ZCMI: A Legacy Cast in Iron (2011)

The cast iron facade of Salt Lake City's historic ZCMI store has symbolized pioneering commerce and economic vitality for more than 135 years. The Zion's Co-operative Mercantile Institution retail enterprise, founded in 1868, was one of the first department stores in America. The ZCMI cast iron facade was the largest of its kind in Utah. In a 1973 store expansion, this beloved facade was slated for demolition. Concerned patrons insisted it be restored as a downtown landmark. Restoration architect Steven T. Baird was hired to develop the protocol for this first major cast iron restoration in the country. Continuing the legacy of their father, Steve's sons' company, Historical Arts & Casting, Inc., was commissioned in 2007 to preserve this historic landmark once more.