Abstract
In 1893 Saltair, a resort with a massive Moorish revival pavilion, was built on the shores of the Great Salt Lake and attracted visitors from across the state of Utah. Owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, which was heavily influenced by the temperance
movement, the question of whether alcohol should be served was a controversial subject by the owners and visitors alike. The Church wanted a wholesome resort where families could relax in peace away from alcoholic influences yet were also concerned that banning alcohol would result in the loss of prots. Despite this controversy and the hesitancy of the Mormon owners to sell alcohol, evidence of alcohol consumption is prevalent in the archaeological record. Here, I examine the role of alcohol at Saltair, and the spaces in which it was
consumed. Additionally, I consider the attitudes that patrons and owners of Saltair had towards alcohol, and how its presence impacted their experience at the resort.