Design & Architecture of the St. George Utah Temple
Discovering the St. George Utah Temple: A Historical Journey
The St. George Utah Temple, located at 250 E 400 S, St. George, Utah 84770, is a fascinating piece of history that offers a glimpse into the architectural and spiritual aspirations of its time.
The Journey Begins
The announcement of the St. George Utah Temple was made on January 31, 1871, an indication of the commitment and faith of the individuals involved. Groundbreaking took place on November 9, 1871, led by the Prophet Brigham Young, the Second Prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This was just the beginning of a complex yet inspiring journey.
Unique Conditions and Construction
Building the St. George Utah Temple was no small feat. Construction began on swampy ground that presented various challenges. Remarkably, volcanic rock was used, with the material being moved using a cannon. Today, samples of this rock can be viewed at the visitor center. Spanning over 6.5 acres, the Temple features an exquisite exterior finish made from native redstone sandstone quarried just north of the city, giving it a distinctive look when combined with its white plaster.
Features of the Temple
With a total area of 143,969 square feet, the St. George Utah Temple also showcases a single attached end tower that adds to its grandeur. Inside, it boasts three instruction rooms, several sealing rooms, and one baptistry—a layout designed to facilitate various activities.
Historical Significance
It is noteworthy that this Temple was the first built in the Utah Territory, carrying the unique distinction of being the only one completed during Brigham Young’s thirty years as Prophet. Originally known simply as the St. George Temple, its dedication took place on January 1, 1877, characterized by a sequence of three dedicatory prayers. Wilford Woodruff dedicated the baptistry, Erastus Snow the assembly room, and Brigham Young, Jr. the sealing room. Shortly after, baptisms for the dead and endowments were initiated.
Architectural Evolution
In a twist of fate, the original tower was struck by lightning about a year after its dedication, sustaining significant damage. A new, taller, and more majestic tower was completed in 1883, showcasing the resilience and dedication to the Temple’s design.
An Unforgettable Encounter
One of the remarkable stories associated with the St. George Utah Temple involves Wilford Woodruff, who reportedly encountered the Founding Fathers of the United States here. They appeared to ask why their temple work had not yet been performed, underscoring the Temple’s spiritual weight. A striking painting titled “That We May Be Redeemed” by Harold I. Hopkinson capturing this event hung in the lobby for decades.
A Moment of Crisis
The journey of the St. George Utah Temple was not without its challenges. In November 1928, a fire broke out, destroying the annex built in 1883. Fortunately, all records and furnishings were saved, emphasizing the commitment to preserving the Temple’s heritage.
Recent Developments
The most recent public open house was held from September 15 to November 11, 2023, led by Apostle Jeffrey R. Holland. This event provided a newer generation an opportunity to engage with this significant site.
The St. George Utah Temple continues to be a focal point for reflection and a testament to the enduring legacies of faith, craftsmanship, and community spirit. Whether you are an architectural enthusiast or someone interested in history, this Temple offers an engaging narrative filled with remarkable events and milestones.