In the wake of the devastating Teton Dam Flood in June of 1976, the Rexburg Tabernacle Civic Center, a beloved symbol of community strength and unity, faced an uncertain future. The flood wrought havoc upon the town, and the historic Tabernacle, which had served the community for over six decades, suffered severe damage. However, what followed was a remarkable story of determination and resilience as a new generation of Rexburg residents rallied to save their cherished landmark.
The floodwaters that surged through Rexburg not only destroyed homes and displaced families but also wreaked havoc on the Tabernacle. As the waters receded and the community began the long process of recovery, the fate of the Tabernacle hung in the balance. Many in Rexburg felt that this historic building, which had hosted countless events and served as a gathering place for the community, should not be lost to flooding and neglect.
Long before the flood's devastation, in 1972, the first signs of trouble emerged when the Church contemplated demolishing the building. Alarmed by this potential loss, local residents quickly rallied to protect the Tabernacle, recognizing its historical and cultural significance. Their passionate advocacy led to a concerted effort to have the building added to the National Register of Historic Places. This designation not only helped to preserve its legacy but also raised awareness about its architectural value and the community's attachment to it. The grassroots movement united residents, historians, and local leaders in a mission to save the Tabernacle, ultimately laying the groundwork for its future restoration.
In 1977, in a bold move to preserve this vital piece of their heritage, the City of Rexburg decided to purchase the Tabernacle. This decision marked the beginning of a crucial community effort to restore and revitalize the building. With a renewed sense of purpose, residents came together once again—much like their predecessors did in 1911—to embark on the challenging journey of revitalization.
The restoration project drew on the same community spirit that had previously built the Tabernacle. Local volunteers, craftspeople, and city officials pooled their talents and resources, dedicated to saving a structure that many saw as a centerpiece of their town’s identity. Fundraising events were organized, with community members coming together to contribute money, materials, and labor to help restore the building to its former glory.
In addition to physical repairs, the restoration process also involved a careful assessment of the building's historical significance. Architects and historians worked diligently to ensure that the renovations would honor the original design and maintain the aesthetic that had made the Tabernacle a beloved landmark.
Through tireless efforts and unyielding determination, the restoration of the Rexburg Tabernacle Civic Center began to take shape, breathing new life into the once-damaged structure. By the early 1980s, the community celebrated the reopening of the Tabernacle, which once again became a vital meeting place for celebrations and gatherings.
Today, the Rexburg Tabernacle Civic Center still stands, not just as a beautiful architectural landmark but as a testament to the strength and resolve of a community that refused to let adversity define it. The story of the Tabernacle is one of resilience—a narrative that celebrates communities coming together in the face of hardship, proving that even after tragedy, hope and unity can lead to renewal and growth.
The revival of this cherished institution will undoubtedly inspire future generations to cherish their heritage and come together in the pursuit of a brighter, more united future for Rexburg.