The Kirtland Temple
The Kirtland Temple, located at 9020 Chillicothe Road in Kirtland, Ohio, stands as a fascinating piece of history situated on a bluff overlooking the beautiful Chagrin Valley. About 25 miles east of Cleveland, this significant Church property has a rich narrative that dates back to its announcement to the public on December 27, 1832.
Early Years and Construction of the Kirtland Temple
The vision for the Kirtland Temple was set forth when the Lord instructed the Saints to create a house of God, as noted in Doctrine and Covenants 88:119. The instruction prompted Church leaders, including the Prophet Joseph Smith, to reveal the design of the Kirtland Temple on June 1, 1833. Construction commenced on June 6, 1833. During this period, the site was closely guarded at night to protect it from hostile elements.
On July 23 of the same year, a cornerstone-laying event was presided over by the First Presidency, including Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, and Frederick G. Williams. To facilitate swift construction, the early members established a sawmill on Stoney Brook in Kirtland in the fall of 1833.
Dedication and Heavenly Manifestations
The dedication of the Kirtland Temple occurred on March 27, 1836, attended by approximately 1,000 individuals. During this historic event, attendees reportedly experienced profound manifestations. Joseph Smith described an atmosphere filled with awe, noting a sound comparable to that of a mighty wind, with numerous individuals speaking in tongues and witnessing remarkable visions. His account illustrates a day brimming with spiritual significance, recorded in Section 109 of the Doctrine and Covenants.
On Easter Sunday, April 3, 1836, during the Jewish Passover, the Lord is said to have appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, accepting the house previously created. Details of this divine encounter are documented in Doctrine and Covenants Section 110, where key priesthood elements were restored through ancient prophets.
Transition and Restoration
Following the dedication, the Kirtland Temple served various purposes. It entered a period where it was leased as a school, and by 1880, the Community of Christ reestablished ownership. They dedicated themselves to restoring the temple close to its original condition, ensuring its preservation for 144 years.
On March 5, 2024, ownership of the Kirtland Temple transferred from the Community of Christ to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The building was temporarily closed for preparation and is set to reopen for tours on March 25, 2024.
Architectural Features of the Kirtland Temple
Design and Structure
The Kirtland Temple encompasses an area of 15,000 square feet and stands 110.5 feet tall, spread over three stories and built on 5.8 acres. Its exterior showcases a blend of Federal, Greek Revival, and Gothic Revival architectural styles, finished with sandstone stucco and plaster. Notably, the fittings include olive green twin Federal-style entry doors framed by distinct stone quoins.
Interior Characteristics
The interior reflects a simple 19th-century New England meetinghouse design, with an emphasis on natural light from windows and oil lamps. The absence of traditional art, murals, or decorative chandeliers contributes to its unique architectural integrity. Noteworthy features also include two large assembly rooms equipped with two-way pulpits and movable pews.
Unique Elements
It’s important to highlight that the Kirtland Temple lacks a baptismal font, instruction rooms, or sealing rooms. The early Saints referred to this space simply as the “Lord’s House,” reflecting the terminology of that era. The absence of traditional elements does not subtract from its historical significance, which resonates through its carefully preserved features.
The Kirtland Temple was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969 and received recognition as a National Historic Landmark in 1977.
This historical site continues to be a vital part of the narrative surrounding the early Saints and their pioneering spirit, embodying an era of hope and ambition in American religious history.