Aaronic Priesthood Restoration Site

The Aaronic Priesthood Restoration Site is a 157-acre religious memorial in Oakland Township featuring reconstructed buildings and a visitor center with exhibits on early church history. Multiple structures and displays throughout the grounds tell the story of what happened here and why it matters to this faith community.

Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery received a religious ordination at this location in 1829, according to church teachings. This event shaped the early years of the movement and remains central to what the community believes about its origins.

Sculptures by Avard Fairbanks depict key religious moments and stand along accessible pathways throughout the grounds. They communicate what this place represents to those who worship according to this faith.

Plan for guided tours lasting from 90 minutes to 3 hours that start at the visitor center. Films and exhibits are available inside the center, and the grounds have well-marked paths for walking at your own pace.

The grounds hold a cemetery where Joseph and Emma Smith's firstborn child is buried. This burial place also contains graves of the Hale family, showing the deeper family connections tied to this location.

Location: Pennsylvania

GPS coordinates: 41.95120,-75.63870

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:45