First Methodist Church of Batavia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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First Methodist Church of Batavia
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 Location in Illinois
Location in the United States
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| Location | Batavia, Kane County, Illinois, United States |
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| Built | 1852 |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 82002546 |
| Added to NRHP | March 19, 1982 |
The First Methodist Church of Batavia is a historic building located in Batavia, Illinois. It started as a Methodist church in 1852. Later, in the 1880s, it became the McWayne School Annex, where students learned until 1978. This special building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 because of its important history.
The Story of the First Methodist Church
The town of Batavia, Illinois began to be settled in the 1830s. In 1834, two of the first Methodists to arrive were Henry Lyon and Allison Speer. A year later, William VanNortwick, another Methodist, joined them. He let church services be held in his home.
As Batavia grew, more and more people joined the church. Soon, the group became too big to meet in a house. So, plans were made to build a proper church building. The First Methodist Church of Batavia was built in 1852. It cost about $6,000, which was a lot of money back then!
From Church to Schoolhouse
In 1854, Reverend E. H. Gammon became the first minister of the church. Later, he became very wealthy from his work in agricultural machinery. He offered money to build a brand new, larger church.
Once the new United Methodist Church of Batavia was finished, the original church building was sold. The Batavia Community School District bought it. They turned the old church into the McWayne School Annex. It was used as a school for many years.
In 1978, the school district opened two new schools. They planned to tear down the old McWayne School Annex. But luckily, the building was saved! The Buttrey-Wulff-Mamminga Agency, Inc. bought it that same year. Because of its long history and unique design, it was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 19, 1982.
What Makes it Special?
The First Methodist Church of Batavia is built in the Greek Revival style. This means it looks a bit like ancient Greek temples. It was made from limestone found right there in the local area.
The building still has its original wooden gable, which is the triangular part at the end of the roof. However, it has been covered with asphalt to protect it. When the building became a school, its bell tower was removed.
You can see Doric pediments on the north and south sides of the building. These are triangular shapes above the entrances, supported by columns. Inside, there are eight wooden columns that add to its classic look.
