The Louisville Kentucky Temple was the first temple built in Kentucky and has served members throughout Kentucky, southern Indiana, southwestern Ohio, and parts of West Virginia since its dedication in 2000. Located in Crestwood, just northeast of Louisville, the temple is known for its elegant simplicity, beautiful Vermont marble exterior, and peaceful wooded setting. It was the 76th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Louisville Kentucky Temple on March 17, 1999, as part of the Church's effort to bring smaller temples closer to members around the world. At the time, many members in Kentucky and neighboring states traveled several hours to attend temples in other states.
Groundbreaking services were held on May 29, 1999, with Elder John K. Carmack presiding. Following a seven-day public open house from March 4–11, 2000, President Thomas S. Monson, then serving as First Counselor in the First Presidency, dedicated the temple on March 19, 2000. The Louisville Kentucky Temple became the 76th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Louisville Kentucky Temple's most distinctive features is its compact design. At approximately 10,700 square feet, it was one of the smaller temples built during President Gordon B. Hinckley's worldwide temple expansion. Despite its modest size, it provides all the sacred ordinances needed to serve members across a large multi-state temple district.
The temple's exterior is finished in beautiful Imperial Danby White marble, quarried in Vermont, giving the building a timeless appearance. A single attached spire topped with the angel Moroni rises above the temple, complementing the surrounding rolling hills and wooded landscape of Oldham County.
Inside, the temple features two progressive instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and a baptistry. Its peaceful setting and intimate design create a warm, reverent atmosphere that has blessed members throughout the region for more than two decades.
Visiting the Temple
The Louisville Kentucky Temple is located at 7118 West Highway 22 in Crestwood, Kentucky. The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, patron housing, or an on-site distribution center. However, the beautifully landscaped grounds are open to visitors and provide a quiet place for reflection among mature trees and seasonal flowers.
Fun Facts
- First temple built in Kentucky.
- 76th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on March 17, 1999.
- Groundbreaking held on May 29, 1999.
- Dedicated by President Thomas S. Monson on March 19, 2000.
- Public open house lasted 7 days.
- Built on a 3-acre property.
- Approximately 10,700 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with Imperial Danby White marble from Vermont.
Final Thoughts
The Louisville Kentucky Temple stands as a symbol of faith for Latter-day Saints throughout Kentucky and the surrounding region. Though modest in size, it has brought temple blessings much closer to thousands of members who once traveled great distances to worship. Its elegant architecture, peaceful setting, and enduring purpose make it a meaningful stop on any temple journey.
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