Ten stories tall it stands. The Kearns Building a majestic presence on Salt Lake City’s Main Street. This isn’t just any office building. It’s a piece of history a testament to ambition and a touch of controversy.
Built between 1909 and 1911 the Kearns Building was the brainchild of Senator Thomas Kearns. A powerful figure in Utah’s mining and media circles Kearns spared no expense. He wanted a building that reflected his success. Architects John Parkinson and George Bergstrom delivered. They borrowed heavily from the style of Louis Sullivan creating a Sullivanesque masterpiece. The white terracotta tile facade with its emphasis on vertical lines is striking. Notice the prominent cornice. It’s a classic example of early 20th-century American architecture.
The Kearns Building wasn’t just aesthetically impressive. It was innovative for its time. A steel-reinforced concrete frame provided strength and stability. Before its opening in February 1911 a third of its office space was already leased. By April most of the offices were occupied. This included high-profile tenants like clothiers Gardner & Adams Co and Rowe & Kelly. The building even boasted “the most beautiful buffet in the United States” a place called the Mecca.
But the Kearns Building’s story isn’t without its shadows. During construction Kearns faced accusations of manipulating the city council and its building codes. He was a powerful man and some suggest he used his influence to his advantage. These accusations added a layer of intrigue to the building’s already impressive story.
The Kearns Building is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a reflection of a bygone era. It represents the ambition and the controversies of early 20th-century Salt Lake City. The Aberdeen Quarry provided the granite for its first-floor columns and entrance archway. This connection to the local landscape further enriches the building’s narrative. Take a moment to appreciate this iconic landmark. It’s a window into the past and a symbol of enduring legacy in the heart of Salt Lake City.