Donald Fawson Oral History Interview

In an interview on March 29, 2024, Donald Fawson, a long-time resident of Leeds, Utah, discussed his experiences living in the rural community for 53 years. He initially moved to Leeds with his family during the Vietnam War, seeking a rural environment to raise his children, and was drawn to the area's natural beauty and close-knit community. Fawson, who has served extensively as a volunteer in various town roles including the fire department chief and water board president, highlighted the benefits of rural living such as reduced crowding and access to outdoor recreation, but also acknowledged challenges like increased growth, traffic, and the difficulty of recruiting younger volunteers due to time commitments and the rising costs of living. He expressed concern that rapid development, fueled by improved water and sewer infrastructure, could alter the rural character he cherishes, leading to issues like increased crime and a scarcity of affordable housing, and noted that while his nine children are dispersed across the country due to job opportunities, his love for Leeds remains rooted in its familiarity and community spirit.