First Presbyterian Church (Vandalia, Illinois) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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First Presbyterian Church
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Front of the church
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 Location in Illinois
Location in the United States
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| Location | 301 W. Main St., Vandalia, Illinois |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1868 |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 82002534 |
| Added to NRHP | March 24, 1982 |
The First Presbyterian Church in Vandalia, Illinois, is a historic building. It used to be a church but is now a museum. You can find it at 301 W. Main Street. This church was built in 1868. It stands on the very spot where the first Protestant church in Illinois was built.
The first church on this site was called the House of Divine Worship. It was built in 1823 by the Illinois State Legislature. Back then, Vandalia was the capital city of Illinois. The governor's house was right next to this first church.
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History of the First Presbyterian Church
The First Presbyterian Church was built after the state capital moved to Springfield, Illinois. It was designed in the Gothic Revival style. This style often includes pointed arches and tall towers. The church is made of red brick.
What Does the Church Look Like?
The church has a tall bell tower that is about 60 feet high. It also has twelve beautiful Gothic pointed arch windows. Each window features an oval stained glass design. These designs show different religious scenes.
From Church to Museum
The Presbyterian church members moved to a new building in the 1960s. After they moved, the old church building became the Fayette County Museum. Now, visitors can learn about the history of the area inside this historic building.
National Recognition
The First Presbyterian Church building is very important. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 24, 1982. This means it is recognized as a special historic site.
Why is it on the National Register?
The church is one of only four sites in Fayette County, Illinois listed on the National Register. This shows its importance to the history of the state. It helps preserve a piece of Illinois's past.
