About The Mathis

Nestled in the heart of downtown St. George, Utah, The Mathis stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and enduring community spirit. Established in the early 20th century, this building has gracefully transitioned through various roles, each echoing the evolving narrative of St. George.

A Storied Past
Originally constructed as the Henry Riding Carpenter Shop, the building soon became a cornerstone of local commerce. Entrepreneurs William and Ernest Nelson transformed it into a thriving meat and grocery business, with support from esteemed businesswoman Addie E. Price. In 1924, Wallace B. Mathis acquired the establishment, rebranding it as Mathis Market. During this period, notable enhancements were made, including the addition of a distinctive façade featuring prism glass windows, which remain a hallmark of the building’s architectural charm.

A Personal Connection
For the Glendenning family, The Mathis is more than just a building; it’s a cherished piece of their heritage. Gretchen Glendenning, a fifth-generation resident of St. George, fondly recalls stories of her mother, Teddy Sue, visiting the butcher shop housed within these walls during her childhood. This deep-rooted connection inspired the Glendenning family to preserve and rejuvenate The Mathis, ensuring its legacy continues for future generations.

A Thoughtful Transformation
In 2019, the Glendenning family embarked on an ambitious project to breathe new life into The Mathis. Collaborating with Lloyd Architects, renowned for their expertise in adaptive reuse projects, they envisioned a space that would honor the building’s historical significance while serving contemporary needs. The original grocery area was meticulously converted into a versatile event space, preserving elements like exposed brick walls and roof trusses to maintain its historic character. A modern three-story addition was seamlessly integrated to accommodate the family office, featuring design elements such as a private courtyard and strategically placed skylights to introduce natural light into the space.

A Living Legacy
Today, The Mathis stands as a harmonious blend of past and present. Its 2,400-square-foot event venue offers historical charm with modern amenities, serving as a blank canvas ready to be transformed for any occasion. Set against the stunning backdrop of St. George’s red rock landscape, The Mathis is not just a building; it’s a living testament to the community’s dedication to preserving its heritage while embracing the future.

Experience The Mathis
We invite you to become part of The Mathis story. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, or intimate gathering, our space offers a unique setting that marries historical elegance with contemporary sophistication. Explore the possibilities and create lasting memories in a venue that embodies the spirit and history of St. George.