Parowan Old Rock Church

Parowan was settled in January of 1851. Almost immediately the pioneers built a “picket” fort. Soon, in 1854, the picket structure was replaced by an adobe-walled fort. The “Old Rock Church” was started in 1863 near the center of the original fort boundaries, or as  the minutes from a November 24, 1861, meeting describe it “in the center of the public square.” Eighty-two men came forward pledging amounts between $15 and $250 for a total subscription of $7,495.

 Built of local rock, the church took 13 years to complete. The church was used for worship but also had a large amusement hall (basement) and was used for school, dances, and dramatic productions. It housed Parowan High School during the 1917-1918 school year. Church activities in the building ceased in 1918, the year that marked the completion of the church building now at the corner of Main Street and 100 South (still in use).

 The church building was deeded to Parowan City in the mid-1970s. The Daughters of Utah Pioneers curate the contents of the museum and scheduling of the building’s use.  Tours are available from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

-Steve Decker, Parowan Historian

For the latest information regarding the Old Rock Church, please view their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2112105295658990