Mantua and Flax Production

The first major crop grown in Mantua, Utah by the Danish pioneers was flax.

In 1863, twelve Danish families were specifically sent to the valley (then known as "Little Valley") by LDS Church leader Lorenzo Snow for the primary purpose of cultivating flax and hemp.

Key Historical Details:

• Leadership:

-Hans Peter Jensen(the designated presiding Elder) presided over the settlement from its 1863 founding until 1877. During this time, Mantua functioned as a branch of the Brigham City Ward.

-The Mantua settlement became the Mantua Ward 1877. Peter Christian Johnson/Jensen became the first Bishop.

Why Flax?

The decision to grow flax in Mantua was a calculated move by LDS church leadership to promote territorial self-sufficiency. Here is why the valley was chosen:

• Climate and Water: Mantua’s cool mountain temperatures and abundant fresh-water springs provided the ideal environment for flax, which requires significant moisture.

• Industry and Textiles: The flax was intended to supply raw material for the Brigham City Cooperative mills. The goal was to produce linen thread for summer clothing, household linens, and grain sacks, reducing the settlers' reliance on expensive imported goods.

• Specialized Labor: The Danish settlers were specifically chosen because of their Danish heritage. Many of the Danish settlers were skilled in the agricultural production of flax and the artisan trades of spinning and weaving fabric.

Historical Legacy

The town was originally nicknamed "Flaxville" or "Little Copenhagen" due to its Danish population and its specific agricultural mission.

While the initial flax crops were sometimes considered too coarse for high-end cloth, the industry helped establish the community. Over time, the agriculture in the valley diversified into wheat fields, dairy farming, and eventually mink farming, which became a massive part of Mantua's economy in the 20th century.

During much of the 19th and most of the 20th centuries the Mantua culture was one of agriculture.

Sources:

-Mantua Town History

-Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, records

-Box Elder Lore of the Nineteenth Century