Orem Second Ward

Note: This post is one in a series that focuses on LDS architecture that is not historic, but that departs from standard cookie-cutter plans to become unique and beautiful in a different way. To see all of these posts, click here.

The Orem Second Ward looks to have been constructed sometime in the 1950s or early 1960s.

 (Source: Church History Library)

It still stands on the corner of 400 N and 400 E in Orem. I liked the simple themes on the exterior of the chapel.

Then I compared the interior of the chapel as it was in the early 1960s to now:

(Source: Church History Library) 

To be honest, I preferred the chapel as it appeared originally. The current chapel has the theme on the outside of repeated squares and crosses, which is nice. However, the original connected with the outside theme by having the square in the cross on the pulpit and doors. The doors looked much nicer than they do now. And I liked having the simple picture of Christ, although I know pictures in general are a rarity in LDS Chapels. Still, it's a nice chapel to be able to visit.