Draper Historical Society will hold its annual Heritage Banquet on Wednesday, July 16 at Draper Elementary, 1080 E. 12660 South. The event begins at 6 p.m. and includes a buffet-style dinner, a raffle and a lecture on Draper history.

Lynne Orgill, president of Draper Historical Society, said, "This year our speaker will be Paul Roden who will give a presentation about William Draper."

Draper City was named after William Draper III, known to his family as William Draper Jr. He was the first presiding branch elder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the small pioneer community then known as South Willow Creek. Draper and his extended family established a farm near what is now the intersection of Pioneer Road and Fort Street in 1850 where he grew wheat and raised livestock.

The Heritage Banquet itself is historical in that it has its roots in Old Folks Day, an annual celebration of the city's elders which was initiated in 1898 by pioneer Willard Snow.

Every year, the Heritage Banquet is an opportunity for Draper residents both young and old to learn a little history, enjoy a meal and perhaps leave with a prize. The raffle prizes are donated by members of the community and can range from handmade quilts to gift cards from local businesses.

Orgill explained that the Historical Society changed the buffet offerings a bit this year. “The caterer had pulled pork as an option so we decided to try that,” she said.

Tickets to the Heritage Banquet cost $15 and may be purchased in advance on the Draper City website or at the door for cash or check. For more information and for the link to purchase tickets, visit www.draperutah.gov/events-programs/community-events/draper-days/heritage-banquet/.λ