First Presbyterian Church of West Chester facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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First Presbyterian Church of West Chester
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First Presbyterian Church of West Chester, 1958
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | 130 W. Miner St., West Chester, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 0.3 acres (0.12 ha) |
| Built | 1832 |
| Architect | Walter, Thomas U. |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 72001111 |
| Added to NRHP | November 27, 1972 |
The First Presbyterian Church of West Chester is a very old and important church building. It is located at 130 West Miner Street in West Chester, Pennsylvania. This church was designed in 1832 by a famous architect named Thomas U. Walter. He later became the fourth Architect of the Capitol, which means he designed and oversaw important buildings in Washington, D.C. The church is built in a style called Greek Revival. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 because of its historical importance.
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Discovering the First Presbyterian Church
The First Presbyterian Church of West Chester is a special place with a rich history. It's not just a church; it's also a beautiful example of old architecture. The building is made of stone covered in stucco, which is a type of plaster. It is about 75 feet long and 45 feet wide. Over the years, some parts were added to the church in 1860 and again in 1955.
The front of the church looks very grand. It has a porch that is set back into the building. On either side of this porch are parts that stick out a little. These parts have "pilasters," which are like flat columns attached to the wall. This design gives the church a strong and classic look.
What is Greek Revival Architecture?
The First Presbyterian Church is built in the Greek Revival style. This was a very popular style in the United States during the early 1800s. Architects like Thomas U. Walter were inspired by the ancient temples of Greece.
Buildings in the Greek Revival style often feature:
- Columns: They might have tall, grand columns, or flat ones like the pilasters on this church.
- Simple Shapes: The buildings usually have clean, simple lines and shapes.
- Symmetry: One side of the building often mirrors the other side, making it look balanced.
- Grand Entrances: The front doors are usually impressive, sometimes with a porch or portico.
This style was chosen because it reminded people of ancient Greek democracy and ideals. It made public buildings and churches look important and strong.
Who Was Thomas U. Walter?
Thomas U. Walter was a very talented American architect. He was born in 1804 and passed away in 1887. He designed many important buildings throughout his career.
One of his most famous projects was designing the dome of the United States Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. This is the large, iconic dome you see on top of the Capitol building today. Because of his skill and experience, he was chosen to be the fourth Architect of the Capitol. This is a very important job where you are in charge of the design, construction, and care of the U.S. Capitol and other important government buildings.
So, when you look at the First Presbyterian Church, you are seeing the early work of an architect who would go on to design one of the most famous buildings in the United States!
Why is it on the National Register of Historic Places?
The First Presbyterian Church of West Chester was added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 27, 1972. But what does that mean?
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's historic places that are worth saving. It is managed by the National Park Service. When a building or site is added to this list, it means it has been recognized as important to American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture.
Being on the National Register helps to:
- Recognize History: It highlights places that tell important stories about our past.
- Protect Buildings: It encourages people to preserve and take care of these special places.
- Educate People: It helps people learn about the history and significance of these sites.
So, the First Presbyterian Church is not just a local landmark; it's recognized as a significant part of the wider history of the United States.
Images for kids
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January 2010
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Before 1923
