Bardsdale United Methodist Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Bardsdale Methodist Episcopal Church
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 Location in California
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| Location | 1498 Bardsdale Ave., Bardsdale, California |
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| Built | 1898 |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 86001986 |
| Added to NRHP | August 28, 1986 |
The Bardsdale United Methodist Church is a very old and special church building. It is located at 1498 Bardsdale Avenue in the quiet community of Bardsdale, California. This area is in Ventura County. The church is south of the Santa Clara River. It is about three miles from Fillmore.
About Bardsdale Church
This church was built in 1898. It was first called Bardsdale Methodist Episcopal Church. It is built in a style called carpenter Gothic. This means it looks like a grand Gothic church, but it's made mostly of wood. It has a tall bell tower, about 60 feet high. The church also has high, pointed arches. It has always been an important place for the Bardsdale community.
Building the Church
The land for the church was given by Thomas R. Bard. He was the person Bardsdale is named after. He also helped pay for two beautiful stained glass windows. These windows were put in the north and west walls.
When the church opened in April 1898, it was a big event. The Los Angeles Times newspaper wrote about its dedication. They said the building cost $2550. It could seat 350 people. The church also had a nice basement for social gatherings.
A New Name and Look
On April 23, 1968, the Methodist Church joined with another church group. They formed the United Methodist Church. Because of this, the church's name changed to Bardsdale United Methodist Church.
In 1982, part of the church ceiling fell during a service. This led to a big renovation project. The church was carefully repaired and restored. Some new materials came from a church in Los Angeles that had closed. These materials included more stained-glass windows. They also got an oak chancel (the area around the altar). Other items were chandeliers, pews (church benches), and marble around the doors. A hand-carved pulpit and communion rail were also added.
Music and History
The church has a special pipe organ. It was made by Schoenstein & Co.. This organ was bought in 1986. Parishioners (church members) donated $60,000 to buy it.
Since the mid-1960s, the Bardsdale Chancel Choir has a special tradition. They perform a free holiday concert. This program is called a vesper program. It happens during the Christmas season.
In 1979, the Ventura County Cultural Heritage Board named the church County Landmark #50. They said it was the only example of carpenter Gothic style in the area. The church was also added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. This means it is recognized as an important historic site in the United States.
See also
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Ventura County, California
- Ventura County Historic Landmarks & Points of Interest
- First Baptist Church of Ventura
