First Church of Christ, Scientist (Riverside, California) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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First Church of Christ, Scientist
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 Location in California
Location in the United States
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| Location | 3606 Lemon St., Riverside, California |
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| Built | 1901 |
| Architect | Arthur Burnett Benton; F.L. Spaulding |
| Architectural style | Mission/Spanish Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 92001250 |
| Added to NRHP | September 22, 1992 |
The First Church of Christ, Scientist in Riverside, California, is a special historic building. It was built in 1901 and has a beautiful Mission Revival style. This church is located at 3606 Lemon Street. Many people say it was the first place to introduce Christian Science to Southern California. A famous architect named Arthur Burnett Benton designed it. On September 22, 1992, this church was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It is still an active Christian Science church today.
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A Look at Christian Science History
Christian Science is a religion founded by Mary Baker Eddy in 1866. The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Riverside has a long history. The first stone for the church building was laid on October 24, 1900. Construction finished quickly, and the building was ready by February 10, 1901. The very first Sunday service and dedication happened on February 24, 1901.
How Christian Science Came to Riverside
Christian Science actually arrived in Riverside much earlier. It was first introduced publicly about nine years before the church was built. The Christian Science Journal from October 1891 mentioned regular Sunday services. These early meetings took place in the home of Emma Stanton Davis. She was a student of Mary Baker Eddy and moved to Riverside in 1887. Emma Stanton Davis began helping people through healing work. Records show that Riverside was the first place in California where a student taught Christian Science classes.
The Church's Unique Architecture
The church's design is mostly in the Mission Revival style. This style was very popular in California. The famous architect, Arthur Burnett Benton, greatly influenced its look. He also designed other important buildings nearby.
Arthur Benton's Local Designs
Just one block from the church, you can find Benton's well-known Mission Inn. This building is famous around the world. He also designed the Riverside Municipal Auditorium. This auditorium is right next to the church property.
Inside the Church Building
The inside of the church was first designed in the Craftsman style. This meant it had natural wood with beams showing. In the 1950s, the wood and ceiling beams were covered. They were painted white with blue decorations. This change made the inside look more classic. It was probably a style the church members preferred at the time.
