On January 13, 1851 a settlement party led by Apostle George A. Smith settled Parowan. Within one week the necessary governmental officers were elected in what was now United The area was rich with resources: water, timber and Iron. What was first called "The City of the Little Salt Lake" was renamed Parowan, a Native American name meaning "evil water."

As southern Utah's Mother Town, Parowan would become the seat of Iron County. Soon homes were begun and a church was started. The church still stands in the very center of the town square. Many of the era's adobe structures are still in use. On January 13, 1996, Parowan's 145th anniversary, a Heritage Park was dedicated by Mormon Church Prophet/President Gordon B. Hinkley.

The park is on the southern most end of the community's Main Street and is overshadowed by Pratt's flag pole. The park, funded primarily by private donations, depicts the rich heritage of the community. Parowan has a rich heritage but it is not a community trying to remain in the past. The city boasts its own municipal power system and excellent utility distribution system. Tourism is important to the community. Parowan is centrally and conveniently located near Brian Head Ski Area, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument and various other spots of national and local interest. The community has an affinity for theater and the arts and meshes that fancy with a self sustaining, pioneer spirit.