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.
ReplyDeleteThe building was conceived in the 1880s when Bishop James A. Allred appointed a committee to set the wheels in motion, although it was probably begun in the mid 1890's. The first newspaper reference is in 1896 but it notes that the foundation stones were in place. (How long does it take to do that by hand, pick and shovel?) Oolitic limestone blocks were being collected for the walls at that time. It was incorporated in March 1902 which might be why it says it was erected then?? It cost $1700.00 to incorporated the Ward, at the same time as many other ward buildings around the state. Used in 1911, but not dedicated until 1914. Cost for the original building was $40,000. All but $6,000 of that amount was raised by Spring City people. It should be noted that the addition dedicated in 1978 cost over $400,000; however, the whole amount was not required of local members. from Kaye W, September 2024.
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