First Presbyterian Church, Salt Lake City

The First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City stands as a distinguished landmark among Utah’s historic religious sites. Founded in 1871, it is one of the oldest non-Mormon churches in the region. Initially, the congregation gathered in a building at the corner of Second South and Second East from 1874 until 1905. The current structure, an impressive Gothic Revival edifice designed by architect Walter E. Ware, was completed in 1905, reflecting architectural influences from England’s Carlisle Cathedral.

The church’s red sandstone facade, sourced from nearby Red Butte Canyon, gives it a unique, striking appearance among the Salt Lake City skyline. Equally captivating are the church's large stained-glass windows, created by R.T. Giles and Company of Minneapolis, which were installed in 1905. These intricate artworks depict scenes such as “The Empty Tomb,” “Christ in the Manger,” and “Christ in Gethsemane.” Inside, the original Bennett organ, first played by celebrated organist Clarence Eddy in 1906, adds to the building’s historical significance.

Through the years, the church has undergone several modifications, including a major renovation in 1956 and a full restoration in 2003. Its importance has been formally recognized, earning a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 as part of the South Temple Historic District. It also holds Entry No. 323 on the American Presbyterian/Reformed Historic Sites Registry.

An interesting historical footnote, Professor John M. Coyner established The Collegiate Institute—a college preparatory program—in the basement of the original church building in 1875. This institution eventually evolved into Westminster College, an enduring educational legacy of the First Presbyterian Church community.