year, which just wrapped up. The monthly walking tours, which are held during summer months, highlight some of the many historic homes in the city.

These are just some examples of ways our own local volunteers are working to preserve and educate us about local history. You could get involved. Check out your city’s website or social media pages to learn more about the commissions and how you can volunteer. Also, visit their pages often to learn more about those who came before us.