Temples have always been important to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The St. George Utah Temple, built by dedicated pioneers sent by Brigham Young, has the distinction of being the third temple built, the first completed in Utah as well as the longest in operation. Understandably, more historical firsts happened inside this beautiful building.

Its tower was damaged by a lightning storm in 1878, rebuilt and improved by 1883. In 1928 a fire destroyed the annex, but records were saved and the building remodeled extensively in 1937 and 1938. Thirty-seven years later, another refurbishment was completed in 1975. After 44 more years the historic Temple needed another reconditioning and facelift.

If you have driven past and wondered how its latest renovation was progressing and what is being done, you will find the presentation at the McQuarrie Memorial Museum interesting and informative.

On Saturday, Oct. 15, at 10 a.m., the DUP presents their entertaining third weekend event with presenters Brother and Sister Veigel. They will talk about the history leading up the building of the St. George Utah Temple as well as the construction of the original building. Because they have been Construction Missionaries, they have photos and up-to-date information about the renovation challenges and progress. It will be a fascinating peek into the beloved Temple’s modernization and restoration.

The DUP McQuarrie Museum is located at 147 N. 100 E. in St. George and admission is free. There is handicap access and for more information you can visit their website at dupstgeorge.org or call 435-628-7274.

The Lawmen and Muddy River Gang will be performing a short Shootout at 9:45-11:45 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 15 in front of the Museum. It is free and very exciting to see a re-enactment of an old fashion western shootout.