The Rexburg Tabernacle is yet another item that is widely overlooked and under-appreciated in Rexburg. It’s a local historic Gem. I’ve always wanted to go see the inside of it, but never made an effort, as I thought it wasn’t going to be very interesting. It was originally built as a meeting house for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but was recovered by the City of Rexburg shortly after the Teton Flood. Originally, it held Church meetings, Conferences, and baptisms were even performed there. It was dedicated in the 1930’s by President Joseph F. Smith.
The Tabernacle features a large stage, pipe organ, and seating for 1,800 people, including the balcony (that is blocked off from the public — that didn’t stop us from sneaking up the stairs). It plays host to numerous local groups on various nights and weekends. One of the more popular groups seen here is Rexburg’s Barbershop Carousel which features different local men singing barbershop music.
The Tabernacle is absolutely beautiful, with intricate designs that cover the walls and ceiling. There are two stained glass windows at the front of the building that feature the wording “LDS”, which was interesting to see. The benches are made of all wood, and many of them show their age, as they creak when sitting. Along the walls of the tabernacle are many glass cases filled with pictures and other bits of history that walk you through the ages and events that have happened over the years.
To see the tabernacle, it’s completely free and open to the public. I’d highly recommend a visit on a lazy afternoon when you’re looking for something to do.
The basement of the Tabernacle houses the Teton Dam Flood Museum. Here you can relive what destroyed the valley years ago. Whether you visit the tabernacle or the museum, it makes for an enjoyable outting. While we visited the museum at the same time as the tabernacle, I’ll do a separate write-up of that here.
Location:
51 N. Center
Rexburg, ID 83440
(Located right behind Taco Bell. You can’t miss it.)
Hours:
Winter: October – April
Monday: 11:00am – 7:00pm
Tuesday – Friday: 11:00am – 5:00pm
Summer: May – September
Monday: 10:00am – 7:00pm
Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
5 Responses
J. Corpany
Are your photos copywritten? If I attribute, are you willing to allow them to be reposted on the website http://www.rexburg.com that is being created?
matheson
Yes, my photos are copyrighted. But as long as I receive credit, you’re free to use them.
jolana
Where do I find event that are going on in Rexburg? I have been searching for an hour trying to find holiday concerts and events for the tabernacle and community. I am trying to make a list to give the sisters in our ward…
matheson
Hi Jolana,
Finding events in Rexburg and surrounding areas can sometimes be difficult. Often times, I like to listen to local radio stations or visit their website. They generally stay fairly current on local events. Watch for signs and posters around town as well.
David Bruce Andrus
The O”OLE” buiding still looks great. I sanf a solo with thr combined Ricks College Choirs in December of 1966 in this magnificate building. My wife was baptiswed in the basement in April of 1971 (convert). Great to see that it is still standing and being used.