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- Take A Tour | Preservation Utah
Preservation Utah provides numerous ways to explore and connect with Utah's history. Through the Preservation Utah Tours App, downloadable walking and driving tour guides, private tours of iconic landmarks, guided tours led by professional volunteer tour guides, and seasonal events, we make history accessible to everyone. Take a Tour Take a Tour Preservation Utah provides numerous ways to explore and connect with Utah's history. Through the Preservation Utah Tours App, downloadable walking and driving tour guides, private tours of iconic landmarks, guided tours led by professional volunteer tour guides, and seasonal events, we make history accessible to everyone. Tour App Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours School Tours Private Tours Historic Homes Tours Preservation Utah Tours App Discover Utah's history and culture with Preservation Utah’s tour app. Designed for self-guided experiences, our app offers an engaging way to explore historic sites, modern architecture, and charming heritage neighborhoods throughout the state. With user-friendly features and interactive maps, the app allows you to navigate at your own pace, choosing from various themed tours. Download the Preservation Utah Tour App today and start your adventure into the past! If you are not an app person, you can access all of our self-guided tours from our app here on the web . Visit the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store on your mobile device and search for 'Preservation Utah Tours' to download our app. We are making updates and adding new tours all the time, so be sure to update the app regularly. From the Archives: Self-Guided Tour Downloads We went into our archives and found these gems! ** Please note that many of our brochures are out of print. While we have a few remaining at our office, we cannot mail copies. ** These tours were produced from the 1970s to 2010s and while they contain some great information, these versions have not been updated and some items may be inaccurate. If you are looking for our latest and most up-to-date self-guided tours, please see our Preservation Utah Tour App information. Historic Buildings on Capitol Hill📄 Where can you explore historic buildings ranging from vernacular adobe houses to the monumental Utah State Capitol Building? Salt Lake City's Capitol Hill neighborhood is rich in Utah's history and has diverse architecture. This guide describes twenty-four buildings on Capitol Hill, including the popular Marmalade Historic District. It also includes a map and numerous sketches. Historic Downtown Salt Lake City📄 Did Salt Lake City have a Chinatown? Where can you find Art Deco-style buildings downtown? What is the oldest commercial building in the city? Find the answers to these questions and more in Preservation Utah's Historic Downtown Salt Lake City Walking Tour Guide. This forty-four-page guide with a map contains five one-hour walking tours, including a special tour of Main Street for kids ages nine - twelve. Read the story of Salt Lake City's settlement and downtown historic building growth. Historic South Temple Street📄 Since the city was first settled, South Temple has been Salt Lake City's most prestigious address. Today, walking along South Temple, you will see stately mansions, magnificent churches, and impressive clubhouses. Preservation Utah's Historic South Temple Street Walking Tour Guide describes 39 historic buildings from State Street to Virginia Street, provides a map, and includes numerous contemporary and historical photos. The tour takes approximately two hours to complete on foot. The guide also includes Time Travel on South Temple📄, a tour for kids ages nine to twelve. Modernism at the University of Utah📄 This walking tour, created in March 2015, explores the University of Utah's historic, modern architecture. Its introduction, "A New Era for University Architecture," describes fourteen buildings on the campus. The guide also includes a map and numerous sketches and photographs. Modernism on South Temple Street📄 Explore Salt Lake City's South Temple Street architectural legacy with Modernism on South Temple Street. This guide highlights the stunning examples of mid-century modern architecture along one of the city’s most historic streets. Featuring a collection of iconic buildings from the modernist era, the guide offers insight into these structures' unique design and cultural impact, showcasing Salt Lake City's evolution through its architectural history. Perfect for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike, this tour reveals the beauty and significance of South Temple’s modernist gems. Symbol of the City: The Salt Lake City & County Building📄 Take a tour of the exterior of the City & County Building and learn about the symbolism of the intricate carvings. Understanding the history of the City & County Building will deepen your appreciation for the history of Salt Lake City, Utah, and its people. Through the Eyes of Many Faiths📄 Learn about various religions through the architecture of their holy spaces. This book discusses sixteen different religions, their histories, and their churches. It is also packed with Utah history. Travel Guide to Utah History In 1972, Preservation Utah produced and published a travel booklet entitled "A Guide To 11 Tours of Utah Historic Sites." This booklet outlines driving tours of historic sites throughout Utah and explores Utah's landscape, history, and historic architecture. Download tours individually by clicking on the tour you want! Intro, Table of Contents, and Northern Utah Tour📄 Pioneer Trail, Wasatch Tour📄 Salt Lake City Tour📄 Mountain Valley Tour and Oquirrh Circle Tour📄 Skyline Drive, Sanpete Valley Tour📄 Great Basin, Sevier Desert Tour📄 Panorama Land Tour📄 St. George Circle Tour📄 Dixie, Pine Valley Tour📄 Painted Cliffs Tour and Index📄 Walking Tour of the University of Utah Presidents Circle📄 Explore the historic horseshoe of the University of Utah with this walking tour of Presidents Circle. This guide contains descriptions of ten buildings on Presidents Circle, a map, and numerous sketches. As this was produced in 1992 and has not been updated, some items may be inaccurate. Memory Grove Scavenger Hunt📄 Embark on a fun and interactive adventure through Memory Grove! Discover nine unique landmarks as you explore the park’s historic monuments with your family. This engaging scavenger hunt is a perfect way to combine history, nature, and quality time together. Private Tours Preservation Utah offers a unique opportunity to explore our state's history and culture through private tours. When requesting a private tour, it's important to note that while some locations offer complimentary access, others may have a nominal fee associated with them. These fees play a crucial role in supporting our nonprofit organization and allow us to continue our mission of preserving and promoting Utah's historical and cultural heritage. Each tour is designed to provide an enriching experience, and your contributions help ensure the ongoing success of our programming and operations. Locations Governor’s Mansion Tour - public and private tours are free Salt Lake City and County Building Tour - Private Tours are $5 per person, public tours are free Street Tours - South Temple and Main Street - private group tours are $20/person. We also host these tours regularly, and registration is available through our website here . Do you have other ideas or places you are interested in? Let us know, and we will explore the possibilities. All Other Private Tours are $20 per person. Requests To request a private tour, simply email our team at info@preservationutah.org and provide: preferred date (which must be at least two weeks before the requested date to allow time to coordinate with the location and tour guides), preferred time number of participants (minimum 10 to maximum 20) any special accessibility needs Dates and times are subject to the availability of tour guides and locations. Payment Payment is required to secure the tour reservation. The group coordinator will receive a payment link through our online payment platform. Cancellations Cancellations made at least seven days before the scheduled tour will receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than seven days before will forfeit the