Exploring the Nashville Tennessee Temple
The Nashville Tennessee Temple stands as the 84th dedicated Temple in operation. Nestled in the serene suburb of Franklin, Tennessee, at 344 Ernest Rice Lane, it lies 15 miles south of Nashville, next to the Franklin Tennessee Stake Center. The surrounding area features two 100-acre horse farms and the historic private high school, Battle Ground Academy. The Temple’s elegant design enhances the charm of the rural residential neighborhood.
Nashville Tennessee Temple Pictures and Art
The Nashville Tennessee Temple was announced to the public on November 9, 1994, by Prophet Howard W. Hunter. Groundbreaking occurred on March 13, 1999, led by John K. Carmack, amidst challenging weather conditions. Approximately 1,500 members from Central Tennessee and Southern Kentucky braved a cold, rainy day to mark this significant milestone. Carmack metaphorically linked the patience shown in securing the Temple site to the struggles faced by Jacob in the Old Testament.
A public open house took place from May 6 to May 13 in 2000, welcoming a remarkable 24,300 attendees. The dedication of the Nashville Tennessee Temple occurred on May 21, 2000, under the leadership of Apostle James E. Faust, with a total attendance of 6,052 across four sessions.
Architectural Features
Covering 6.86 acres, the Nashville Tennessee Temple showcases an exterior finish of imperial danby white marble. Its architectural design features a single attached end spire topped with a gold-leafed Angel Moroni statue. The Temple spans 10,700 square feet and stands at a height of 22 meters, situated at an elevation of 653 feet. Uniquely, it is a single-story Temple and is the first Temple to be constructed in the city of Nashville.
A Notable Construction Period
The construction of the Nashville Tennessee Temple took place simultaneously with the Memphis Tennessee Temple, which was dedicated just one month earlier. During this time, the stake center adjacent to the Temple was also undergoing renovations. Many couples chose to be sealed on the Temple’s opening day.
An excerpt from the dedicatory prayer beautifully encapsulates the spirit and purpose of the Nashville Tennessee Temple: “It is our gift of love. Please accept of it, dear Father, as an expression of the faith we have in Thine eternal purposes…”
Challenges and Redirection
From 1995 to 1998, efforts were made to rezone land at Hillsboro Pike and Old Hickory Boulevard for the construction of the Nashville Tennessee Temple. When those plans fell through, that site eventually transformed into a city hall and a Nashville Electric Service substation. Revised plans were announced on April 25, 1998, leading to the choice of a new location for the Temple, one that marked a new chapter in its development.
In conclusion, the Nashville Tennessee Temple serves as a significant testament to the faith and dedication of those who contributed to its creation. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and connection to the local area have solidified its place in the hearts of many.
Nashville Tennessee Temple Pictures and Art by LDS Temple News.