Sugarhouse was officially established in
1853. The name was inspired by the sugar mill being built in the area
but the mill never produced more than unrefined molasses.
Sugarhouse had the first Utah state prison during the 19th century and
early 20th century. The prison was closed in 1951 and all the buildings
were torn down, and the land was converted to Sugar House Park and
Highland High School.
During the 1980s, Sugarhouse apparently grew in it's crime with
Sugarhouse Park having issues with drugs and other and criminal
activities. In complete contrast today, Sugarhouse is now considered to
be one of Salt Lake Cities most desirable neighborhoods.
The Sugarhouse neighborhood currently has a large shopping center that
features a ShopKo, a Toys "R" Us, bookseller Barnes & Noble, clothing
retailer Old Navy, a Whole Foods Market, a Bed Bath & Beyond, a PetSmart,
several fast food and family restaurants, and a 10-screen Cinemark
dollar cinema. Sugarhouse has Westminster College.