registration costs. Rescheduling requests will be accommodated based on availability. Guided Tours Take a guided tour of an historic landmark! Preservation Utah's friendly and knowledgeable volunteer tour guides illuminate history, architecture, and local lore on our tours. Tour and Event Calendar Third Thursday Tours Third Thursday tours are private educational tours of historic places held on the third Thursday of most months. Each month, the tour is held at a different location. Our Volunteer Council organizes the tours, available to Preservation Utah volunteers and members only. Learn more about volunteering. Learn more about membership. Meditation Chapel Tour At the base of City Creek Canyon lies Memory Grove Park, which Salt Lake City purchased in 1902. The Meditation Chapel is inside the park and is open to tour on the second Friday and the fourth Saturday of each month, April through October, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. (with a few special exceptions; check our events calendar to stay up to date ). This is a free walk-up tour—and no registration is required. It includes a tour of the chapel's interior (one small room) but does not include a tour of the rest of the park's monuments. McCune Mansion Historical Tours *Please do not contact the mansion directly for historical tours. Preservation Utah tours are the only way to experience historical tours of the McCune Mansion.* Completed in 1901 and restored in 2001, the McCune Mansion remains a Utah showplace. Alfred and Elizabeth McCune stopped keeping track of expenses after the costs for their “simple” bungalow on Capitol Hill reached $500,000. They imported roof tiles from Holland, rare white satin-grained mahogany from South America, and a room-sized mirror from Germany. The ceiling murals and decorative borders alone took an artist from New York two years to finish. Spend an hour touring the mansion from the first-floor octagonal reception room to the third-floor glittering ballroom. The Venetian marble bathroom alone is worth the tour! Who? - Tours are available to the general public. Registration is required. When? - Tours are held on the second Wednesday of April through October. Please visit our events calendar to reserve your ticket. Tours start at 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Each tour is one hour long and limited to 20 patrons. How Much? - Tours are $15 per person. Where? - The mansion is located at 200 North Main Street, Salt Lake City Additional Information Professional volunteers of Preservation Utah lead all tours of the McCune Mansion. All questions regarding historical tours should be directed to Preservation Utah or your on-site docent, not the McCune Mansion. Children may attend the tour; however, it is not recommended. If you feel your child or children will enjoy it, each child must be registered and pay the $15 fee. Babies-in-arms at all times are permitted and do not need to pay the registration fee. Pets are not allowed in the mansion. ADA Accommodations This tour is fully ADA-accessible. Service dogs are allowed in the building. Salt Lake City and County Building Tours The Salt Lake City and County Building is one of Salt Lake City's most beloved landmarks. Completed in 1894, the building is Utah's finest example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. Its history includes the Utah State Constitutional Convention, the trial of Joe Hill, and an infamous pumpkin (so they say). In the late 1980s, it became the first building in the world to be retrofitted with base isolators. During an earthquake, the building will gently float on 440 steel and rubber “slinkies.” Preservation Utah's one-hour guided tour of the City and County Building begins with the base isolators beneath the building and ends in the clock tower high above. Who? - Tours are open to the general public. Preservation Utah also offers free Educational Tours of the Salt Lake City and County Building designed for K-12 students. Where? - Meet your guide at the security desk on the second level. Parking is available at meters on the building's east, south, and west sides; various summer events at Washington Square may impact parking. Trax also stops northeast of the building at the Library Station. When? Preservation Utah offers free fifty-minute tours on the fourth Friday of April through November. Tours start at 9:30 a.m. Registration is required. Please visit our events calendar to reserve your ticket. How much? - Summer tours are free and open to the public. ADA Accommodations - Portions of this tour are not ADA accessible. Kearns (Utah Governor's) Mansion Tours The historic Kearns Mansion, with its beautiful Chateauesque exterior, stunning interior, and dramatic story of the Kearns family, is one of Utah's architectural treasures. Thomas Kearns made a fortune on the silver flowing out of Park City mines. He spared no expense in building a home that became the dazzling center of Utah's elite social life. A world-class restoration completed in 1996 restored the mansion to its original 1902 appearance. On a 45-minute guided tour of the Kearns Mansion's first floor, you can glimpse the gold-leafed dome and see Teddy Roosevelt's hat rack. Teachers, please visit our Educator Resources for additional tour opportunities. Historical Public Tour Schedule and Information: Who? The tours are open to the public, and online registration is required 24 hours before. However, this tour is NOT suitable for children under 7 years of age. Where? - The mansion is at 603 East South Temple, Salt Lake City. Please refer to your registration confirmation for additional details. When? The first Wednesday of April through November, at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. December tours showcase the mansion decorated for the season! The holiday tour times and days vary. Holiday reservations go live at 9 a.m. on November 1st each year and sell out quickly. How Much? Our Kearns Mansion tours are free, but REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Visit our events calendar to find a date and time. Additional Information A valid ID that matches the registration name is required for admittance. You may only register for a maximum of 8 tickets; if you need more, email info@preservationutah.org to schedule a private tour. Guests must arrive at the east gate five minutes before the tour begins. Each tour will be limited to 25 people. Each tour is 45 minutes. Please do not sit on furniture or touch items in the mansion. Guided Tours for Students Introduce students to the history of Salt Lake City with Preservation Utah's guided landmark tours! Perfect for fourth to seventh graders, these interactive experiences at the Kearns Mansion and the Salt Lake City and County Building are designed to engage and educate. Check out all of our educator resources. Experience Utah's architectural heritage, beauty, history, and charm with Preservation Utah's biannual Homes Tours. Each spring and fall, we invite you to step inside some of Utah’s most stunning historic residences, ranging from grand mansions to hidden architectural gems. These exclusive tours provide a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship, design, and stories that make these homes unique. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious, the tours offer an enriching way to connect with Utah's past while celebrating preservation efforts. Proceeds from the Homes Tours support Preservation Utah's mission to protect and promote the state’s architectural legacy. Join us this season and discover the timeless allure of Utah’s historic neighborhoods, one home at a time! Historic Homes Tour Historic Homes Tours
- For Property Owners | Preservation Utah
