May 10, 2008

So, we crossed Utah off our list. Yep. Yep.

In our 24 hours on the ground, we did a few major things in Salt Lake City, all of them pioneers- and/or Mormon-tinged. First up (following lunch at the vegetarian, organic Sage's Cafe!!) was the pioneers museum, packed with thousands and thousands of items used on the trail west. Low-key and random, it lacked "exhibits," but rather, it felt like the attic of your great-aunt - much too much to absorb at once.

Next, it was on to Temple Square, otherwise known (to me) as J.C. Central. The visitors center was a study in indoctrination, so we quickly moved on to Brigham Young's home, known as the Beehive House. (Note: Did you know that bees are the unofficial mascot of Mormons and Utah? They are symbols of hard work and diligence.) Here was the intersection of American history and Mormonism, as instead of a historical look at an icon, this gave us a religious slant. The tour was led by two missionaries (some of many walking around in skirts and flag badges) who interpreted Young through their "testimonies." It was just not the historical experience we are used to.

Next it was on to the Heritage Village known as This is the Place. "This is the place" to remain, Brigham Young prophesied, perched atop a high hill. So the Mormons settled, creating the historical village that I enjoyed. No, I am not really sure where their buildings went, but this village contained time-period cabins, schools, and inns. Being a connoisseur of historical villages, I can tell you that one truly helpful feature of this site was the markers outside each building - lots and lots of information about each building itself. How much more fascinating the stories are when you know the details!

The next morning, we hurried to the Tabernacle in Temple Square to see the free Sunday-morning performance of the choir. The Mormon Tabernacle Choir, that is. (Dressed up for church, I nevertheless stood out in my pair of PANTS. Oops.) This was the standout event of this trip, the one notable happening. Unfortunately, our view of the stage was obstructed by a column and cameras, and for some reason, the orchestra was miked beyond all reason. So, it was difficult to focus on the choir, but we did enjoy this Mother's Day performance. (Did you know that this presentation, Music and the Spoken Word, has been broadcast - on radio and now on radio and TV - since 1929? This was the 4,105th show!)

From there, it was onto the airport. Nothing groundbreaking, nothing terrible... take it from me, folks; Utah has it all!