A 26-foot-tall metal pyramid in Salt Lake City serves as the headquarters for Summum, a religious organization that offers modern mummification services for both humans and pets. The structure, located within a gated compound in an industrial area, functions as a sanctuary, temple, and classroom for followers of the group's unique philosophy.
Architectural Design and Construction
The Summum Pyramid, located at 707 Genesee Ave., was completed in 1979 following a construction period that began in 1977. According to the organization, the building was made possible through donations and the volunteer labor of many individuals. The structure measures 40 feet long at the base and stands 26 feet high.
Architecturally, the pyramid is designed as a "golden pyramid" by incorporating the Divine Proportion, also known as Phi. This mathematical ratio is applied to the structure such that the height of a side triangle divided by half of its base equals 1.618. This design principle is noted by the organization as being similar to the construction methods used in the great pyramids of Egypt and those in Mexico.
Sacred Resonant Chamber
The interior of the pyramid is designed to function as a highly sophisticated resonant chamber. To achieve this, large Brazilian quartz crystals, cut into precise shapes and tuned to specific frequencies, are positioned within the apex and the four corners of the structure. The organization states these crystals are intended to energize the pyramid through operative Neter forces.
While the interior remains off-limits to the public, the facility serves several religious and educational purposes. It is used to store Summum Nectar Publications, acts as a classroom for students studying Summum Philosophy, and hosts sacred initiations.
Mummification Services and Founder
The religion was founded by Claude "Corky" Nowell, also known as Summum Bonum Amon Ra. Nowell claimed to have received secrets of the universe from an alien race. Following his death in 2008, Nowell was himself mummified.
The organization offers mummification services to those who can afford the fees. According to Roadside America, the cost for mummifying a pet is $15,000, while the cost for a human is $67,000. The mummification process itself is reported to take a minimum of three months.
Legal and Historical Context
The pyramid's legal history includes a period where it was forced to become licensed as a winery by federal and local government authorities. The organization notes this requirement was an imposition by authorities.
In a historical note, Summum points out that the first winery in Utah was operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during the presidency of Brigham Young. However, the Church later changed its stance on alcohol after claiming to receive a revelation forbidding its use in sacramental worship.
Site Details and Messaging
The pyramid is situated on a small, neatly-tended lawn within its gated compound. Surrounding the eastern fence are crowds of sunflowers. Visitors to the site can access "Divine, Consecrated, Sanctified" water from a sidewalk-side spigot, which is available between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
A large sign at the site displays the group's religious messaging: "The Grand Principal of Creation is: 'Nothing and Possibility come in and out of bond infinite times in a finite moment.'"
Regional Landmarks
The site is located near several other local landmarks in the Salt Lake City region. Nearby attractions include a 15-foot-high troll known as Hoodah, a 33-foot-long iguana, and a Virgin Mary located in a tree stump.