Discover how Preservation Utah supports historic property owners through easements, revolving loan funds, tax credits, and research resources. WELCOME PROPERTY OWNERS Easement Properties Information for owners of properties that have a Preservation Utah Easement. Revolving Loan Funds Information about how to apply for and what our Revolving Loan Fund will fund. Research a Place Information on how to research a historic building and space. Historic Tax Credits Information about how to apply for Historic Tax Credits. Easement Property Owners Proposal for Alteration Form Alteration Review Process for Easement Properties The preservation easements that we hold require that any alterations to the building exterior, property, or interior if included in your easement, be reviewed beforehand and approved by the Historic Properties Committee. Owners need to contact the Historic Properties Program Manager at the start of their project development. What criteria does the Preservation Utah Historic Properties Committee use to evaluate proposed alterations? Specific stipulations in the easement document for the property. If you do not have a copy of the preservation easement for your property, we will be happy to send you one. The most recent Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. The Standards are a nationally recognized and widely used tool for ensuring that alterations do not jeopardize the historic integrity of a building. Download the Standards and refer to them when planning any project that impacts the exterior of your building. How does the Historic Properties Committee apply these criteria? Each easement is unique to each property, and the Historic Properties Committee tightly adheres to the specific stipulations in each easement document. For your property's documentation, contact our Historic Properties Program Manager at (801) 533-0858 or historicproperties @ preservationutah.org. The committee strictly applies the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation to proposed alterations involving a property's character-defining features and areas visible from public ways. The committee may allow more flexibility in altering non-character defining or non-historic features in areas not visible to the public. What information must I submit to the Historic Properties Committee or staff to have my plans reviewed? Easement property owners should begin the alteration process by reviewing and submitting this form . Information submitted through the form includes: Contact details (property address; owner name, email, and phone; architect/contractor name, email, and phone). Detailed drawings of proposed changes: Preservation Utah reserves the right to require architectural drawings when necessary. A site plan sketch showing the impact of the proposed alterations on the site. List of building materials, including s ample materials or product literature, if appropriate or requested. Construction timetable. Photos of the project area. Indications of whether you intend to utilize state or federal historic rehabilitation tax credits. Information is accepted via email; photos and drawings must be clearly scanned. Contact our Historic Properties Program Manager at (801) 533-0858 or historicproperties@preservationutah.org . Documents should be in PDF format, and photos in .jpg or .png format. Preservation Utah does not return documents or photographs submitted, so please make copies for your records. When must I submit this information? It is imperative that easement property owners obtain the approval of the Historic Properties Committee before beginning work on their project. The Historic Properties Committee meets monthly. To consider your project, submit the abovementioned information two weeks before the scheduled meeting date. This will allow time for staff to review the information and request any additional materials the Historic Properties Committee will need to make a decision about your project. Please contact the Preservation Utah office for a schedule of Historic Properties Committee meetings. Exceptions to this schedule will be made for emergencies that immediately threaten the property. When will I be notified of the Historic Properties Committee’s decision regarding my project? The property owner will be notified in writing of the Historic Properties Committee’s decision within two weeks of the meeting at which the project was reviewed. What follow-up documentation is required? After the Historic Properties Committee approves a project and it is completed, the property owner must submit photos documenting that the project was completed according to the approved plans. Is there anyone else I need to contact about my project? You should contact your city's historic preservation or landmark commission if you live within a local historic district. Local historic districts often have regulations governing the alterations that can be made to historic buildings in their boundaries. Please consult your municipality to inquire whether your historic property falls under local ordinances or requires additional review. If you wish to apply for federal or state historic rehabilitation tax credits, consult the Utah Division of State History’s Preservation Office before beginning your project. They can be reached at (801) 533-3500. Is this legally enforceable? In the event an easement property owner makes an alteration to the exterior of their property without Preservation Utah's approval, the easement documents empower Preservation Utah to pursue a variety of legal measures to rectify the violation, including: Requiring the restoration of the property to its condition before the violation. Entering the property, correcting the violation, and holding the owner liable for the costs. Recovering damages for the violation to restore the property. For questions about the alteration review process, contact our Historic Properties Program Manager at (801) 533-0858 or historicproperties @ preservationutah.org . Up Revolving Loan Funds Preservation Utah's mission is to preserve, protect, and promote Utah's historic built environment through public awareness, advocacy, and active preservation. We provide financial resources to stimulate historic preservation activities through our Revolving Loan Fund Program for the rehabilitation of historic properties. Loan applications are approved based on several criteria, including loan funds availability, property eligibility, owners credit, and the proposed renovation's historical appropriateness. Property Eligibility A property must be at least 50 years old and retain its architectural integrity to qualify (a good rule of thumb: would the original owner recognize the building today?). The property needs to also meet one of the following criteria: It is listed on, or is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). It is listed on a local register of historic or cultural resources. It is eligible to be a contributing building within a local or national historic district. How will I qualify to receive a loan? The borrower(s) must have a credit history demonstrating the ability to make regular monthly loan payments and income adequate to repay the funds loaned. Funds are available to individuals regardless of race, handicap, age, color, religion, gender, national origin, or familial status. Corporations, partnerships, and nonprofit and religious organizations are eligible to apply for funds (religious organizations, please contact our staff as available funding may have restrictions). What are the terms and interest rates of the loans? Our loans offer low monthly payments based on a 20-year amortization schedule. However, the loan term is five years, with a balloon payment of the remaining principal and interest due at the end of the fifth year. When the loan application is approved, the interest rate is fixed at ½ of the prime interest rate. For example, if the prime interest rate is 6%, our interest rate is fixed at 3%. What improvements can be made using the loan funds? Loan funds can be used for restoration, rehabilitation, repair, and project-related costs, such as engineering services, architect's fees, and permits. The first priority for funding is exterior improvements, including brick, chimneys, doors, foundations, masonry, and porches, reconstructing existing additions, roofs, seismic retrofitting, siding repair, and windows. The second priority for funding is interior systems, including code compliance, electrical systems, heating, insulation, and plumbing. The third priority for funding is interior finishes. For example, Preservation Utah will not fund a kitchen remodel if the roof needs to be repaired. However, a kitchen or bathroom remodel can be funded if incorporated into a more comprehensive rehabilitation project. Are there any restrictions on how I use the loan funds? Funds may not be used for concrete pads (parking, patio, etc.), fences, incompatible materials, inappropriate rehabilitation techniques, landscaping, new construction, completed projects, refinancing existing mortgages, or retaining