Salt Lake City’s Fisher Mansion: A Historic Gem on the Path to Revival
Salt Lake City’s Fisher Mansion, a stately Victorian building along the Jordan River, is poised for further rehabilitation thanks to potential funding from the City Council. The mansion, inextricably linked to the history of Utah’s brewing industry and the Fisher family, has been vacant and damaged since the 2020 earthquake, but a renewed focus on its restoration is gaining momentum.
A Legacy Built on Beer and Stone
Constructed in 1893, the Albert Fisher Mansion was home to Albert Fisher, founder of the Fisher Brewing Co., and his wife, Alma. Designed by Richard K.A. Kletting – the architect also responsible for the Utah State Capitol – the mansion represents a significant piece of Salt Lake City’s architectural and social history. Its unique status as a year-round residence on the west side during that era highlights its importance.
Earthquake Damage and Ongoing Repairs
The 5.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Salt Lake City in March 2020 caused significant damage to the mansion, leading to its closure and the removal of all three chimneys. A $3 million project is currently underway to stabilize the building and preserve its structural integrity. This includes upgrading the heating and cooling system, strengthening exterior brick walls, reinforcing the foundation, and repairing interior cracks.
New Funding Request and Potential Uses
City administrators are seeking an additional $400,000 from the City Council to further the rehabilitation efforts. These funds would be allocated to restoring historic elements such as the wraparound sandstone porch, windows, and flooring. However, the funding wouldn’t cover the complete restoration or the replacement of a previously stolen fence. The ultimate use of the building once restored remains under discussion.
A “Plug and Play” Project for the West Side
City officials view the Fisher Mansion as a valuable project for the west side of Salt Lake City. “Fisher Mansion is a good project on the west side that we can plug and play, so to speak,” stated Jill Remington Love, the city’s chief administrative officer. The amount of additional funding required will depend on the final intended use of the property.
Challenges and Future Funding
While the current funding request is $400,000, policy analysts anticipate the need for additional funding in the future to fully restore the mansion. The City Council recently informally voted to reallocate $100,000 from the request towards historic displays at City Hall.
Preserving a Piece of Utah’s Past
The Fisher Mansion’s restoration is not merely about preserving a building. it’s about safeguarding a tangible link to Salt Lake City’s past. Archaeologist Rachel Quist emphasized the mansion’s unique status and the significance of Kletting’s involvement in its design, highlighting its importance as a “statement” location.
Did you know?
Richard K.A. Kletting, the architect of the Fisher Mansion, also designed the Utah State Capitol building, showcasing his prominent role in shaping Utah’s architectural landscape.
FAQ
Q: What caused the damage to the Fisher Mansion?
A: The mansion was damaged in the 5.7 magnitude Salt Lake City earthquake on March 18, 2020.
Q: How much is the current stabilization project costing?
A: The current project to stabilize the building is costing $3 million.
Q: What is the proposed use for the Fisher Mansion once it’s restored?
A: The proposed use is still under discussion and will influence the amount of additional funding needed.
Q: Who designed the Fisher Mansion?
A: The mansion was designed by Richard K.A. Kletting.
Q: Is the mansion currently open to the public?
A: No, the mansion is currently closed to the public due to ongoing repairs.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Fisher Mansion’s restoration and its future role in Salt Lake City’s vibrant west side.
