Watkin L. Roe, the Editor of the Franklin County Citizen newspaper, gave written support through much of the spring of 1916. The cleaning effort had been gathering some steam over the last four years, but there were obviously a good many landowners trying to ignore the problems that existed. In one April editorial Roe held forth on the natural beauties that were present in northern Cache Valley, almost within reach of a person’s doorstep. Then he continued with a rather pointed push.

“ We should not leave until tomorrow one duty which can be performed today. And this thought brings to our mind a few important duties which confront us if we consider the welfare of our people. This town could stand a good thorough cleanup. Our good housewives will take care of the homes, but we of the masculine gender might well look to the cleaning of the streets, and the alleys, and the vacant property. Refuse is to be found in many places, and these heaps are breeding spots for germs, and disease, and often death. We expect our women to keep our homes clean, sanitary, and attractive — and they do. No censure for neglect is to be placed at their doors. But they have an equal right to expect that we will keep our other surroundings in a like condition. As we receive, so should we give. As we expect of others, so should we do ourselves.”

Editor Roe got specific about various things that should be considered in this Cleaning up. Under the heading “As the Editor Sees It” he listed: Good Houses, writing that the most brilliant minds were dulled by dismal surroundings. It didn’t cost all that much and would be helpful to the future of all who lived in the house. Good Schools, Good Churches, Good stores, Good Shops, Good Roads, Good Business, Good People. This being primarily an area of agriculture at the time he included Good Farms, and Barns in particular, stating that the “faithful horse and cow should have their share of cleaning up, that these animals didn’t complain, were not paid and yet were ‘items’ that each resident was dependent upon.

The following summer members of the county Board of Health announced that they would be making a tour of inspection of the sanitary conditions throughout the area. Notices had been served on residents who had neglected the cleaning up campaign. It was felt that only actual inspections could enforce the issue to make the county as immune from diseases as possible. The board was made up of the County Commissioners, the County Physician and the Sheriff. The heat of summer days would only aggravate any threatening conditions for the populace.

When another year rolled around the County Health Board printed their expectations in the newspaper, canceling out any claim of being unaware of what was needed. The declaration was signed by Dr. Allen R. Cutler

“ To the public of Franklin County Idaho: You are hereby notified that the time set for the completion of the spring cleanup is May 15, 1917, and your attention is herewith called to the following state requirements:

“Privies — Manure Disposal, Rule XXXV. All privies, toilets and outhouses used for depositing human excreta must be made fire proof and protected as follows:

“The roof must be water tight. The house shall be without cracks through which flies may enter. The door shall fit closely and be self-closing. The opening on seats shall have hinged coverings, The vault, whether pit, box, or tank, tub pail or other receptacle shall be securely protected against flies. All openings for ventilation, etc, shall be screened with wire netting.

“Every person, whether owner, tenant, employed, or agent, being in charge of any stable, barn or other place where horses, mules, cows or other livestock is kept, shall clean such barns, corrals, chicken coops or pig pens at least twice a year, one in the spring not later than May 15th, of each spring and once in the fall and oftener if necessary.

“The provisions of this regulation shall not apply to stables or places from which manure is removed each day.

“The State Sanitary Inspector, county and local health officers will strictly enforce this regulation.”

This was not a suggestion, this was “by Order of the County Health Board.”

Progress was made, evidently enforcing had its effect and each year the county continued with the efforts to enhance the living conditions for the area. It eventually became an annual event, planned by city, county and individuals, as it is today. Before too many years had passed one more positive move was in the planning—Fix Up.Things indoor or outdoors often just needed a little ‘fixing up,’ but was easy to list as something to procrastinate. It became a Clean Up, Fix Up, and Paint Up Campaign. The local businesses held sales of supplies to match the season.

Mayor Joseph S. Marrom, of 1920, stated how this national effort had resulted in many advantages to community life throughout the entire nation. It safeguarded health, it promoted thrift, contributed to fire prevention, it stimulated civic pride. Home and City Beautiful was the aim of many civic governments. For Franklin County in the year of 1920, all places of business would be closed for the day. Everyone would have the time to put forth the effort required. It was a worthy movement and one more motto would be added: “Keep It Up,” for health, thrift, safety and beauty.