First Congregational Church (Burlington, Iowa) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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First Congregational Church
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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The First Congregational Church in 2013.
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 Location in Iowa
Location in the United States
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| Location | 313 N. 4th Street Burlington, Iowa |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1867–1870 |
| Architect | C.A. Dunham William Salter |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
| Part of | Heritage Hill Historic District (ID82000406) |
| NRHP reference No. | 76000763 |
| Added to NRHP | November 21, 1976 |
First Congregational Church is an important building in Burlington, Iowa, United States. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. This means it is a special place recognized for its history. The church is also a special part of the Heritage Hill Historic District.
A Church with a Big Heart
The church community, called a congregation, started in 1838. Their first pastor was Rev. Horace Hutchinson. The group first met in the home of James G. Edwards. He was the person who published the local newspaper, Burlington Hawk-Eye.
Later, Rev. William Salter became the pastor. He served the church for a very long time, from 1846 to 1910. Under his leadership, the church was very active in helping people. They worked on social issues and civil rights. They also supported public education and free libraries for everyone.
This church was a strong supporter of ending slavery. This movement was called abolitionism. The church was even a stop on the Underground Railroad. This was a secret network that helped enslaved people find freedom.
In the 1950s, some Congregational churches decided to merge. This church chose not to join the new group. They wanted to keep their own way of making decisions. Today, the church is part of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches.
The Church Building's Look
The church building itself was built between 1867 and 1870. It is designed in the Gothic Revival style. This style looks a bit like old European castles and cathedrals. The church is made from cut stone called dressed dolomite.
A tall, square tower stands out on one corner of the church. The top of the tower has a crenelated design. This means it has a top like the walls of a castle, with gaps and raised parts. The tower rises in three main sections. These sections are separated by stone bands called belt courses.
