Museum of Mormon Mexican History
Tucked away on a Provo side street, the Museum of Mormon Mexican History is a hidden gem. This museum walks through a private collection of historical memorabilia relating to the history of the LDS church in Mexico.
Provo, Utah is home to an incredible variety of museums, historic sights, and other thrilling experiences. Most students attending either Brigham Young University or Utah Valley University have visited a museum or two, whether for church sponsored outings, a date night, or just looking for something fun to do with friends. However, one of Provo’s museums remains quiet. Established in 2011, the Museum of Mormon Mexican History sits between Brigham Young University campus and west campus housing. Many students pass this small museum daily on their walk to campus, but few have set foot inside its walls.
The Museum of Mormon Mexican History houses the private collection of unique artifacts left by the founder’s paternal grandmother. Many of these come from the 19th and early 20th centuries, providing insight into the beginnings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Mexico and Latin America.
The founder, Fernando R. Gomez explains that “The idea of establishing a museum of Mexican Mormon History came from a humble but unique collection left by my paternal grandmother's daughter, Consuelo. My cousin Raymond had been the keeper of such memorabilia. With his help and that of Sergio Pagaza Castillo, we founded a museum in Mexico City in 1991, and an extension was opened in Provo, Utah in 2011. The Mexico City museum closed in 2014; however, this endeavor has been a labor of love. We four, Raymundo, Sergio, my wife Enriqueta, and I have made a dream come true. We, with limited resources, have brought to life a forgotten history - a legacy for the future."
The collection comprises items like traditional clothing, early sacrament trays, and original publications. There are also life size mannequins depicting certain scenes, such as the translating of the Book of Mormon into Spanish. There is a full exhibit dedicated to the people in El Paso, Texas, where the Mexican saints found refuge while fleeing persecution. The display placards in the museum are in both English and Spanish, providing a uniquely accessible experience for visitors.
The museum is free for anyone to visit, but donations are appreciated. Museum operators advertise tours for Family Home Evening groups and other student events. While the museum appears small, there is an incredible wealth of information and artifacts within it.
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