Preservation Utah, in partnership with Salt of the Earth, invites the community to join in the restoration of one of Salt Lake City’s architectural treasures – the 5th Ward Meetinghouse. On October 12th, from 10 AM to 2 PM, volunteers will help clean up and sort bricks at 740 South 300 West, marking the first step in returning this historic building to its former glory.

Community Brick Sorting Event: During the event, participants will assist in sorting bricks into usable and unusable piles. These bricks will be crucial in reconstructing the building’s original 1910 design. Volunteers will also help clear debris from the site into dumpsters.

A New Future for a Historic Building: Restoring the 5th Ward Meetinghouse is about more than preserving history. Salt of the Earth aims to create a space that will continue to serve the community. The building’s classrooms will be converted into transitional housing. Salt of the Earth will provide ongoing support with job placement, housing assistance, and self-help programs, creating a bridge to stability for these individuals. The historic chapel will also remain a bookable venue for community events, weddings, and more, ensuring the building’s legacy as a community hub.

A History of Resilience: The 5th Ward Meetinghouse was built in 1910 and has stood as a testament to Salt Lake City’s history. Earlier this year, the building suffered an unauthorized partial demolition by a wrecking crew, a shocking act that city officials halted. Despite this setback, Preservation Utah and Salt of the Earth are committed to restoring the building and protecting its place in the community.