Early on, Manila had such names as Chambers for R. C. Chambers, Lewisallen for a prominant early settler, Lewis Allen, and also the name of Lucerne for the alfalfa grown in the valley which was for the local stockmen, the source of winter feed.
The suveyor of the settlement, Adolf Jessen, named the settlement Manila in 1898 in commemoration of the victry of Admiral Dewey over the Spanish fleet at Manila, Philippine Islands.
Manila serves as home to the Forest Service headquarters for Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Situated in the transition from the vast Wyoming deserts to Utah's High Uinta Mountains, the town's unique location allows visitors to easily experience the diversity of Flaming Gorge Country. In fact, at only five miles away, Manila is the closest community serving the year-round recreational opportunities on the lake. This rural town offers several fun summer events to Flaming Gorge visitors. The Cow Country Rodeo in mid-July is one of the oldest amateur rodeos in the west. Lake-shore events include the enchanting Parade of Lights and a dazzling display of Labor Day fireworks.
UtahReach! 2010