St. Matthew's Episcopal Church (National City, California) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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St. Matthew's Episcopal Church
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 Location in San Diego
Location in San Diego County, California
Location in California
Location in the United States
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| Location | 521 E. 8th St., National City, California |
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| Area | 0.4 acres (0.16 ha) |
| Built | 1887 |
| Architect | William Herman |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 73000432 |
| Added to NRHP | October 25, 1973 |
St. Matthew's Episcopal Church is a very old church located at 521 East 8th Street in National City, California. It was built in 1887, which makes it over 135 years old! This church is still active today. It is part of the Episcopal Church, which is a Christian church. It belongs to the Diocese of San Diego.
Church Design and Style
The church was designed by an architect named William Herman from Chula Vista. He used an idea from another Chula Vista resident, "Mr. Crocker." Mr. Crocker was inspired by a picture of a small church he saw in England.
The church was built in the Gothic Revival style. This style looks back to the old Gothic churches of the Middle Ages. It also has some ideas from Tudor buildings, which were popular in England a long time ago. A very tall steeple was part of the design. This steeple was so tall that people could see it from many miles away!
A Look at the Church's History
The story of St. Matthew's Episcopal Church began on January 30, 1882. At that time, a group called the "Episcopal Society for National City" was formed. Frank Kimball, who helped start National City, was the secretary of this group.
On May 13, 1882, this society officially became St. Matthew's Parish Episcopal Church. Before the church building was ready, the members met in people's homes. Later, they met in a place called the Grange Hall. Priests from San Diego would come to lead their worship services.
A man named Elizur Steele gave the land for the church. Frank Kimball and his brother also helped. They donated a piece of property that was sold. The money from that sale was used to build the church.
The very first worship service inside the new church building happened on July 3, 1887. Since then, services have been held there regularly. The church was officially made sacred, or "consecrated," on October 24, 1890.
Recognized as a Historic Place
Because of its age and importance, St. Matthew's Episcopal Church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. This means it is recognized as a special building that should be protected for future generations.
