Janet Wilcox Oral History Interview

Janet Wilcox, born in 1942, moved to Blanding, Utah, with her husband in the 1970s and has lived there ever since, raising a large family. She discusses the benefits of living in Blanding, including the welcoming people, diverse community (Navajo, Paiute, Hispanic, Anglo, Black), and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and four-wheeling. She highlights the strong sense of community, especially around high school sports like football. While acknowledging challenges like limited big-box stores, she praises the accessible medical care and the local market. As a historian, Janet has been instrumental in preserving local history, co-founding Blue Mountain Shadows magazine, and documenting early roads and oral histories. She also touches on the ongoing debate surrounding land use and protection in San Juan County, the economic impact of the local uranium processing plant, and the historical presence of the film industry in the area. She believes Blanding will continue to be a safe and attractive community, drawing people back due to its family ties and rural charm.