The American Fork Third Ward's chapel was originally built in 1903-1905. It had additions in the 1930s and 1950s that added a recreation hall and classrooms.
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| (Image Source: Church History Library) |
Changes to the building over time were not always sensitive to the building's original design--for example, in the 1970s, the stained glass window and tower entrance were bricked in. The wood doors were all replaced. Finally, when the Church sold the building in 1994, they removed the steeple first--probably so the building would no longer appear as a place of worship. This is a confusing policy, and the only other place I've seen it implemented was for the
Smithfield Tabernacle. In both cases, the building's appearance is definitely lacking because of the change. Many other buildings were sold with their steeple, so why was this one removed?
The building was a preschool from 1994 to 2000; after that, it became the
Northampton House, a reception center. At this point, many of the building's original features were restored, including a stained glass window (not the original) and the tower's entry doors (but not the steeple).
I used to drive by this all the time to visit my sister. I have never seen the inside, but the exterior is a jewel! It's nice to finally see what the steeple looked like. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteIt is lovely! I wish the steeple could be replaced. I've seen the interior as well, and it's very well done (as a reception center, anyway).
DeleteGreat blog. The only thing I dislike is that you don't update as much as you did in the past. I liked it when you posted three times a week. I have a love for architecture.
ReplyDeleteThanks, L. Chris! I would like to get back to updating three times a week...unfortunately, work and other personal obligations have been taking up more time lately, so I haven't had the chance to work on this blog as much as before. Hopefully I can get back to that eventually!
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