On July 27, 1847, an exploring party of pioneers bathed near historic Black Rock. In 1851, the first recorded Fourth of July celebration was held here; 150 vehicles and 60 horsemen arrived from Salt Lake City. A huge, homemade flag was unfurled. About 1860, a rock home was erected where guests were entertained. In 1880, Alonzo Hyde and David J. Taylor erected 100 bathhouses, a bowery, boardwalk and other amenities. Steamboats sailing the lake were an attraction.