In 1990, I lived with Sue in a run down apartment building that reeked of Asian cooking, mildew, and death. It was the best place I ever had. Re-visiting this place, I noticed that not much has changed.
The trees were taller, but the building was still rundown, quaint, quiet, and I’m sure if I went inside, it probably smelled the same. It was also only a few blocks from the rumored Gilgal Gardens. Rumors were that this place was built as an anti-Mormon shrine, hidden from SLC main streets. But, if you knew where it was located, ( and could jump a fence after midnight) the park was yours to explore…..
Present day. It is surprising how few people still know little to nothing about Gilgal. I went back to rediscover the area, and to learn more about it.
Gilgal is an historic sculpture garden created by Thomas B. Child Jr ( 1888 – 1963). It was his desire to give physical form to his deep – felt beliefs. He was an LDS bishop for over 19 years, and this garden was not built as anti-religion. Quite the contrary…..
“If you want to be brought down to earth in your thinking and studying, try to make your thoughts express themselves with your hands.”
The garden itself contains twelve original sculptural arrangements and over seventy stones engraved with scriptures, poems, and philosophical texts. These are Child’s own truths from his life-long spiritual quest.
Child’s hope was that his garden would inspire viewers to ponder the unsolved mysteries of life.
This garden is now also home to the
Master Gardeners program at Utah State University. They had a little section of various vegetables and flowers growing when I was there. (
plug for master Gardener Janae)
Here is a little movie that I hope you enjoy. I think it perfectly captures the eccentric mood and quirky feelings I had while at Gilgal.
