Charles Popperton was a working class mason who constructed many of the local historic mansions and buildings of downtown. He settled in the Federal Heights area in the mid-1800's and supplemented his income by raising cattle.

His quiet life was rattled when the commander of Fort Douglas ordered him off the land. The case was eventually taken to the level of the President of the United States, Grover Cleveland, who decided in favor of Popperton and also provided him with an additional 80 acres of land in 1886.

The tract of land called Popperton's Place remained in his possession for another 21 years until it was sold for $100,000 in 1907.

It was then subdivided and renamed Federal Heights to give it a more dignified name that could compete with areas like Harvard/Yale and Gilmer Park.


Federal Heights begins on the East side of Virginia Street (1350 East) between South Temple and 11th Avenue. Many of the older estates are listed on the National Historic Register. These tree lined streets are often visited by Sunday drivers looking to take a step back in history.

This community lies in the shadow of the University of Utah and many Salt Lake professionals covet the area due to it's proximity to downtown and the sophistication of the neighborhood.