This monument marks the site of the "Old Fort" in which the Mormon Pioneers wintered in 1847-48 and in which some of the settlers resided for several years. Brigham Young laid the foundation stones on August 10, 1847, for 4 of the 17 houses erected of logs and sun-dried mud blocks on August 11, 1847, the first adobe in the 9 foot wall was laid. The houses formed part of the wall that enclosed this 10 acre block, as protection against Indians. The fort was completed in November 1847. On July 24, 1898, Pioneer Square was dedicated as a public park. The improved park was opened July 24, 1903.
