Timeline of Greeks in Utah

Discover the rich tapestry of Utah's history as we delve into the fascinating chapter of the arrival of Greeks in the Beehive State. Dating back to the late 19th century, Greek immigrants embarked on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on Utah's cultural landscape. Fleeing economic hardships in their homeland, these resilient pioneers brought with them a rich heritage of traditions, cuisine, and a strong sense of community. From the establishment of vibrant Greek neighborhoods to the iconic Greek Orthodox churches that grace the skyline, Utah's Greek community has woven a thread into the fabric of the state's diverse history. Join us on a journey through time as we explore the enduring contributions and enduring legacy of the Greek pioneers who made Utah their home.

  • May 1, 1900 - Scofield Coal Mine explosion 

  • 1904 - Union Pacific Railroad accident 

  • October 29, 1905 - Founding of SLC’s First Greek Orthodox Church Community

  • 1920’s - 14 Utah Greek serviceman/parishoners killed in WWI 

  • March 8, 1924 - Castle Gate Mine Explosion, 50 of the 171 killed were native-born Greeks.

  • August 2, 1925 - Holy Trinity Cathedral was consecrated

  • 23 Utah Greeks killed in WWII combat

  • Hellenic Memorial Building was built

  • Hellenic Memorial Building addition and warehouse built

  • May 23, 1986 - Hellenic Cultural Association established.

  • May 29, 1988 - Memorial Monument dedicated north of Holy Trinity Cathedral

  • May 3, 1992 - Hellenic Cultural Museum dedicated.

  • Significant remodel to Holy Trinity. Plans can be seen here

  • October 29, 2005 - 100th Anniversary of the first Greek Orthodox Church in SLC 

  • April 27, 2008 - TRAX Old GreekTown Stop opened

  • June 7, 2016 - Monument dedicated at the first Greek Orthodox site which was located on 439 West 400 South 

  • HCA Helps GOCSLC Observe Greece's 200th Anniversary of Independence With Unique Commemorative Flag

  • March 25, 2021 - Greek flags flown at Acropolis for Greece’s Bicentennial Observance in Utah, 200 flags on Holy Trinity & Prophet Elias grounds

History of Holy Trinity

Group_of_people_gathered_on_the_steps_of_the_Holy_Trinity_Greek_Orthodox_Church_in_Salt_Lake_City_Utah_1925.jpg
This group of Greek immigrants attended Good Friday services at Salt Lake City’s original Holy Trinity Church in 1913 prior to departing for Greece to fight for their homeland in the Balkan Wars of 1912-1913. (The Balkan Wars involved Greece, Bulgari