Independence Temple Lot

In obedience to revelation (Doctrine and Covenants 57:1–3), eight elders assembled on August 3, 1831, and Sidney Rigdon dedicated the ground where the city of Zion is to stand. Joseph Smith then placed a stone at the northeast corner of the contemplated temple in the name of the Lord. Afterwards, Sidney Rigdon “pronounced this spot of ground wholly dedicated unto the Lord forever.” This was the first site the Church dedicated for a temple. For Latter-day Saints and many others who believe in the prophetic ministry of Joseph Smith, the temple’s significance remains in place.

The temple lot is part of a larger, 63-acre land purchase made on December 19, 1831. The city of Independence has expanded west and now includes the entire 63 acres, but the Latter-day Saints fled Jackson County before they could build a temple.

The land for this first temple measures about 300 feet by 200 feet (about 90 meters by 60 meters). The designs of the Independence Temple are similar to those of the Kirtland Temple. The plans describe a building 87-feet long and 61-feet wide (about 28-meters long and 19-meters wide) with the inscription “Holiness to the Lord” on the facade. The Lord declared it a “place of thanksgiving for all saints, and for a place of instruction for all those who are called to the work of the ministry” (Doctrine and Covenants 97:13).

The temple lot is across the street from Community of Christ Temple and adjacent to the Independence Visitors’ Center on one of the highest points in the area. Set between three different churches, the temple lot remains a sacred place.

What to Expect

The lot is currently owned by the Church of Christ, once known as the Church of Christ (Temple Lot). Their meetinghouse is next to the lot still reserved for a temple. Visitors are welcome to explore the grass-covered grounds outside of the building and take pictures. Parking and restrooms are available at the Independence Visitors’ Center.