Park Foundation inks plan to preserve Mormon Row

The Grand Teton National Park Foundation has adopted a strategy to preserve the last 1-acre in-holding on the Mormon Row Historic District. The plan would ultimately transfer the property to Grand Teton National Park.

The property, known as the Moulton Ranch Cabins, was listed for sale last June by Iola and Hal Blake, who are descendants of T.A. Moulton, one of the original pioneers to homestead the area.

Under Teton County, Wyoming zoning regulations, a private purchaser could have redeveloped the inholding and build up to 10,000 square feet of new construction that might not have been compatible with the area.

A private philanthropist approached the foundation to pursue purchase of the property.

“What a wonderful phone call to receive,” Grand Teton National Park Foundation President Leslie Mattson said. “There are many benefits of this property becoming part of the park. We are proud to help keep the Mormon Row Historic District intact and further the conservation of Grand Teton National Park. The Foundation is focused on protecting park resources and finding solutions that further Grand Teton’s scenic, wildlife, and historic values. This is a great resolution for a key inholding and builds on the success of Antelope Flats.”

The Blake family said the agreement would secure their family’s legacy.

Once the sale is complete by the end of the year, the property will be transferred to the park. Existing lodging facilities will be utilized for seasonal employee housing.

“The opportunity to preserve an important part of the Mormon Row Historic District is incredible and helps to achieve our conservation, cultural, and historic resource stewardship responsibilities,” Grand Teton National Park Superintendent David Vela said. “It will allow the historic district to stay intact and will provide protection of the facilities through much-needed seasonal workforce housing and increased presence at the site. My deepest gratitude to all involved for maintaining this legacy in Grand Teton National Park.”