The Smithfield Tabernacle took about 20 years to build--it was started in 1881, and not finished until 1902. It was finally dedicated in 1906.
 |
| (Image Source: Church History Library) |
 |
| (Image Source: Church History Library) |
It was a standard tabernacle--tall, arched windows that were tinted green, a balcony overlooking the chapel. But in 1951, the congregation it housed moved to a new chapel, and it sat unused for a few years. So the Church converted it to a gym for its youth programs. The windows were bricked in, the interior was made into a gym, and the spires were removed to avoid the appearance of a chapel.
 |
| (Image Source: Church History Library) |
The building was deeded to Smithfield City in 1985. It still houses a gym, but it looks a little worse for the wear.
Recently, the city initiated a study concerning the tabernacle and its future. It was determined that it will cost over $1 million to remodel the tabernacle, no matter what it turns into. Fortunately, the study strongly encouraged the city to restore the building to its original appearance, including its windows and spires. No final decision has been made yet--government moves slow--but I hope that this building can be preserved and restored.
Cache Valley needs another temple. Smithfield?
ReplyDeleteThis is incredibly sad. As a Smithfield resident, I would love to see this building restored to its former glory. It seems like most pioneer era tabernacles in Utah are still in use for concerts, firesides, stake conferences etc.
ReplyDeleteI was in the tabernacle recently and all I saw was the gym. Are there other rooms in the building? Looking from the outside it’s looks fairly large, but from the gym it seems smaller.
ReplyDeleteI was just here on a trip to see all the old temples, churches, and tabernacles in the area. I would really love to see this one restored. The Paris Tabernacle is amazing inside and it is a great place for civic and cultural events. I think the city should ask the LDS Church to do it. They have lots of funds that they intend to invest into things like this, as we have seen, because they think it's important to preserve church historical sites, where possible. These old pictures show what a great old building this is. Such great stature and character.
ReplyDelete