Central Methodist Episcopal Church (Lansing, Michigan) facts for kids
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Central Methodist Episcopal Church
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 Location in Michigan
Location in the United States
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| Location | 215 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing, Michigan |
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| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| Built | 1889 |
| Built by | H.W. Coddington |
| Architect | Elijah E. Myers; Lee Black |
| Architectural style | Richardsonian Romanesque |
| MPS | Downtown Lansing MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 80001864 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | September 17, 1980 |
The Central Methodist Episcopal Church (now called the Central United Methodist Church) is a historic building in Lansing, Michigan. It's located at 215 North Capitol Avenue. This church is so important that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Building a Community: The Church's History
The story of Methodists in the Lansing area began way back in 1845. These early church members held their first meetings then.
In 1861, the Central Methodist Episcopal Church was officially formed. The group bought land to build their first church. This building was finished in 1863.
However, the church quickly became too small! More and more people joined the congregation. So, in 1882, the church bought new land for a bigger building. This is where the church stands today.
They looked at many architects for the new design. Finally, they chose Elijah E. Myers. He was famous for designing the Michigan State Capitol building. H.W. Coddington from Kalamazoo, Michigan was chosen as the builder.
Construction on the new church started in 1889. It was completed just one year later, in 1890. Later, a special building called a "temple house" was added. It was designed by Lee Black and built in 1922-1923.
A Look Inside: What the Church Looks Like
The Central Methodist Episcopal Church is a strong, impressive building. It's made from dark red Ionia sandstone. This style is called Richardsonian Romanesque, which means it has thick walls, round arches, and a grand look.
The church is quite large, measuring about 150 feet long and 86 feet wide. On the front, there's a tall, square tower that's 85 feet high. On the other side, there's a shorter, half-round tower.
Inside, you'll find a wide, open lobby. Two U-shaped staircases lead up to a second-floor lobby. A large entrance takes you into the main sanctuary. This room is wide and low, with pews (church benches) arranged in circles around a low pulpit. The ceiling has cool wooden beams called "open timber trusses." All the wood trim inside is made of red oak.
Next to the church is the Temple House. This building is made of brick and stone, matching the church's style. The Temple House has church offices and a two-story auditorium. It also has classrooms for Sunday school and even a gymnasium!