walls. Funding requests for work in progress will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. How long is the application process? When Loan Applications are received throughout the year, the Historic Properties Committee reviews them at regular monthly meetings. The entire application process takes about 45 days (this is not a set timeline; each situation is different and may require more time). How do I start the application process? Submit the Revolving Loan Fund Inquiry Form . Once we receive this form, the Historic Properties Program Manager will determine whether your property qualifies to receive funding from the Revovling Fund Loan Program. If it does, you will receive a follow-up letter outlining the work items discussed, the funding sources, amounts, terms available to you, and instructions for submitting a Loan Application. What information do I have to provide to complete a loan application? If you are interested and project qualifies for funding and you decide to apply for a loan, you must provide the information listed below. A complete checklist of items will be provided when you schedule your loan application appointment. RF Loan Program Application: The required 4-page application is completed with the assistance of the Historic Properties Program Manager. Historical Information: If available, you must submit information to verify the historic significance of the property being renovated with the loan funds. Statement of Property Value: You must submit a copy of an appraisal, purchase agreement, or property tax assessment record issued within the previous 12 months. Description of Work: The application must accompany a written description of the work for which Preservation Utah funding is sought. In addition, construction drawings detailing the proposed improvements may be required. Photographs of the Property: Photographs showing the current condition of all sides of the building and details of problem areas must be submitted. Bids from Licensed Contractors: Copies of bids from currently licensed contractors for all proposed improvements must be submitted. Personal and Financial Information: You must provide your current employment, income, assets, and liabilities. Non-refundable Application Fee: A $75.00 non-refundable application fee is due when your Loan Application is prepared. What does the Historic Properties Committee consider when it reviews a loan application? The Historic Properties Committee uses criteria which include, but are not limited to: The proposed project's appropriateness and compatibility with the historic building's character. The architectural or historical significance of the property. The financial strength of the application. The geographic distribution of current and proposed projects. The project's potential effect on the surrounding neighborhood and community. The availability of funds. How do I know if my application is approved? All applicants receive written notification of the Historic Properties Committee's recommendation within ten (10) business days following the meeting at which their application is considered. If a positive recommendation is forwarded, it is provided to Preservation Utah's Board of Trustees for final review. The Board of Trustees makes the final decision, and a recommendation does not guarantee approval. For more information, contact the Historic Properties Program Manager Up Revolving Loan Fund Inquiry Form Revolving Fund Loan Application Research a Place There are many ways to begin researching your property. The resources listed below are some ways to get started. Check to see whether the property has already been documented. A great start is the Utah Historical Society . and the Utah State Historic Preservation Office . If your property has not been documented previously, then you should check the following sources for information: County Recorder's Office provides all the transactions involving your property, including when it was probably built, noting the date, names of buyers and sellers, dollar amounts, and types of transactions. Note: you will need the legal description of the property to do this research, not simply the address. Getting property owners' names through this research, though sometimes difficult, is key to creating a solid history of your house. Older Sanborn Maps can be found online at the Marriott Library digital collections site . These fire insurance maps were drawn for over 75 communities in the state, many as early as the late 1880s, and were updated periodically as late as 1969. The maps show each building on the principal blocks in the community, and they are color-coded to indicate construction materials, height, and other features. Building Permit Registers provide the date the permit was issued, the address of the property, the estimated cost of construction, a brief description of the building, the name of the owner, and sometimes the names of the architect and builder. Many Utah communities' newspapers are on microfilm and are available online in the Utah Digital Newspapers . Architects File includes information about many of the architects and builders in Utah and lists of some of the buildings they designed or constructed. Architectural drawings of historic buildings are rare since formally schooled architects only individually designed most houses. Even the works of many of Utah's prominent architects are unavailable. The best collection of historic architectural drawings is at the U of U Marriott Library Special Collections. These are organized under each architect's name, so you must determine who the architect of your house is before you begin searching for specific drawings. Researching your property can be a time-consuming process. If you would like to hire a professional, check out our Preservation Directory . Up Tax Credits Federal Tax Credits for Commercial Properties The Utah State Historic Preservation Office administers the federal investment tax credit program. Qualifying projects must be listed on the National Register of Historic Places within three years of starting the project, plan for work to be done that will meet the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, and will meet an adjusted basis formula to determine eligibility. If all criteria are met, the owner qualifies for a federal tax credit of 20% of the total rehabilitation costs on that project. State Tax Credits for Residential Properties The Utah State Historic Preservation Office administers the state tax credit program. Qualifying projects must be listed on the National Register of Historic Places within three years of starting the project, plan for work to be done that will meet the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation, and spend a minimum of $10,000. If all criteria are met, the owner qualifies for a state tax credit of 20% of the total rehabilitation costs on that project. Up
- Historic Home Tours | Preservation Utah
We choose different historic neighborhoods each spring and fall to highlight the history and community that built them. Historic Home Tours Each Spring and Fall we choose different neighborhoods to highlight the history and community that built them. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture buff, or simply curious about the stories behind these iconic homes, our Historic Homes Tours promise an enriching experience that celebrates the heritage and cultural significance of neighborhoods. About Historic Home Tours For over 50 years, our Home Tours have allowed the public to see how historic buildings can be brought into the comfort of the 21st century while maintaining the historic character and charm only historic buildings can provide. With the permission and generosity of the building owners, tours open privately owned buildings to the public and volunteers guide the public, offering historical and educational information about various aspects of the buildings. See Our Year Round Tours Save the Date Fall - October 18th Sponsor the Fall Homes Tour Kletting in the Avenues - May 17 Step into history with Preservation Utah’s Spring Homes Tour: Kletting in the Avenues, celebrating the architectural legacy of Richard Kletting, one of Utah’s most prolific designers. This year’s tour showcases four to five homes designed by Kletting in Salt Lake City’s Avenues neighborhood—each a testament to his mastery of form, function, and elegance.
