When I left for work last Friday morning (12/17), I noticed there was a helicopter hanging around downtown Provo and thought it was a little weird. I had to stop by the store on the way to work, so I drove down University Avenue. Usually, I go up 9th East to get to work. As I got to University, I noticed smoke coming out of the Tabernacle, but it wasn't a ton, just some coming out the backside, like there was a small fire. The street was closed and I saw a bunch of fire trucks around the building. This was about 7:30 a.m. I didn't know the extent of the fire until I got to work and got right on KSL.com. I was shocked when I found out that the whole inside had burned and the roof had collapsed. It's so sad!
This amazing building was built in 1883 and I've been in it multiple times for Stake Conferences, firesides and Christmas productions. The most memorable night I was there was when Sheri Dew spoke a couple of years ago. It was so awesome.
It's been a hot topic of conversation around Utah County the past few days and it's so sad to drive by the skeleton that is left over. I'm surprised that I'm so sad about it, but I think it means more to me than just any other old building because I have felt the Spirit there and have had meaningful experiences. I know others feel the same. I stopped by around midnight on Friday night as I was heading home. I got out of my car and stood with a whole group of people in the rain and cold and just looked at this magnificent building. (There were still some flames inside). It means a lot to many, many people and I think we all have felt a loss.
I took a few photos, but only had my small camera with me, so I won't post the sub-par ones I got. Instead, I found these amazing ones online. Here's the credit for the people who took them.
2 - unknown, found in Google Images search
3 - unknown, found in Google Images search
4 - Ashley Franscell, Daily Herald website
5 - Laura Rowley, Daily Herald website
6 - Member a4gpa, found on Flickr
7 - Ashley Franscell, Daily Herald website
8 - David Daniels, dav.d photography
9 - David Daniels, dav.d photography
10 - unknown, found on CougarUteForum.com
11 - found on http://borskys.blogpot.com