Brigham Young Complex, National Historic Landmark ensemble on East South Temple, Salt Lake City, United States.
The Brigham Young Complex stands at the northwest corner of East South Temple and State Street, on Temple Square's southeastern edge. From right to left it consists of the Beehive House, the President's Office, the Governor's Office and the Lion House, all designed by Truman O. Angell in the 1850s with New England forms and Gothic detailing. A rubble wall separates the group from later construction.
The complex was constructed between 1852 and 1856 under architect Truman O. Angell, blending New England architectural traditions with Gothic details. This construction period marks a pivotal time in Salt Lake City's early development when major community institutions were being established.
The names come from the buildings' functions and emblems: the Beehive House takes its name from the beehive, a symbol of industry, while the Lion House is named for the lion carved above its entrance. The Lion House was built in 1855–56 to house Brigham Young's family of 12 wives and 35 children. The Beehive House is open for tours; the Lion House serves as an event venue.
The complex occupies the northwest corner of East South Temple and State Street, at the southeastern edge of the enlarged Temple Square area. The Beehive House is open for guided tours, while the Lion House serves as an event venue. The buildings were closed to the public in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The rubble wall around the complex is not entirely in its original position: parts were laid when Brigham Young set aside the site in the 1850s, but other sections were moved to the north and west boundaries during road widening. Look for the seams where old and relocated stone meet.
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