- Volunteer | Preservation Utah
Volunteers lead public and K-12 education tours and programs, offering valuable insights into the history and significance of Utah's historic buildings and neighborhoods. Volunteer With Us Interested in getting involved? Contact our team to learn more. Volunteer Program Overview Volunteers lead public and K-12 education tours and programs, offering valuable insights into the history and significance of Utah's historic buildings and neighborhoods. Through their dedication and efforts, volunteers help Preservation Utah achieve its mission to protect, preserve, and promote Utah's historic built environment. Volunteer Opportunities Historic Building Tours Salt Lake City & County Building Public tours Fridays from 9:30 am to 10: 30 am Private tours vary Monday-Friday between 9 am and 5 pm Kearns (Utah Governor's) Mansion Public tours Wednesdays between 1 pm to 4 pm Private tours vary Monday-Friday between 9 am and 5 pm Meditation Chapel in Memory Grove Park Fridays and Saturdays from 11 am to 1 pm and during various special events McCune Mansion Wednesdays 10 am to noon Historic Homes Tours This Years Tours House Managers and Guides We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers to serve as house managers and guides for our historic home tours in the spring and fall. As a thank-you, all volunteers receive a free ticket to the tour! Contact Our Team to Get Involved Historic Street Tours Guiding tours exploring local history (Main Street, South Temple, Pubs, etc.) Typically held on Saturdays Contact Us to Learn More Additional Volunteer Roles Office Help Providing administrative support and assisting with historical research. Scheduled when works with volunteers' time Monday-Friday between 9 am and 5 pm Tabling Events Representing Preservation Utah at community events and providing information to the public. Scheduling depends on when the events are scheduled. Special Events Assisting with the planning and executing events such as galas and flag ceremonies. Scheduling depends on when the events are scheduled. Volunteer Benefits Build your knowledge of architecture and learn the benefits of renovating and restoring historic built environments. Make new friends with common interests. On-going training opportunities. Frequent access to private tours not otherwise open to the public. An annual Volunteer Appreciation Party. Exclusive invitations to Third Thursday Tours Third Thursday tours are private educational tours of historic places held on the third Thursday of most months. Each month, the tour is held at a different location. Our Volunteer Council organizes the tours, available to Preservation Utah volunteers and members only. 2025 Third Thursday Tours Calendar January: No Third Thursday Tour February 20: Westmoreland Place , 1300 S 1500 E, SLC March 20: at 9 AM State Capitol , 350 State St, SLC April 17: Union Pacific Depot /Asher Adams, 2 S 400 W, SLC May: Spring Homes Tour, No Third Thursday Tour June: Appreciation Party, No Third Thursday Tour July 17: Westmoreland Place, SLC August 21: Eccles Art Center , 2580 Jefferson Ave, Ogden September 18: Memory Grove Park, buildings, and monuments, 375 N Canyon Rd, SLC October 16: Fall Homes Tour, No Third Thursday Tour November 20: Jane's Home , 1229 East South Temple, SLC December: No Third Thursday Tour Please Note: All tours start at 10 am unless otherwise specified. Everyone is invited to join lunch afterward; everyone buys their own. Click on the tour place in the list to visit its website and learn more about the place and its location. Please do not contact the location to RSVP; space is limited, and RSVP is required. RSVP
- Preservation Month | Preservation Utah
In 2005, the National Trust for Historic Preservation extended its week-long celebration of preservation to the entire month of May and declared it Preservation Month to promote historic places, heritage tourism, and the social and economic benefits of historic preservation. Celebrate National Preservation Month! Why Preservation Month? - In 2005, the National Trust for Historic Preservation extended its week-long preservation celebration to May and declared it Preservation Month to promote historic places, heritage tourism, and the social and economic benefits of historic preservation. Preservation Month in Utah: The Power of Place There’s no denying the vital role preservation plays in protecting Utah’s historic spaces while meeting the needs of our communities today and for generations to come. This May, for Preservation Month, we’re celebrating the power of place—and the countless ways, big and small, that preservation makes a difference across our state. Join us in Harnessing the Power of Place! From the heart of Salt Lake City to the rural landscapes all over Utah, preservation strengthens our communities, breathes new life into historic neighborhoods, and ensures that the stories of our past continue to shape our future. This work supports a more sustainable planet, fosters deeper connections, and builds a more just and vibrant society. Preservation Month is your chance to highlight why this work matters. It’s an opportunity to share the impact we’re making together—how the places we protect spark joy, inspire wonder, and connect us all through Utah's deep and diverse history. 5/2/25 Murray Museum: Cahoon Mansion Grand Opening Murray City is hosting the grand opening of the Cahoon Mansion , a newly restored historic landmark and this year’s Community Stewardship Awardee . Built between 1899 and 1903, this Victorian gem has been transformed into a modern museum while preserving its architectural beauty. View More 5/7/25 Governors Mansion Tours A beautiful Chateauesque exterior, a stunning interior, and the dramatic story of the Kearns family make the historic Kearns Mansion one of Utah 's architectural treasures. View More 5/10/25 Preserve Memory Grove: Annual Cleanup Day Join Preservation Utah and community members in our ongoing efforts to protect and maintain Memory Grove Park, a cherished historic and natural landmark in Salt Lake City. Volunteers are needed to help with weeding, mulching, tree trimming, and clearing debris to ensure this special place remains beautiful and reflective. View More 5/14/25 McCune Mansion Historic Tours Spend an hour touring this elaborate historic mansion with Preservation Utah's guides and learn about the history of this 1901 Utah showplace. *Please do not contact the mansion directly for historical tours. Preservation Utah is the only one that provides historical tours of the McCune Mansion.