Washington School/Vernal LDS Relief Society Hall

Constructed in 1895, this structure is a classical building done in the Temple form with the gable end facing the street, with minor Victorian embellishment. It was originally constructed by volunteers of the community for use as a school building – the Washington School, in Vernal’s school district #2. However, the building was only used as a school for a brief time; after only two years, the building was closed because the trustees felt that it was too far for the children on the east side to walk. Although the school had closed in 1897, the school board owned the property 1913, when it was then sold to the Vernal LDS Relief Society. The Vernal Relief Society was established in 1880, and the organization promoted the and welfare of community and was active during World War I in homefront activities to support the troops. These activities the years the building took place during the years used as a Relief Society Hall. Although not originally constructed for this use, this is the only known Relief Society Hall in Vernal. John N. Davis purchased the property from the Relief Society in 1928, and again the use of the building changed, this time to a residence. Mr. Davis was a civic and religious leader; he served as Bishop in the Vernal LDS Church Ward in 1909, served as mayor pro tem in 1922, and served as a representative to the Utah State House from 1907 to 1911. In 1944 the Davis family sold the property to Henry and Helen Schaefermeyer. Mr. Schaefermeyer has since owned the property.

Located at 266 North 500 West in Vernal, Utah