Colorado City’s Efforts to Move Beyond FLDS History and Rebrand Itself

In the remote northwest corner of Arizona lies a small town with an intriguing name: Colorado City. Just a step across the street lands you in Utah, where the town is known as Hildale. Collectively, these towns are referred to as Short Creek, known for their turbulent past under the rule of the extremist FLDS sect led by Warren Jeffs, now imprisoned for life due to his crimes against women in the community.

Residents of Short Creek are working towards a new chapter, aiming to shed the shadows of the past by transforming the area into a tourist haven. Craig Outhier, editor at Phoenix Magazine, recently explored this region and shared insights about this transformation on The Show. Read more about his visit here.

Community Transformation

CRAIG OUTHIER: Shane, a former hairdresser from St. George, discovered a piece of land owned by Warren Jeffs, who paradoxically dabbled in winemaking. Despite Jeffs’ stance against alcohol consumption, Shane saw potential in the vineyards there. He began learning about winemaking, and now runs a successful business that includes a charming Airbnb and event space.

SAM DINGMAN: To be clear, Jeffs did not sanction alcohol for his followers.

OUTHIER: True, though alcohol wasn’t as strictly prohibited as in mainstream Mormonism.

OUTHIER: Shane’s story is just one example of how the area is being revitalized. The property has become a beautiful venue for weddings and wine tastings, symbolizing the broader changes in Colorado City and Hildale.

The Mayor’s Vision

DINGMAN: Let’s discuss Mayor Jessop, a pivotal figure in your article. She endured some of the darkest times during Jeffs’ control.

OUTHIER: Indeed. Mayor Jessop, who faced severe challenges during Jeffs’ era, has returned to lead the community. She embodies a live-and-let-live philosophy, focusing on future prosperity rather than the past. Despite the presence of attractions like the Airbnb in Jeffs’ former compound, she emphasizes the area’s natural beauty and community spirit.

(Photo by Jackie Hai – KJZZ)

Personal Journeys

DINGMAN: Shem Fischer, another key figure, had his home taken by the Jeffs family. Can you elaborate on his story?

OUTHIER: Fischer, who was excommunicated and banished, had his home, a mansion, occupied by Jeffs’ brother. After the state’s intervention, he reclaimed and renovated it into a guest lodge. His journey reflects how former residents are reclaiming their lives.

DINGMAN: Are there still FLDS members in Short Creek?

OUTHIER: Yes, although Mayor Jessop notes that only a small fraction, perhaps one in 200, still adhere to traditional dress. Many have left, and the community is evolving, with former outsiders now taking leadership roles.