Temple Facts of the St. George Utah Temple has 18 sealing rooms
Exploring the History of the St. George Utah Temple
The St. George Utah Temple has a rich history that reflects the dedication and commitment of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This remarkable site, located at 250 E 400 S, St. George, Utah 84770, is deeply intertwined with the early days of the church in the Utah Territory.
A Journey Through Time
Announcement and Groundbreaking
The St. George Utah Temple was announced on January 31, 1871, marking a significant development for the church. The groundbreaking and site dedication took place on November 9, 1871, led by the Second Prophet of the church, Brigham Young. Choosing a location presented challenges, as the area was swampy ground. However, volcanic rock was eventually packed using a cannon to make way for the construction, with samples of this rock displayed at the nearby visitor center.
Construction Details
Spanning 6.5 acres, the St. George Utah Temple showcases an exterior crafted from native redstone sandstone quarried north of the city, complemented by a coat of white plaster. Further additions were made using precast concrete and steel. The temple features a single attached end tower that rises to a height of 175 feet and stands at an elevation of 2,678 feet.
With a total area of 143,969 square feet, the temple is designed with three instruction rooms, several sealing rooms, and one baptistry, facilitating various functions and activities.
Historical Significance
First in the Utah Territory
This temple holds the title of the first built Temple in the Utah Territory. Originally referred to simply as the St. George Temple, it is notable for being the only temple completed during Brigham Young’s 30 years as Prophet. The original presentations of the endowment were delivered live, highlighting the unique practices of the time.
Dedication and Early Activities
The dedication of the St. George Utah Temple occurred on January 1, 1877, in a series of three dedicatory prayers. Wilford Woodruff dedicated the baptistry, Erastus Snow the assembly room, and Brigham Young, Jr. the sealing room. Shortly thereafter, baptisms for the dead commenced on January 9, 1877, followed by endowments beginning on January 11, 1877, even as construction was still ongoing in other areas.
Architectural Challenges
The original tower of the temple met a tragic fate, succumbing to a lightning storm approximately one year after its dedication. It was later replaced by a new, taller tower that was completed in 1883, adding to the temple’s grandeur.
Unique Experiences
The St. George Utah Temple is also noteworthy for a couple of extraordinary events. The Founding Fathers of the United States appeared twice to Wilford Woodruff within its walls, asking why their temple work had not yet been performed. This poignant moment was immortalized in a striking painting titled That We May be Redeemed by Harold I. Hopkinson, which was displayed in the temple lobby for decades.
A Fire That Changed Everything
In November 1928, a fire broke out, leading to the destruction of the annex built in 1883. Remarkably, all records and furnishings were salvaged, ensuring the church’s history remained intact.
Conclusion
The St. George Utah Temple represents a fascinating chapter in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Its story is filled with perseverance, dedication, and moments of profound significance, making it a notable place within the region. With its historical layers and architectural beauty, the temple continues to be a site of interest and reflection.