107 years and counting: Whitewashing the ‘D’ remains community, Utah Tech tradition

Written by Layce Lundy
April 10, 2023

ST. GEORGE — Utah Tech University continued the 107-year tradition of whitewashing the “D” overlooking St. George as they brought an end to this year’s D-Week festivities.

Community members whitewash the “D” during D-Week in St. George, Utah, April 8, 2023 | Photo by Layce Lundy, St. George News

What started as a Founders Day celebration for Dixie Academy in 1915 has become a tradition that has carried on.

Former Dixie State University student Connor Shakespeare led this year’s activity. He said he has been involved in the event for over 20 years, and whitewashing the “D” is one of his favorite traditions because it brings together students, alumni, staff and faculty.

The participants gathered at the trail below the “D” at 8 a.m. and hiked together to join in on the timeless tradition.

Before the painting began Shakespeare relayed the history of the event and everyone sang the Utah Tech University fight song.

After the “D” received its fresh coat of paint, the group hiked back down the hill to eat breakfast and look up on the work they had done.

According to the Utah Division of State History, the landmark is locally significant under Criterion A in the area of Social History.

“It is more of a symbol for the entire city, often shown in advertisements and promotional media for the community,” the government website states. “This has become an annual community event to demonstrate school and civic pride.”

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Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2023, all rights reserved.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Layce joined the St George News team in November of 2022. Originally from Midwestern Idaho, she came to Southern Utah to further her education at Utah Tech University. She is currently working towards a degree in Media Studies with an emphasis in Public Relations. When she isn't writing or studying, she enjoys photography and spending time outdoors.

Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @STGnews

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