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 |
The First Congregational Church is a historic 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 an important part of the Heritage Hill Historic District.
Contents
A Look at the Church's History
How the Church Began
The church community started way back in 1838. Their first pastor was Reverend Horace Hutchinson. The group first met in the home of James G. Edwards. He was the person who published the local newspaper, the Burlington Hawk-Eye.
A Long-Serving Leader
Later, Reverend William Salter became the pastor. He served the church for a very long time, from 1846 to 1910. That's 64 years! Under his leadership, the church became very active in helping the community.
Making a Difference in the Community
The church worked on many important causes. They supported civil rights, which means fair treatment for everyone. They also helped with public education and creating free libraries. During Reverend Salter's time, the church strongly supported ending slavery. It was even a safe place for people escaping slavery on the Underground Railroad.
Joining a New Group
In the mid-1900s, many Congregational Christian churches joined together. They formed the United Church of Christ. However, the First Congregational Church chose not to join this new group. About 200 other churches also made this choice. They mainly decided this because of how their churches were run.
Instead, the First Congregational Church became part of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. This group was created in 1955. Today, the church is still a member of this national association. It also belongs to the Iowa-Nebraska Association of Congregational Churches. Plus, it's part of the Burlington Area Council of Churches.
The Church Building's Design
Building the Church
The church building itself was constructed between 1867 and 1870. It is made from a type of stone called dressed dolomite. The building shows off a style known as Gothic Revival. This style often looks like old European cathedrals.
Special Features of the Building
A very noticeable part of the church is its tall, square tower. This tower has a special top called a crenelated top, which looks like the top of a castle wall. The tower rises in three main sections. These sections are separated by stone bands called belt courses.
