This is the first article in an occasional series covering the history of the Flinders Ranch, the Flinders family, and their family-run restaurant.
Many a chart-topping song has expressed the wonder and transformative magic of the feelings given by love. On this Valentine’s Day, we will explore a love story that personifies this “curious thing” called love.
In April 1930 George T. Flinders (Judd) and Beth Engh were married in Ogden, Utah – thus beginning a remarkable journey together. Even the economic contagion associated with the Great Depression proved no match for their love. Powered by love, their faith, and Holy Matrimony life offered only limitless possibilities. Together they would realize their dreams.
At the time of their marriage, Judd worked for the local Coca-Cola bottling plant. He drove a delivery truck – one that was not heated. His route covered Salt Lake City to Logan and all points in between. The work was physically demanding, the pay meager. But he was thankful to have the job.
Judd’s work exposed him to numerous eating establishments. His attention to detail knew no limits. He witnessed first-hand formulas that resulted in either success or failure. When not working, Judd helped Beth with their growing family, sharing his experiences and discussing his aspirations. They envisioned a future where they would control their own economic destiny. The cornerstone, starting a family business with multiple sources of income. For Beth and Judd, failure was not an option. Their undeniable love would conquer all challenges.
Credit: Courtesy of Leland Flinders
In 1933 they opened their first restaurant, The Boat, at 21st South and West Temple in Salt Lake City. The business thrived. Leveraging that success, in 1935 they opened a second restaurant, Judd’s Drive In, at 3320 Highland Drive in Salt Lake. This was followed by a third eatery, Park ‘n’ Dine, at 17th South & State Street in Salt Lake. Together they managed the inevitable complications of family life while running three businesses amidst bleak economic times. Their emphasis on high quality, reasonably priced meals, and a “customer first” focus proved a winning formula. It was time for their piece de resistance…
In 1949 the couple purchased a 900-acre cattle and dairy ranch at Kimball Junction. The oldest of their five children, Leland, was eighteen. Like other families of the Depression era, the children, along with their parents, exhibited an amazing work ethic. They had no choice. Besides managing the ranch, Judd and Beth opened a restaurant – Mountain Meadow Ranch. In no time it established itself as one of the finest restaurants in Utah.
Pursuing their goal of financial diversification, they opened a motel and trout “catchery” (“you catch ‘em, we clean ‘em and cook ‘em”). Their next successful venture: square dancing. The ranch featured one of the largest barns in the state, so once the hayloft was emptied (typically May), square dancing took center stage. Friday and Saturday nights consistently sold out. In the fall, weekend hayrides superseded square dancing.
In the economic blight that gripped Park City during this period, the Flinders Ranch succeeded. A miracle powered by the love between Beth and Judd, their children, their families, and their customers.
Acknowledgements: This article owes its existence to the wonderful cooperation of Leland Flinders, his surviving siblings (Jerran, Melvin, Libby), and Scott Smith.
Happy Valentine’s Day from the Park City Museum!