Hildale, Utah – High above the red-rock landscape of Short Creek Valley, the flag that flies from the summit of El Capitan has become more than a symbol — it is a testament to community pride, volunteer grit, and the enduring bond between Hildale’s residents and the land they call home. This year, Hildale City brought that story to the Washington County Fair, honoring the beloved banner with a booth that turned heads and opened hearts.
Hildale’s booth is part of the Washington County Fair, running April 10–18 in Hurricane, UT. Stop by and see the display before it wraps up on the 18th!
“The flag that flies from El Capitan isn’t just a piece of fabric — it’s a declaration that this valley and its people are here, proud, and standing tall.”
A Replica Built by Community Hands
At the heart of Hildale’s fair booth stood a striking replica of the El Capitan flag, crafted and painted by dedicated local volunteers. Bruce Barlow, Mitch Jessop, and Brigham Holm constructed the replica, while artists Julie Black and Joe Jessop brought it to vivid life with their paintwork. The result was a faithful tribute to the original — commanding in presence and deeply personal in meaning.
Additional volunteers who made the booth possible include Jamison Barlow, Mayor Jessop, Mae Barlow, and Misty Powers. It was a true community effort from start to finish.
The Flag That Flew — and a Chance to Take It Home
Also on display is the retired El Capitan flag — carefully folded and ready for its next chapter. The worn original, which was recently taken down after weathering the elements on the summit, will be given away in a raffle drawing closer to the Fourth of July. One lucky community member will have the chance to own this piece of Hildale history.
All funds raised support the ongoing effort to keep a fresh flag flying over El Capitan. The rugged mountain environment demands a new flag roughly every three months — a continuous commitment that the community has embraced with pride.
See the New Flag Up Close: The 20 × 30 Flag at the Grafton Building
Ever wondered just how large that flag flying over El Capitan truly is? The brand new 20-by-30-foot replacement flag is on full display inside the Grafton Building, giving everyone an up-close look at the sheer scale of what will soon soar above the valley. Seeing it in person is a reminder of the ambition — and the labor of love — that goes into keeping that flag aloft.
The Story Behind the Flag — On Display
Also on display at the booth is the UZona Record article “Grit and Glory: Short Creek’s Community Keeps El Capitan’s Flag Flying High,” published June 16, 2025. The piece chronicles the full history of the El Capitan flag — from its origins to the extraordinary volunteer effort that keeps it flying. Visitors were invited to read it and discover the deeper story woven into every thread of that flag.
Together, the replica, the retired original, the full-size new flag, and the published account created a booth that was equal parts celebration and education — a complete portrait of one of the valley’s most enduring traditions.
Hildale City thanks all volunteers, artists, and community members who contributed to making the Washington County Fair booth a success. For more information about the raffle or how to support the El Capitan flag fund, contact Hildale City.
All proceeds support the El Capitan Flag Fund · Raffle for the retired flag held closer to Independence Day · The new 20 × 30 flag can be viewed at the Grafton Building.
