Payson, Utah County, mid-1850s
Relocated in 1981

When John Fairbanks and his wife Sarah were called to settle in Payson, they, like many early pioneers, first lived in their covered wagon, using a piece of carpet for the door and a small stove for warmth. They then built a log cabin and lived there while they built a two-story adobe home. It was common practice for pioneer families to add on to their houses, as more room was needed. The main portion of this home was built in front of the cabin sometime in the 1850’s, with the large kitchen and two wings in the back added some years later. John’s brother built a near-replica of the home that still stands in Payson. This unusually large house, with its ornamental detailing on the cornice, chimney caps, and fireplaces is representative of the upper middle class standing of the Fairbanks family.

John Fairbanks was a prominent member of Payson’s business community, holding interest in several local industries including: gristmills, sawmills, dairies, shoe stores, and the Provo Woolen Mills. He served as an LDS bishop (church leader) and spent much time caring for the needs of local Native Americans, who often pitched their tents in his yard.

The upper bedroom on the south side was called “Brigham Young’s room” because Young used the Fairbanks home as a headquarters while staying in Payson or on his way to visit southern communities.