By Leah Cowdell, Taylorsville City

For more than 25 years, Connie Taney and Margaret Player have devoted countless hours to the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center, helping to preserve the city’s history and keep its stories alive for future generations. Both also serve on the Taylorsville Historic Preservation Committee, which works to maintain the character and identity of the community.

Taney’s journey began in the late 1990s when her grandparents’ home was put up for sale. Determined to ensure it remained part of the community, she helped lay the groundwork for the museum that now stands as a testament to local history. It is located at 1488 W. 4800 South, and visitors can tour the museum and grounds free of charge or explore them virtually through the Heritage Center’s online tour.

“My roots go very deep here,” said Taney (pictured in pioneer costume at the museum). “My grandmother raised nine children in that home, and now I’m helping preserve it for others.”

Player (pictured in the museum's kitchen) joined the effort soon after, recalling the early days of transforming the house into a museum. She remembers removing shag carpet, taking down heavy drapes, and uncovering the home’s original wood floors — tasks that revealed the building’s historic charm.

“Connie and I have been very proud of the home and surrounding areas that we have also had a big part in shaping,” Player said.

She takes particular pride in the personal touches she added to the home to make it feel authentic. “Some of my favorite contributions have been decorating the home and adding personal details,” she said. “I sewed nightgowns, crocheted slippers and stitched curtains. All of this gave me a sense of achievement and showed how beautiful the home could be.”

For both women, their service has never been about recognition; rather, it’s about connection.

“It’s the people I work with. I enjoy going to see them,” Player said.

Taney added, “I can’t stay away from that place. It’s in my blood.”

Both Taney and Player (shown here using the keys to the museum for the very first time) were among the city’s many dedicated volunteers honored at this year’s Taylorsville Volunteer Appreciation Picnic at Centennial Plaza on Aug. 28. The event was the most well-attended in recent years, providing a relaxed atmosphere for thanking volunteers through food and conversation.

At a recent City Council meeting, Mayor Kristie Overson expressed her gratitude, stating, “Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our city. Their dedication and service make Taylorsville a better place for all.”

The decades of dedication by Taney and Player, as well as Taylorsville’s many other volunteers, reflect a deep commitment to fostering lasting relationships and a sense of community, Mayor Overson said. “We are so grateful for their efforts and generous service to our community.”

Interested in volunteering yourself? Learn more and sign up here. Taylorsville offers multiple committees covering a variety of interests, all seeking enthusiastic helpers.