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 and important church located at 521 East 8th Street in National City, California. It was built a long time ago, in 1887. Today, it is still a busy church that belongs to the Episcopal faith. It is also part of the larger Diocese of San Diego.
Church Design and Style
This beautiful 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 had seen a picture of a small church in southern England and was inspired by it.
The church was built in a style called Gothic Revival. This style brings back ideas from medieval Gothic churches, often seen in castles and cathedrals. It also has some influences from Tudor design, which was popular in England during the Tudor period. A very tall steeple on the church used to be a landmark that people could see from many miles away.
History of St. Matthew's
The story of St. Matthew's Episcopal Church began on January 30, 1882. On that day, a group called the Episcopal Society for National City was formed. The secretary of this group was Frank A. Kimball, who was also the founder of National City.
Just a few months later, on May 13, 1882, the society officially became St. Matthew's Parish Episcopal Church. Before the church building was ready, the members met in their homes. Later, they gathered at the Grange Hall for worship. Priests from San Diego would come to lead their services.
A man named Elizur Steele generously donated the land for the church building. Frank A. Kimball and his brother also helped by donating another piece of property. This property was sold, and the money from the sale was used to help build the church.
The very first worship service inside the new church building happened on July 3, 1887. Since that day, services have been held there regularly without interruption. The church was officially dedicated and made sacred on October 24, 1890.
A Historic Landmark
Because of its importance and age, St. Matthew's Episcopal Church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. The National Register is a list of places in the United States that are important to history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. Being on this list helps protect these special places.
See also
In Spanish: Iglesia Episcopal de San Matías (National City) para niños
