By MICHELLE TOLMAN
Porter's Place in Lehi is famous for delicious steak and Western cooking, with everything from pork `n' beans to scones `n' honey butter.
Along with great Western dining, Porter's Place houses many historical items related to Porter Rockwell, who the restaurant is named after.
'Porter Rockwell lived in Lehi at one point in time and ran a hot spring's brewery at the Point of the Mountain,' said Robert Trepanier, who bought Porter's Place 11 years ago.
Rockwell, born in Manchester, N.Y., became a good friend to Joseph Smith and was baptized in 1830. He is probably best known as Joseph Smith's body guard.
Rockwell was also known as a terror for the lawless. He gained considerable influence with the Indians and was praised for his service as deputy marshal of Salt Lake City. He died in 1878 at age 63 and is buried in Salt Lake City.
'Porter Rockwell was a man Utah needed. Although he might have been a little rough and tough by today's standards, he was instrumental in early Utah events,' Trepanier said.
The restaurant not only showcases Rockwell but also houses historical items. The bar dates back to 1883 and is from Montana, and an original clock from Hotel Utah hangs in the front room. There are antique rifles, iron stoves, menu's covered in leather and samples of wires that `fenced the West.' There are also pictures of Joseph Smith, Brigham Young and Porter Rockwell.
Porter's Place, which started in 1971, will be built into a bigger restaurant in the near future because of its tremendous growth.
'Our biggest problem is that we've outgrown our location,' Trepanier said. 'We've purchased some land, once owned by Porter, at the Point of the Mountain.'
'About 40 percent of our business comes from Salt Lake City, 25 percent from Lehi, and 15 percent from Provo and Orem,' Trepanier said. 'Most of our advertising is word of mouth.'
Dinner prices range from $10-20, and lunch prices range from $4-6 with ample portions.
Porter's Place is at 24 W. Main in Lehi. Not only does this restaurant offer great food in a relaxed, Western atmosphere, but it also offers a unique historical experience.