The first three families pulled into what was to become Payson on Oct. 20, 1850. They named the area Peteetneet before they built Fort Peteetneet. Peteetneet was a local Indian chief whose statue stands in front of the century-old Peteetneet Academy, a former school, now a museum and community center.
Early settlers later called the town Pacen after one of its own, James Pace. The name was changed to Payson when it incorporated in 1853. The 2000 census put the population at 12,716 with a per household income of $43,539.
The city covers 6.8 square miles, and its largest employer is Mountain View Hospital with 480 employees. Residents look forward to Golden Onion Days, the official city celebration over the Labor Day weekend, but also enjoy the city's Salmon Supper every August.
The Scottish Festival, which now has a doubtful future, is in July. Payson is the gateway to the Nebo Loop, a national scenic byway where residents can easily access hunting, fishing and camping opportunities.