I suppose the reason that the Spring City Ward Meetinghouse is so fascinating to me is because its breathtaking architecture--in all its beauty--is in such an obscure and relatively unknown place.
It is sometimes called the Spring City Tabernacle, although it never was a true tabernacle. But it has been noted that buildings that were exceptional in their form were justifiably called tabernacles, and that certainly applies to this building.
The building is amazing and actually has very good acoustics. The Church has spent a goodly amount of money on the exterior stonework to make sure that it is sealed properly. When the addition was added they were able to get the stone from the original quarry used to build the chapel. When the basement was dug for the new addition springs were discovered and an extensive drain had to be installed. Because it is a floating balcony Church engineers carefully examined it with the thought of closing it off for safety reasons. It was found to be so securely anchored to the main building that no further concerns were expressed The large wood panels behind the pulpit used to be pocket doors that opened for entry into the classrooms at the back of the building. With the new addition it was then possible to access them thru the new stairway and hall so they were deactivated for fire safety. The chaple still has the original (non functional) steam radiators installed. The walls themselves are coated in the original pressed tin and are very lovely. This is still a functioning chapel so if you come to visit please be respectful.
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