Back in 2011, the Church announced that the Aaronic priesthood restoration site was going to receive a makeover. (link) It is the area where Joseph lived that we refer to as Harmony, Pennsylvania. Joseph did much of the translation of the Book of Mormon there, but the most historic events that happened in that area were the restoration of the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods.
I have a fondness for that site, and was glad to hear the announcement on September 30 that the construction was going to proceed. Coincidentally, I was scheduled to be there the following week.
I took some pictures to help you get an idea of what is going on – they project is already well under way, and looks like, well, a construction site. I was surprised to see how much has already been done before they made any formal announcements. I also noticed that it is now referred to as the “Priesthood Restoration Site,” and they dropped “Aaronic.” Correctly so, because the Melchizedek priesthood was restored near that area as well.
Here is a picture I took years ago of the site of Joseph and Emma’s home, where much of the Book of Mormon was translated – the original foundation stone is still visible.
Now the cabin is being rebuilt, but the original foundation stone was preserved and will be used in some form. Here’s what it looks like right now:
Across a very busy road you would find the site of the Isaac & Elizabeth Hale home (Emma’s parents). The site looked like this before construction began:
As I mentioned their is a road between the two homesites, with little area to walk. To avoid the need to cross “Frogger Style, they are moving the road, and putting a pedestrian tunnel under it. Good choice.
There is also a chapel under construction that will also house a visitors center. It is well underway.
It will be a base for people to visit the sites, complete with a new movie about these important events of the Restoration. Currently, visitors are asked to check in at a small office on the east end of the property. Elder and Sister Kerby, from Mapleton, Utah are the sweet missionary couple there to greet you and answer your questions.
Here is a map of the site, and how it will end up.
No changes are being made at the river, and there is still a railroad in-between the homesites and the river. Because of that, you need to drive down and around to get there. (Personal tip: Don’t climb the fences if you are there with your sons, they will just laugh at you.)
Everytime I have taken my sons to Harmony, we have been alone, and enjoyed the peaceful serenity. It was a little off-putting to see it all torn up, trees removed and construction work going on. I prefer the sound of birds to jackhammers. So if you visit during the construction phase, you have been warned. The river is still peaceful and worth the visit.
I do appreciate what is being done, and eventually it should be lovely. These sites are hugely important in the history of the Restoration, and more people need to see them. Having the buildings re-created, and a movie explaining what went on there will help people better understand the significance.
And what was the significance? The Priesthood of God was restored to the earth by heavenly messengers to a modern prophet, and the first baptisms of this final dispensation took place there. Simply put – Harmony, PA is where the Apostacy ended. Think about it. Take your family there to see it.
Or you could go to Disneyland again.
The Kirby’s are very nice, and boy; can she cook. I was on the crew that framed the visitors center. It was my first time on the East Coast. All in all it was a great experience for me. I can’t wait to go back to see the finished project.
Hey! I know the Kirby’s! He was my bishop when I was young. I’d recognize those eyebrows anywhere. 😉 They’re definitely salt-of-the-earth people. His daughter was my sister’s best friend too. I’ll have to forward this to my mom. What a small world.
Thanks for sharing!
It’s so fantastic to see this project moving forward! I heard that there were some debates with the state about the land, but after Hurricane Sandy tore through NJ and NY and members of the Church in the area (including myself) gave incredible service to communities, the Church was given permission to move forward with construction! Amazing what service can do!
I’m blessed enough have the Priesthood Restoration Site in my Stake boundaries. My oldest son was baptized there in the river. We’ve fasted and prayed for the permits to be approved so the construction could begin. We’ve seen miracles.
I can’t wait until the site is finished. The priesthood is amazing and I’m so glad I can be a part of Christ’s restored church!
AuntSue
Thanks for the headsup. I had not heard this announcement. The pictures are really nice, too.
Birdsong is really better than construction noises.
To be complete, Disneyland only needs a great and spacious building, standing as if in the air…
I served my mission in Pennsylvania but unfortunately never made it to Harmony. I’ve always wanted to go back and tour the church sites. Thanks for the info!
We will pass on Disneyland 🙂
Thanks so much for the update and pictures.
Is there a timeline for completion on this site? I have been waiting to go again with our family until they’re done!
Summer or Fall of 2015.
Awesome. Thanks!
Beautiful! My Heart is full knowing that our Lord and Savior has brought so much to earth again. I can see in my mind HIS directing our leaders towards the building of the Kingdom. Tears of Joy must be flowing in Heaven over this wonderful work. I know they are flowing here on earth. So Peaceful and serene.
We went there 6 years ago, right after we’d been up at Palmyra and the pageant. It was a very nice, quiet place without many people there. It was my favorite stop in our Church History tour. The spirit was very strong there. I was also very touched that the Church had preserved the gravestones of Baby Alvin and the Hales with great care.
Thanks so much for the tour! I hope to attend with family some day.