House of the Lord Idaho Falls Idaho Temple by LDS Temple News
Nestled at 1000 Memorial Dr, Idaho Falls, Idaho, the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple is a significant piece of local history and architecture. The story of this notable building began on March 3, 1937, when plans for its construction were first announced. A groundbreaking ceremony was held on December 19, 1938, led by Elder David Smith, paving the way for what would become a cherished site in the area.
The dedication of the site took place on October 19, 1940, spearheaded by Prophet David O. McKay. This marked a significant milestone in the journey of the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple, which officially opened its doors shortly thereafter.
Architectural Marvel
Covering an impressive 85,624 square feet, the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple stands tall at 156 feet. The exterior features reinforced concrete with a layer of white cement from aggregate cast stone, creating thick, durable walls that reach 16 inches in depth. Its architectural design includes a striking single attached central spire crowned with a gold-leafed Angel Moroni statue, a beautiful nod to its religious significance.
Inside, the Temple boasts four instruction rooms, seven sealing rooms, and one baptistry, providing essential spaces for various ceremonies and rituals. The original design was inspired by a vision of the ancient Nephite Temple, which adds to its historical allure.
A Touch of History
This Temple holds the distinction of being the first built in Idaho and the only one dedicated by Prophet George Albert Smith. It pioneered several features, including being the first to have a central spire and one of only seven temples where patrons progress through four ordinance rooms before reaching the Celestial Room.
Excavations during construction even revealed large lave rock, which was cleverly utilized for the basement walls. Furthermore, the completion of the exterior in 1941 led to a slight delay in the interior finishing, which extended into the post-World War II era.
Recent Renovations
In 2017, the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple underwent significant renovations, which took two years to complete. An open house was held from April 22 through May 20, 2017, allowing the community to see the improvements firsthand. The rededication ceremony took place on June 4, 2017, led by Apostle Henry B. Eyring. Upgrades included an extra exit for the Bride and Groom’s room and a spacious waiting area for weddings, enhancing functionality and flow.
Prior to the renovations, the Temple featured three reflection ponds with water lilies and small fish, but in the 1960s, these were transformed into flowerbeds. The extensive landscaping renovation in 2011 introduced a captivating waterfall feature that now adds to the visual appeal of the surroundings.
Scenic Surroundings
Sitting at an elevation of 4,716 feet along the banks of the Snake River, the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple continues to serve as a picturesque site for those in the vicinity. The cascading waters create a serene backdrop, making it more than just an architectural marvel; it offers an appealing natural landscape as well.
Whether assessing its historical significance or its stunning design, the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple stands as a testament to dedication, vision, and community spirit. Each visit brings an opportunity to experience not just the beauty of its physical attributes but also the rich history it embodies.