First Church of Christ, Scientist (Berkeley, California) facts for kids
|
First Church of Christ, Scientist
|
|
 |
|
 Location in Oakland, California
Location in California
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | 2619 Dwight Way, Berkeley, California |
|---|---|
| Built | 1910 |
| Architect | Bernard Ralph Maybeck |
| Architectural style | Mixed (more Than 2 Styles From Different Periods) |
| NRHP reference No. | 77000283 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | December 22, 1977 |
| Designated NHL | December 22, 1977 |
The First Church of Christ, Scientist in Berkeley is also known as the Christian Science Society, Berkeley. It is a Christian Science church building. You can find it at 2619 Dwight Way in Berkeley, right across from People's Park. The church has been meeting in this historic building for over 100 years.
History of the Church Building
The First Church of Christ, Scientist, Berkeley, held its first service in March 1905. At that time, they met in Wilkin's Hall. By October 1905, the church had 48 members. They bought a piece of land in June 1905. Their goal was to build a church there later on.
The famous architect Bernard Ralph Maybeck designed the church building. It was completed in 1910. The building mostly shows the American Craftsman style. However, it also has parts of Byzantine Revival, Romanesque Revival, and Gothic Revival styles. Many people consider this church one of Maybeck's best works.
The church's main shape is like a square or a Greek cross. It has two large crossed trusses (strong support beams) that go across the central area above. In 1929, a Sunday School addition was built next to the church.
A Special Landmark
In 1977, the church was named a National Historic Landmark. This means it is a very important historical place in the United States. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places in Alameda County, California.
In 2005, a group called the Friends of First Church Berkeley received a special grant. This grant helped them replace the roof and make the 1910 church stronger against earthquakes. They also worked on the 1929 Sunday School addition. In 2006, the church received another grant. This helped them finish making the church and Sunday School building safer. Later, in 2009 and 2010, the Friends of First Church Berkeley got more grants. These helped them restore the beautiful garden around the church.
See also
In Spanish: Primera Iglesia de Cristo, Científico (Berkeley) para niños
