Stewart Memorial Presbyterian Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Stewart Memorial Presbyterian Church
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![]() Stewart Memorial Presbyterian Church from the southwest
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Location | 116 East 32nd Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota |
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Built | 1910 |
Architect | Purcell & Feick |
Architectural style | Prairie School |
NRHP reference No. | 78001543 |
Added to NRHP | November 28, 1978 |
The Stewart Memorial Presbyterian Church is a special building in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It is now known as the Redeemer Missionary Baptist Church. This church is famous for its unique Prairie School style of architecture.
Most churches don't look like this one. It has a flat roof and wide eaves, which are parts of the roof that hang over the walls. It also doesn't have a tall bell tower, which many traditional churches have. The design was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's Unity Temple in Oak Park, Illinois. The church was designed by the firm of Purcell & Feick in 1910.
Contents
What is Prairie School Architecture?
Prairie School is a style of building design. It was popular in the early 1900s. Architects like Frank Lloyd Wright created this style. It focuses on horizontal lines, flat roofs, and open spaces. The goal was to make buildings fit in with the flat landscapes of the American Midwest.
How is This Church Unique?
The Stewart Memorial Presbyterian Church is special because Prairie School style was not often used for churches. Most churches at that time had tall steeples and lots of fancy details. This church looks more like a house or a public building from that era. Its simple, strong design makes it stand out.
Inside the Church
The main part of the church is shaped like a cube. This area is called the auditorium. Light comes in through a wall of green-tinted windows that face east. There is also a narrower section with a deep balcony. This balcony stretches out to the south.
Simple and Stylish Decorations
The inside of the church is not overly decorated. It uses simple designs. Most of the decoration comes from wood strips. These strips are arranged in cool geometric patterns. The outside of the church is made of brick and stucco.
History of the Church Building
The church was first built in 1910. It was named after Reverend David Stewart. The original congregation started from the First Presbyterian Church.
A Landmark Building
In 1978, the church was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is an important building in American history. In 1988, the Redeemer Missionary Baptist Church bought the building. They worked hard to restore and update it. They spent over $2 million to make sure the building would last for many more years.