Church of the Epiphany (Los Angeles) facts for kids
|
Church of the Epiphany
|
|
 Location in the Los Angeles metropolitan area
Location in California
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | 2808 N Altura St Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles |
|---|---|
| NRHP reference No. | 100004857 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | January 6, 2020 |
The Church of the Epiphany is a very old and important church in Los Angeles. It is the oldest Episcopal church that is still open in the city. You can find it in the Lincoln Heights neighborhood. Because of its history, it was named a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 2005. Later, in 2020, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is a special place recognized across the country.
| Top - 0-9 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
A Look Back: The Church's History
The Church of the Epiphany started a long time ago, in 1887. It began as a place for people to gather and worship. Over the years, the church buildings have changed and grown.
Building the First Church
The first church building was designed by an English architect named Ernest Coxhead. He used a style called Romanesque Revival style. This style often features round arches and strong, sturdy walls.
A New Sanctuary Is Built
In 1913, the original church building became the parish hall. A new main church building, called a sanctuary, was needed. Arthur Benton was chosen to design this new part. Benton's design mixed different styles. He used elements from Gothic Revival, Mission Revival, and Romanesque Revival. Inside, there is also a special pipe organ. It was made by a company called Henry Pilcher & Sons.
A Place for Change: The 1960s
The Church of the Epiphany became a very important place in the late 1960s. It was a center for people working for social justice. Many important events happened there.
Supporting Student Voices
In 1968, the church helped students plan the East L.A. walkouts. These were protests by students in East Los Angeles. They were asking for better education and more fairness in their schools. The church offered a safe place for them to meet and organize.
A Hub for Activism
The church also played a role in the Chicano Moratorium. This was a large protest against the Vietnam War. Many people gathered at the church to discuss their ideas. Cesar Chavez, a famous leader for farmworkers' rights, gave speeches in the parish hall.
Printing Important News
The basement of the church was also used for something special. A newspaper called La Raza was printed there. This newspaper shared important news and ideas with the Chicano community. It helped spread messages about their rights and culture.
Saving a Historic Treasure
Over time, old buildings need care and repair. The Church of the Epiphany is no different. People wanted to make sure this important building would last for many more years.
Starting the Restoration Work
In 2010, a group called the Epiphany Conservation Trust was formed. This non-profit group works to raise money to fix up the church. The restoration work is being led by a company from Los Angeles called Escher GuneWardena Architecture.
What Has Been Repaired So Far
Repairs started in 2011. So far, they have done important work on the parish hall. They have also fixed and restored four beautiful stained glass windows. This work helps keep the church strong and beautiful for future generations.
