I was glad to read the article in The Daily Herald: “Victorian Splendor: Original design influences to be restored in Provo City Center Temple” (Sept. 28th issue). This article has special meaning to me, since my first real extended abode was at the old Travelodge across the street from the then Provo Tabernacle. There would be days when I would go over to The Tabernacle and actually touch the stone structure and contemplate the pioneers who built it between 1883 and dedicated in 1898.

Very few people realize it, but Brigham Young, the man, had a house which he shared with one of his wives just across the street. Although he was dead when the Tabernacle was constructed, it is apparent that there were many families — yes, including ones who practiced plural marriage who entered and prayed in The Tabernacle when first opened. These were adult people who practiced that as a tenet of the faith back in that era.

As I would walk up the steps into that old Tabernacle, I would imagine the countless offspring of those people … and undoubtedly many of the pioneers descendants will enter the new Provo City Center Temple when it is set to open in 2015.

I am happy that the painting of Christ was saved from the fire of December 2010. When initial reports said the building was “gutted,” I wondered if the genuine historical nature of the building could be saved? On the outside skeleton framework, it is undoubtedly Victorian in design. I just hope the interior will have modern amenities, but camouflaged to appear as it did in 1898.

It would be nice to see replica gas lamps fitted with modern, yet unseen electric light bulbs hidden from view. It would be nice to see authentic Victorian rugs and not imitations. I have every confidence that the new City Center Temple will be even better than the present temple which I think is too unorthodox in appearance.

The City Center Temple has a perfect location, rich with history, heritage and tradition. In many ways, that City Center Temple might just set the tone for future reconciliation between the LDS and FLDS Churches. Like the old saying: “The Past is Prologue.”

– James A. Marples, Provo