First Congregational Church of Western Springs facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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First Congregational Church of Western Springs
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 Location in Illinois
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1106 Chestnut St., Western Springs, Illinois |
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| Area | 1.6 acres (0.65 ha) |
| Built by | Soderholm & Bodett |
| Architect | George Grant Elmslie |
| Architectural style | Late Gothic Revival, Prairie School |
| NRHP reference No. | 06000673 |
| Added to NRHP | August 8, 2006 |
The First Congregational Church of Western Springs is a special old church. A famous architect named George Grant Elmslie designed it. People think it's the best example of two cool building styles, Gothic Revival and Prairie School, in the whole town.
Contents
History of the Church Building
The First Congregational Church started in 1887 in Western Springs, Illinois. By 1921, the church community had grown a lot. They really needed a bigger building for everyone.
Choosing an Architect
So, in 1924, a special group was formed. Their job was to find the best architect for a new church. They talked to seven different architects. These architects came from big cities like Chicago and St. Louis.
In 1926, the group chose George Grant Elmslie. They loved his ideas for the new church. Elmslie had just started his own architecture business in Chicago. The church committee really liked another building he designed, the Capitol Building and Loan Association. They hoped their new church would look similar.
Building Design and Styles
The committee first wanted a Gothic Revival style church. This style often has tall arches and stained glass. Elmslie drew up a very fancy Gothic design. But the committee soon realized it would be too expensive.
Elmslie then offered a new design. This one mixed Gothic elements with the Prairie School style. The Prairie School style was popular in the Midwest. It often uses natural materials and has a strong horizontal look.
Construction of the church finished in 1930. The main sanctuary and the Education Building were completed. Both buildings show a mix of Gothic and Prairie styles.
Gothic and Prairie Features
The church has many Gothic features. For example, it has a cruciform floor plan. This means the building is shaped like a cross. It also has beautiful stained glass windows. These windows were made by the Temple Art Glass Company in Chicago.
The church also shows many Prairie School elements. It has a strong horizontal feel, meaning it looks wide and low. There are also lots of wooden decorations. The colors used are earthy tones, and natural materials were chosen. A sculptor named Emil Zettler carved statues and other decorations for the church.
Later Additions and Recognition
In 1959, Herbert and William Brand designed an addition. This new part was built north of the Education Building.
The church was later studied as part of the Illinois Historic Structures Survey. On August 8, 2006, it was officially recognized. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places by the National Park Service. This means it's an important historic building!
