by Kylee Boyter
kboyter@cherryroad.com
On Monday, Jan. 27, Tuxzyn Burr Hathway, a 15-year-old from Koosharem, joined his family in expressing their concerns over a proposed name change to the ‘Burr Trail Scenic Backway.’ The trail, named after Hathway’s great-great-uncle, John Atlantic Burr, was proposed to be renamed to the ‘Donald J. Trump Presidential Burr Trail Backway’ in Garfield County.
Earlier this month, Garfield County Commissioner Leland Pollock proposed renaming either the Burr Trail Scenic Backway or John’s Valley Road to honor President Donald J. Trump. Pollock stated his intention was to recognize the Trump administration’s policies in the county during his first term, including a 2017 proclamation downsizing the Grand-Staircase Escalante and Bears Ears national monuments.
The Burr Trail, however, carries deep historical significance. It was originally named after John Atlantic Burr, a pioneer and rancher who settled in the area and carved out the trail to move his cattle.
“I spoke at the meeting and my message was about my connection to John Atlantic Burr,” said Hathway. “He was my great-great-uncle who was born on the Atlantic Ocean.” Hathway shared how, through his family history class, he recently learned about his great-great-uncle’s trials and triumphs crossing the plains and settling in the Garfield County area.
“I was inspired by his journey,” Hathway added. “I felt that they [the county commissioners] shouldn’t vote to remove his name from the road. That is our heritage.”
At the county commissioners’ meeting, Hathway proudly displayed a handmade sign reading, “Let The Local Legacy Live On.” After several other attendees voiced their concerns, the commissioners ultimately voted 2-1 against the name change.
For Hathway and many Garfield County residents, the decision wasn’t about politics but about preserving the history and legacy of John Atlantic Burr. “I was so happy when the commissioners both said no,” Hathway said. “I started clapping and almost cried. The name means a lot to my family and those who live near it.”
