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First Church of Christ, Scientist (Marshalltown, Iowa) facts for kids

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First Church of Christ, Scientist
1stChChrSciMarshalltownIA-068327pr.jpg
Seen in September 1977
First Church of Christ, Scientist (Marshalltown, Iowa) is located in Iowa
First Church of Christ, Scientist (Marshalltown, Iowa)
Location in Iowa
First Church of Christ, Scientist (Marshalltown, Iowa) is located in the United States
First Church of Christ, Scientist (Marshalltown, Iowa)
Location in the United States
Location 412 W. Main St., Marshalltown, Iowa
Area less than one acre
Built 1903
Architect Hugh M.G. Garden
Architectural style Prairie School
NRHP reference No. 79000915
Quick facts for kids
Significant dates
Added to NRHP 1979
Removed from NRHP May 22, 1998

The First Church of Christ, Scientist was a special church building. It was located at 412 West Main Street in Marshalltown, Iowa, United States. This building was designed by an architect named Hugh M.G. Garden. It was built in 1903.

The church was known for its unique Prairie School style of architecture. This style was popular in the early 1900s. It often featured strong horizontal lines and open spaces. The building was even listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. This is a list of important historical sites in the U.S. Sadly, the building was torn down in August 1985. Because of this, it was later removed from the National Register in 1998.

What Was the Prairie School Style?

The Prairie School was a type of architecture. It became popular in the Midwest United States. This style was used from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Architects wanted to create buildings that fit the flat landscape.

Key Features of Prairie School Buildings

Prairie School buildings often had certain looks. They usually had low-pitched roofs. There were also wide, overhanging eaves. These are the parts of the roof that stick out. Buildings in this style also featured strong horizontal lines. This made them seem to hug the ground.

They often used natural materials. These included wood, brick, and stone. Inside, the rooms were often open and connected. This was different from older styles with many small rooms. The goal was to make buildings feel part of their surroundings.

The Church's History

The First Church of Christ, Scientist was built in 1903. It served as a place of worship for many years. The architect, Hugh M.G. Garden, designed it with the Prairie School style in mind. This made it a notable building in Marshalltown.

Why It Was Important

The church was important for its architecture. It showed a good example of the Prairie School style. This is why it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Being on this list means a place is special. It has historical or architectural value.

Being on the National Register

The National Register of Historic Places is a list kept by the U.S. government. It helps to protect important buildings and sites. When a building is on the list, it means it's recognized for its history. It also means it's recognized for its design or cultural importance. The First Church of Christ, Scientist was added to this list in 1979.

The End of the Building

Even though it was historic, the church building was torn down. This happened in August 1985. After it was demolished, it could no longer be on the National Register. It was officially removed from the list in May 1998.

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