The Hoyt Pioneer Home was the focal point of the small settlement along the Weber River of “Unionville.” Samuel P. Hoyt employed many residents to build two mill buildings as well as his residence. Construction of the mansion began in 1866. The two-story Gothic Revival building featured an unprecedented sixteen rooms. The stately white home stood in sharp contrast to the primitive log homes of the residents of Unionville. The Hoyt Home served the community with a store in which goods could be purchased in exchange for labor. In addition, Mr. Hoyt ran the town’s first post office out of a small log building set off of the main house. Although both of Hoyt’s entrepreneurial ventures failed, his profound investment in the community was recognized when the town was renamed Hoytsville in his honor.
In Cliff Vernon’s oil on canvas painting, the Hoyt Pioneer Home appears as regal as ever. A dog sits attentively before the stone wall, the house’s stately contours enhanced by the areas of light and shadow created by the sun. A horse grazes peacefully while seagulls fly overhead. Realism and detail are particularly evident in Vernon’s depiction of one of Summit County’s historic assets.
