Providence is a small but growing community in Cache Valley, Utah. Settled by Mormon pioneers in 1859, Providence is known for its German and Swiss ancestry and strong sense of cultural awareness and celebration.

As the 2009 sesquicentennial of Providence approached, the City of Providence wanted to publish an updated version of its history book Providence and Her People. Robert Parson was chosen as the author for the book. The goal of this project was to provide an updated and personal look at the history of Providence and its citizens by collecting oral histories from various people in the community. In the fall of 2005, the Providence Historic Preservation Committee chose sixteen individuals to be interviewed who would reflect various aspects of Providence life and history. Rachel Gianni was hired to conduct the interviews and Lisa Duskin-Goede to edit and assist with technical details. The project was directed for Providence City by Brenda Nelson.

The participants included farmers, car dealership owners, mayors, homemakers, professors, teachers and shop owners. Most of the participants were born and raised in Providence; however, those who came to Providence later in life offered an alternative yet valuable view of Providence’s history. Each interview was tailored to address the firsthand knowledge of historical events within the participant’s experience of life in Providence. Highlights of these interviews focus on: business in town, memories of school days, community celebrations such as Sauerkraut Days and Pioneer Days, and historic buildings such as the Pavilion and the Old Rock Church.

In 2008, the Providence Historic Preservation Committee and Robert Parson requested additional interviews. To this end, the committee chose sixteen individuals to help tell the story of more recent additions to the City's history. These individuals included newcomers, a major land developer, a water conservationist, local politician and modern immigrants from Iran and El Salvador. These interviews were conducted by Lisa Duskin-Goede and Randy Williams.