First Church of Christ, Scientist (New York City) facts for kids
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First Church of Christ, Scientist
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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Former building of the First Church of Christ, Scientist in Manhattan, New York City
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 Location in New York City
Location in New York
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1 West 96th Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York, United States |
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| Built | 1903 |
| Architect | Carrère and Hastings |
| Architectural style | English Baroque, French Beaux-Arts |
| Part of | Central Park West Historic District (ID82001189) |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 9, 1982 |
The First Church of Christ, Scientist is a historic building in Manhattan, New York City. It was built in 1903 at the corner of Central Park West and 96th Street. This special building is officially recognized as a New York City landmark.
Contents
Building Design and Style
This beautiful building was designed by famous architects named Carrère and Hastings. It was finished in 1903. One expert called it "one of the city's most sumptuous churches."
Architectural Style
The church's design mixes two grand styles: English Baroque and French Beaux-Arts. English Baroque is a bold, dramatic style often seen in churches. French Beaux-Arts adds fancy details and a sense of importance.
Inside the Church
The inside of the church was very impressive. It had colorful stained-glass windows created by John LaFarge. One famous window, called "Touch Me Not," showed a scene from the Bible.
The building also featured shiny mosaics and gold-plated chandeliers. The floors were made of marble. Even the pews, where people sat, were special. They were curved and made from a fancy wood called Circassian walnut. There were even large elevators, big enough for 20 people, which were called "moving rooms."
Landmark Status
Because of its unique design and history, the church was named a New York City landmark in 1974. It is also part of the Central Park West Historic District, which is a group of important buildings.
What the Building is Used For Now
Over the years, the building has had different owners and uses.
Past Uses
In 2004, the building was sold to the Crenshaw Christian Center. The original church group joined another congregation. After nearly ten years, in 2014, the Crenshaw Christian Center sold the building. The new owners first wanted to turn it into apartments. However, this plan was not approved by the city.
New Home for a Museum
In 2018, the Children's Museum of Manhattan announced exciting news: they had bought the building! This means the historic church will become a fun and educational place for kids. In 2020, the city approved the museum's plans to renovate the building.
The Original Church Group
The First Church of Christ, Scientist congregation started in 1886. It was organized by a woman named Augusta Emma Stetson. The group met in rented spaces before their grand church building was constructed.
