BLM to Host Annual Jarvie Fest

Organization

Bureau of Land Management

Media Contact:

VERNAL, Utah—The Bureau of Land Management invites members of the public to the 2016 Jarvie Fest, a family friendly community event, to be held Oct. 8, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Daggett County's Brown's Park. 

The event is located on the historic property of old-time prominent entrepreneur John Jarvie. On the bank of the Green River, Jarvie's general store was the heartbeat of the community, and his dugout often served as a hiding place for some of the West's most notorious outlaws, harboring infamous criminals such as Butch Cassidy.  The property also includes Jarvie's log home, an early post office where he served as the town's postmaster, and a large stone building that accommodated his business ventures.

Festival participants will have the opportunity to engage in some of the same crafts as those early pioneers and outlaws, such as candle dipping, leather working, and rope making.  Musicians will provide a lively musical backdrop for horse rides, arts and crafts, and contests of skill.  This is a celebration of pioneer history where guests can experience firsthand homestead life in the 1800s.

The BLM will also provide information for opportunities to get involved.  There will be sign-ups for those interested in becoming members of the “Friends of Jarvie” volunteer group, dedicated to preserving the historic property.

The Ranch is located in Brown’s Park, Utah.  To get there from Vernal, travel north 55 miles on Highway 191.  Approximately two miles past the Wyoming state line, turn east 22 miles on gravel/paved road (including a steep hill) and follow the signs to Jarvie Ranch.  From Maybell, Colorado travel east on State Highway 318 over 70 miles of paved and 8 miles of gravel road, follow the signs to Jarvie Ranch.

For more information about the ranch or to download directions, maps, and a Junior Activity Book, please visit:

 http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/fo/vernal/recreation_/browns_park.html.    

For public hours of availability, please call (435)781-4400.

Persons who use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) may call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 1-800-877-8339 to leave a message or question at the above number.  The FIRS is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Replies are provided during normal business hours. 


The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.