It opened in 1876 to serve as a public works building, originally hosting church services and court hearings.

The settlement of St. George, Utah Territory was seen to be an important site for the future of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Brigham Young, the President of the church at the time, then commissioned the construction of public works buildings in the area to assist the farmers.

Funds for the building were raised by diverting all tithes from Beaver and all communities southward.

Inside, ceilings rise 29 feet (8.8 m) high with a plaster cornice, supported by twenty columns.