The Marmalade Hill Historic District in Salt Lake City is a unique and historically rich neighborhood, both in name and in character. Its name—“Marmalade”—originates from the early settlers’ practice of naming streets after fruit-bearing trees and plants they introduced to the area, such as Quince, Almond, and Apricot. This small, triangular area—bounded by 300 North, 500 North, Center Street, and Quince Street—boasts steep and narrow streets, mature landscaping, and an unusually diverse collection of architectural styles packed into just a few blocks.
What makes Marmalade especially distinctive is the architectural variety and quality preserved within its compact boundaries. While many neighborhoods showcase a dominant style, Marmalade offers a visual timeline of Utah’s residential design history in microcosm. Notable structures include:
- John Platts House (364 Quince Street) – A representative of early Utah architecture.
- Thomas Quayle House (355 Quince Street) – A rare local example of Carpenter Gothic style.
- Reverend John D. Nutting House (161 W 400 North) – A vernacular Queen Anne-style home.
- Morrow-Taylor House (390 Quince Street) – A more refined expression of the Italianate style.
- 19th Ward Meetinghouse (built 1890) – An eclectic Victorian building notable for its onion-shaped dome and pillars, which break from the earlier, more standardized LDS meetinghouse designs.
Marmalade stands today not only as a preserved historic district but also as a tribute to the creativity, craftsmanship, and adaptability of its pioneer builders. It’s one of Salt Lake City’s architectural gems and a testament to the city’s layered cultural and design heritage.