* View More 5/21/25 Lecture: Zions Follies: A History of Drag in Utah, 1871-2021 Experience the Untold History of Drag in Utah! From frontier stages to ward houses, Utah’s drag history is as bold and surprising as the state itself. Discover the hidden stories of performers who shaped the cultural landscape—from Brigham Young’s 17th son performing Italian opera in drag to traveling drag shows captivating small-town audiences in the 1920s. Join us for a fascinating deep dive into 150 years of drag in Utah, where tradition and transformation collide. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the resilience, artistry, and legacy of drag in the Beehive State! View More 5/24/25 Historic Window Restoration Workshop Join us for a hands-on, three-day workshop where you’ll learn the art and craft of historic window restoration—while helping bring a Salt Lake City landmark back to life. View More 5/26/25 Memorial Day Meditation Chapel Tour At the base of City Creek Canyon lies Memory Grove Park, which Salt Lake City purchased in 1902. The Meditation Chapel is inside the park. This is a free walk-up tour—and no registration is required. It includes a tour of the chapel's interior (one small room). View More 5/31/25 Morgan Front Street Festival Mark your calendars for a day of non-stop fun on Commercial Street, also known as Front Street by locals, where history meets celebration! View More 5/3/25 The Gilded Age of East South Temple, A Walking Tour Come explore East South Temple where extravagant mansions were built by mining magnates during Salt Lake City's Gilded Age. Learn the rich history of this valley and the tensions that arose between the early pioneer settlers and the emerging class of wealthy tycoons. Their legendary stories still resonate in Salt Lake City today. View More 5/7/25 Utah SHPO Brown Bag Webinar: Utah History Made Easy Searching for an easy (and free) way to learn more about the beautiful historic buildings in every Utah city and town? The Utah State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has you covered! View More 5/10/25 Meditation Chapel Tour At the base of City Creek Canyon lies Memory Grove Park, which Salt Lake City purchased in 1902. The Meditation Chapel is inside the park. This is a free walk-up tour—and no registration is required. It includes a tour of the chapel's interior (one small room). View More 5/17/25 Kletting in the SLC Avenues Step into history with Preservation Utah’s Spring Homes Tour: Kletting in the Avenues, celebrating the architectural legacy of Richard Kletting, one of Utah’s most prolific designers. This year’s tour showcases four to five homes designed by Kletting in Salt Lake City’s Avenues neighborhood—each a testament to his mastery of form, function, and elegance. View More 5/23/25 Iosepa Memorial Weekend Celebration Join the Utah Historical Society at the Iosepa Memorial Weekend Celebration to learn about the "NHPI communities of Utah Oral History Project." View More 5/24/25 Spring City Historic Homes Tour Whether you come for the historic homes, the art squared auction, or the festival atmosphere… we look forward to seeing you in Spring City! View More 5/31/25 Meyer Gallery Anniversary Exhibition Meyer Gallery will mark six decades as a cornerstone of Park City’s art scene with a special exhibition, “A Legacy of Art: 60 Years of Meyer Gallery,” opening Friday, May 30, from 6 to 9 p.m. at its historic Main Street location in Park City. View More 5/6/25 Lecture: Richard Kletting In the Avenues Bring your lunch and Kick off our Spring Homes Tour, Kletting in the Avenues , with a fascinating lecture on the legacy of Richard Kletting, one of Utah’s most prolific and influential architects. Join local historian Nan Weber, and historical architect Allen Roberts—who are currently writing a book on Kletting—for an in-depth look at his remarkable career. This lecture offers a unique glimpse into the man behind more than 22 homes in the Avenues, as well as iconic public buildings such as the Utah State Capitol, the original Salt Palace, and the Saltair Resort Pavilion. View More 5/9/25 Meditation Chapel Tour At the base of City Creek Canyon lies Memory Grove Park, which Salt Lake City purchased in 1902. The Meditation Chapel is inside the park. This is a free walk-up tour—and no registration is required. It includes a tour of the chapel's interior (one small room). View More 5/14/25 Utah SHPO Brown Bag Webinar: Preservation Power-Up – Engaging More People, More Passion Join our live webinar to discover practical ways to boost community engagement in preservation projects in your town. Our speaker, Brandy Strand, Director of Preservation Utah, will share proven strategies using real examples from Utah that show how Utahns are getting involved in protecting our shared history. View More 5/21/25 Preserving Utah’s Cemeteries lecture given by Amy Barry Utah’s first cemetery was established in Salt Lake City in 1847. As the population spread throughout the state so did the need for burial grounds. Most Utah communities still maintain their cemeteries that date back to the mid to late 1800s. View More 5/23/25 Salt Lake City and County Building Tour This is one of Salt Lake City's most beloved landmarks. Completed in 1894, the building is Utah's finest example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. This one-hour guided tour begins with the base isolators beneath the building and ends in the clock tower high above. View More 5/24/25 Meditation Chapel Tour At the base of City Creek Canyon lies Memory Grove Park, which Salt Lake City purchased in 1902. The Meditation Chapel is inside the park. This is a free walk-up tour—and no registration is required. It includes a tour of the chapel's interior (one small room). View More 5/31/25 “Other Side” SLC History Tour The history of Salt Lake City can be weird, heartbreaking, and surprising. Join us to learn about the unseen history of our beautiful city by exploring the places and lives of everyday people at the turn of the last century. In this 2 hour leisurely walking tour we will explore the economic and racial diversity of our past. View More
- Membership | Preservation Utah
