Lehi marker honors pioneer woman whose late wheat survived 1855 grasshoppers

The Lehi Historical Society unveiled a marker at Dry Creek Park, 1550 N. 100 West, on Oct. 10 honoring pioneers Sarah and Canute Peterson and the story known as "Salvation Wheat," the Lehi Free Press reported in an article written by a historical society member. ^[1]

According to the marker, Sarah Peterson planted her wheat later and deeper than other farmers in 1855, so her field had not yet sprouted when grasshoppers destroyed Lehi's crops. Her late harvest fed her family and neighbors, and she saved a jar of the grain for Canute, who was returning from a mission and was later buried with it. ^[1]

Nicole Kunze of the historical society said the group has not pinpointed the Petersons' farm but chose Dry Creek Park because its name reflects where they lived. Descendants spoke at the event, and City Council member Heather Newall said learning such stories helps people "care more deeply about this place," according to the report. ^[1]

It is the 24th marker in the society's program, which is funded by the John David and Danaca Hadfield family of HADCO Construction, a Lehi City PARC grant and sponsors. The next marker, honoring Lehi Junction, will be unveiled Nov. 7 at 11 a.m. at 754 W. 2100 North, the Free Press reported. ^[1]