Temple Facts of the St. George Utah Temple replacement tower was built taller than the first due to a lightening strike
The St. George Utah Temple: A Historical Overview
The St. George Utah Temple, located at 250 E 400 S, St. George, Utah 84770, is a noteworthy achievement in religious architecture and community history. This post delves into its significant past, construction challenges, and unique features.
A Historical Timeline
Announcement and Groundbreaking
The St. George Utah Temple was first announced on January 31, 1871, marking an important moment for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Just a few months later, on November 9, 1871, Brigham Young, the Second Prophet of the Church, conducted the groundbreaking and site dedication.
Construction Challenges
Constructed on 6.5 acres of swampy ground packed with volcanic rock, this site presented a unique challenge. Remarkably, a cannon was used to expedite the process of moving rock, a testament to the ingenuity involved in its construction. Today, visitors can see this volcanic rock on display at the nearby visitor center.
Architectural Features
Design and Materials
The exterior of the St. George Utah Temple is finished with native redstone sandstone, quarried just north of the city and plastered in white. Additional materials include precast concrete and steel, which contribute to its enduring structure. The building reaches a height of 175 feet and sits at an elevation of 2,678 feet.
Interior Spaces
Encompassing 143,969 square feet, the temple features three instruction rooms, several sealing rooms, and a single baptistry. A notable design aspect is the single attached end tower, which adds to its unique architectural profile.
Significant Events and Milestones
Dedication and Early Practices
The St. George Utah Temple was dedicated on January 1, 1877, through a series of three dedicatory prayers. The baptistry was dedicated by Wilford Woodruff, the assembly room by Erastus Snow, and the sealing room by Brigham Young, Jr. Following the dedication, baptisms for the dead were first performed on January 9, 1877, with endowments commencing on January 11, 1877, despite ongoing construction in other areas of the building.
Notable Incidents
Just one year after the dedication, a lightning storm severely damaged the original tower. A replacement tower was completed in 1883, taller and more impressive than its predecessor.
A Unique Encounter
In a fascinating historical account, Wilford Woodruff experienced divine intervention when the Founding Fathers of the United States appeared to him in the temple, asking why their temple work had not yet been performed. This extraordinary event was immortalized in the painting “That We May Be Redeemed” by Harold I. Hopkinson, which hung in the temple lobby for decades.
Challenges and Resilience
Fire and Recovery
In November 1928, a fire broke out, destroying the annex that had been built in 1883. Fortunately, all records and furnishings were saved, showcasing the resilience of those involved in preserving the temple’s legacy.
Conclusion
The St. George Utah Temple stands as an impressive testament to the history and dedication of those who contributed to its construction and maintenance. Its architectural beauty and unique historical events make it a significant focus for both the Church and the broader public, reflecting the enduring spirit of the people involved in its creation.