Kanab, an Indian word meaning "Place of the Willows", was settled by Mormon pioneers in the mid-1860s. Irrigation difficulties culminated by in the massive floods of 1883, which in just 2 days gouged a section of creekbed 40 feet below its previous level. Ranching proved better suited than farming in this rugged land. Hollywood discovered the scenery in the 1920s and has filmed more than 150 movies and TV series here since.