Preservationists fight to save historic prison chapel from demolition

In a recent public meeting, David Amott, executive director of Preservation Utah, passionately advocated for the preservation of historic prison structures at the Wasatch facility, particularly the old prison chapel, known as the chapel by the wayside. Amott highlighted the chapel's significant history, tracing back to a notable prison riot in February 1957, when 511 inmates revolted over poor living conditions, taking hostages and presenting a list of grievances to then-Governor George Clyde. Among these grievances was a request for a dedicated chapel.

In response to the uprising, Governor Clyde initiated a fundraising campaign that rallied citizens across Utah to contribute towards the construction of the chapel, which was ultimately built by the inmates themselves. Amott expressed concern that this historically rich building is slated for demolition as part of the redevelopment of the Utah State Prison Complex into a mixed-use development. He criticized the Point Commission, responsible for planning the new development, for deeming the prison complex \"offensive\" and advocating for the erasure of its history.

Amott argued that while the prison's chapel holds deep significance, its preservation would require minimal resources and could serve as a valuable public space through adaptive reuse. He emphasized that the chapel represents not only the harsh realities of incarceration but also the community's hopes and generosity. As plans move forward, the fate of the chapel remains uncertain, with only a single guard tower expected to remain as a reminder of the prison's past.