Joining Preservation Utah means more than just being a member. You are also making a statement that preserving Utah’s history and cultural resources is your priority. About Preservation Utah Membership Joining Preservation Utah means more than just being a member. You are also making a statement that preserving Utah’s history and cultural resources is your priority. Most importantly, your membership dollars stay in our state and work for Utah communities and residents. *We leverage the Zeffy platform for our membership program. This free software for nonprofits ensures that every dollar raised through our membership efforts directly supports Preservation Utah and our mission. Membership Options Senior/Student Membership $25.00 Individual Membership $35.00 Family Membership $50.00 Donor Membership $250.00 Advocate Membership $500.00 Preservation Champion Membership $1,000.00 Membership Benefits Subscription to Monthly E-News and Advocacy Alerts Discounts for Historic Homes and Modern Homes Tour tickets Invitations to private tours held throughout the year Partner Businesses Kings English - 10% discount Rimini Coffee - 5% discount Memorial House Rentals - 10% discount for Donor, Advocate, and Preservation Champion members Preservation Champion Member Recognition on the Preservation Utah website, in the Annual Report, and in our monthly e-newsletter. Preservation Champion Members receive exclusive VIP invitations to special events/tours. JOIN US After completing your membership, you will receive an automatically generated membership card from Zeffy. You must show this card to participating businesses to receive discounts. Membership begins when your payment is received and is good for one calendar year from the date of purchase. If you are unsure of your current membership status or have any questions regarding Preservation Utah membership, contact us at info@preservationutah.org As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, all donations to Preservation Utah are tax-deductible. After payment is processed, members will receive a receipt for their records. We encourage all donors and supporters to consult with their accountant or financial advisor to understand the tax implications of their contributions and ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Proudly Preserving Utah's Heritage Together
- Preservation Utah | preservation advocacy | 375 North Canyon Road, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
At Preservation Utah, we envision a state where preserving historic buildings and spaces is integral to community life. Our work ensures that cities, towns, and neighborhoods honor the diverse stories of all Utahns—urban and rural, Indigenous and immigrant—who find identity and connection in the places we protect. Through education, advocacy, and support, we empower citizens, property owners, and local governments across Utah to actively preserve the state’s heritage. PRESERVATION UTAH Our Mission Keep the past alive, not only for preservation, but to inspire and provoke a more creative present and sustainable future. Join Us Donate Memorial House Since 1994, Preservation Utah has managed and operated Memorial House. Proceeds from Memorial House’s rental fees support our work and impact statewide preservation efforts. Learn More We envision a Utah where preserving historic buildings and spaces is a fundamental pillar of community life. With your support, we can continue to make a meaningful impact. Volunteer Preservation Directory Low Interest Loans Take A Tour Preservation Directory Low Interest Loans Take a Tour Educator Resources For Property Owners News Educators Property Owners News Our Story Read More Get to Know Us Preservation Utah is all about keeping Utah’s history alive and thriving! Since 1966, we’ve been on a mission to protect the places that tell our stories and give our neighborhoods their unique charm. From saving iconic landmarks like the Salt Lake City & County Building to sparking new life in Main Streets across the state, we’re proof that preservation isn’t just about the past—it’s about shaping a creative, vibrant, and sustainable future. Whether we’re restoring historic gems, hosting community events, or rallying for preservation-friendly policies, we’re here to celebrate Utah! Contact Us Mailing Address 375 North Canyon Road Salt Lake City, Utah 84103 Phone : 801-533-0858 Hours Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
- ENTELEN Design-Build, LLC | Preservation Utah
< Back ENTELEN Design-Build, LLC Contact Jonathan Burt 801-599-0955 jaburt@entelen.com Year Established 2000 Services Architects and Designers, General Contractors Website About ENTELEN Design-Build, LLC has an extensive portfolio of historic restoration and seismic stabilization projects, demonstrating our expertise in preserving and strengthening historic structures while maintaining their architectural significance. With over 25 years of experience, we have successfully completed numerous high-profile historic restoration projects for government entities, municipalities, and preservation agencies. Our firm is recognized for its ability to navigate the complexities of working with historic buildings, utilizing best practices in restoration, stabilization, and preservation. Our deep understanding of historic structures enables us to execute projects with precision, ensuring compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation while incorporating modern structural solutions that extend the longevity of these buildings. Our past projects showcase our ability to integrate specialized historic restoration methods, including masonry stabilization, timber reinforcement, decorative plaster restoration, and non-invasive seismic retrofitting. We have built a strong reputation for working within budget constraints while delivering projects on time and to the highest standards of craftsmanship. Service Description We provide Architectural Design, Construction Management and General Contractor Construction Services Previous Next
- Architectural Resources Group | Preservation Utah
< Back Architectural Resources Group Contact Kitty Vieth 415-421-1680 ARGSFInfo@argcreate.com Year Established 1980 Services Architects and Designers, Conservators Website About We are architects, planners, and conservators who believe in the value that history adds to modern life. With an appreciation for the past and an eye towards the future, ARG has pioneered many innovative conservation techniques through research, development, and implementation. Headquartered in San Francisco, ARG has additional offices in Los Angeles, California and Portland, Oregon. We have architects licensed in AZ, CA, HI, ID, NM, NV, OR, TX, UT, and WA. Service Description Preservation Restoration Rehabilitation Programming Adaptive Reuse Seismic Strengthening New Design Sustainable Design Universal Access Design Building Assessments Feasibility Analysis Construction Administration Interior Design Master Planning Documentation Tools Previous Next
- Hagen Historical Consulting | Preservation Utah
