80 years ago today - Aug 23, 1940

Premiere of Twentieth-Century-Fox motion picture "Brigham Young" at the Centre Theater and six other theaters in Salt Lake City. All seven theaters completely sell out to nearly 9,000 people at the then high ticket price of $1.10. Such unprecedented response to a film premiere sets an industry record for the number of theatres used simultaneously for the premiere of one film.. Ten days previously, the First Presidency was given a private screening. Emerging from the screening, President Heber J. Grant says to waiting reporters. "I endorse it with all my heart and have no suggestions. This is one of the greatest days of my life. I can't say any more than 'God Bless You'." Utah's Governor Henry H. Blood and Salt Lake City Mayor Ab Jenkins declare the 23rd as "Brigham Young Day" complete with parade, window display competition amongst the downtown merchants, and special advertising campaigns based on the pioneer theme. Actor Dean Jagger, who played the part of Brigham Young, converts to Mormonism later in life.

[On This Day in Mormon History, http://onthisdayinmormonhistory.blogspot.com]

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