< Back Hagen Historical Consulting Contact Delia Hagen, PhD 406-360-0120 deliahagen@yahoo.com Year Established 2004 Services Consultants Website About I provide history, architectural history, cultural resources, and historic preservation consulting. Historic contexts/MPDs, NRHP/NHL nominations, HABS/HAER, surveys, heritage interpretation, and special historical studies. Service Description Previous Next
- The Benson Gristmill | Preservation Utah
The Benson Gristmill 325 Pole Canyon Rd, Stansbury Park, 84074 Tooele 1854 Details National Register? Yes, 1972 Architect Builder Thomas Lee Year Built 1854 Accessible? Yes Current Threats The 171-year-old Benson Grist Mill faces several pressing threats due to age, deferred maintenance, and increasing public interest. Structurally, the building shows signs of deterioration, including multiple holes in the flooring currently covered with plywood, a cracked foundation window, and the need for a full floor evaluation and repair. The historic waterwheel and pump are in disrepair and require paint, sealant, and mechanical fixes. At the same time, the bucket hoist rope must be replaced, and the emergency fire suppressant system inspected and possibly maintained. Without careful preservation efforts, greater foot traffic could stress the mill’s aging structural components, including its wooden floors and intricate gear systems. Furthermore, the site lacks interpretive elements acknowledging its connections to the California Trail and the Indigenous peoples who used the spring for thousands of years, leaving significant aspects of its history unrecognized. Without immediate investment in preservation and interpretation, the Benson Grist Mill is at risk of further degradation and losing an invaluable historic resource. History In September 1849, the first settlers arrived in Utah’s Tooele Valley. While seeking reliable water power sources, they selected a site on Twin Springs Creek, where a sawmill—later known as Benson’s Saw Mill—was constructed by the spring of 1851. Though eventually destroyed, the sawmill began a vital industrial hub at a spring producing 3,000 gallons of water per hour. By 1854, a grist mill was constructed nearby under the direction of Thomas Lee, who was hired by a church corporation that included Apostle Ezra Taft Benson, Benjamin Crosland, and John Rowberry. The mill was part of Brigham Young’s broader vision to establish an industrial center in the region, alongside a woolen mill (now in ruins), a shoe mill, and adobe home manufacturing. The grist mill played an essential economic role for the community, grinding wheat and corn for nearly a century. Ownership of the mill reflected larger economic trends in Utah: initially part of a church cooperative, it became privately owned by Benson in 1866, later returned to church control in the 1870s, and by 1900 was operated by the Richville Milling Company. In 1922, J. Reuben Clark Jr. purchased the mill, attempting commercial flour production. However, the small-scale operation could not compete with larger mills statewide. In 1936, a hammer mill was installed to grind livestock feed, a function the mill served until it ceased operations in 1960. Architectural changes accompanied these evolving functions. A northern addition was completed before 1922, followed shortly by a front shed and a gas motor to supplement water power. Though the motor was removed in 1936, these modifications illustrate the mill’s continuous adaptation to new technologies and uses. The Benson Grist Mill is one of the oldest surviving pioneer-era structures in western Utah. Travelers have long regarded it as one of the most significant historic landmarks between Salt Lake City and Reno, Nevada. The mill’s long period of operation and successive adaptations reflect a broader story of Utah’s industrial development, religious cooperation, and community entrepreneurship. After falling into disrepair in the mid-20th century, the site was saved through community action. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, its exterior walls were rebuilt, and it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1983, a volunteer committee restored the mill piece by piece. Today, Tooele County manages the mill and the surrounding park. The site has become a community gathering space, with gardens and relocated pioneer cabins offering insight into 19th-century life. The Benson Grist Mill remains a unique and little-known landmark where visitors can experience Utah’s pioneer legacy, industrial ingenuity, geological richness, and layered human history. With thoughtful stewardship, it can become an even more meaningful site of education and heritage for both residents and national visitors. What can be done? Advocates can help raise awareness by sharing the mill’s story, promoting its historical significance, and supporting its inclusion in California Trail interpretation initiatives. Community members can attend public meetings, support local funding efforts, and encourage government leaders to prioritize preservation. Whether through hands-on service, advocacy, or financial support, individuals and organizations can help secure the future of this unique and irreplaceable historic site.
- The Western Center for the Conservation of Fine Arts | Preservation Utah
< Back The Western Center for the Conservation of Fine Arts Contact (303) 573-1973 wccfa@wccfa.com Year Established Services Conservators Website About WCCFA has been providing art conservation services to the public and private sectors for 30 years. Our clients include numerous museums, galleries and other public institutions, as well artists, private clients and corporations throughout the country. We are committed to a total care and preventive conservation approach. We offer public lectures, seminars, and workshops focusing on proper care, handling, storage, and examination techniques, with the intention to educate the public and museum professionals about the field of art conservation as well as the great benefits of minimizing damage and deterioration to their artworks. Service Description WCCFA offers examination of artworks to determine condition and to provide treatment proposals and cost estimates. Consultation and planning on collection maintenance and environmental control, storage, handling, and shipping. On-site conservation for non-transportable artworks. Emergency services (flood and fire damage, etc.) Coordination and interpretation of technical materials analysis. Lectures, seminars, and workshops on art conservation including care and awareness training available to fine arts professionals, museum staff, and concerned individuals. On-site surveys of collections to assess the condition of specific artworks, the environment, storage and the general facility in order to prioritize conservation and preservation needs. Previous Next