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Stockton Springs Community Church facts for kids

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Stockton Springs Community Church
Stockton Springs Community Church.jpg
Stockton Springs Community Church is located in Maine
Stockton Springs Community Church
Location in Maine
Stockton Springs Community Church is located in the United States
Stockton Springs Community Church
Location in the United States
Location 20 Church St., Stockton Springs, Maine
Area 0.5 acres (0.20 ha)
Built 1853
Architect Rendell, S.A.; Biather, Alfred
Architectural style Greek Revival, Italianate
NRHP reference No. 85001266
Added to NRHP June 20, 1985

The Stockton Springs Community Church is a very old and special building in Stockton Springs, Maine. It was built way back in 1853. This church is famous for its unique artwork inside, called trompe-l'œil frescoes. It also shows a cool mix of two building styles: Greek Revival and Italianate. Because it's so important, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

What Makes This Church Special?

The Stockton Springs Community Church is found right in the middle of Stockton Springs. It's a one-story building made of wood, with a pointed roof. The outside looks very classic, with special columns at the corners and decorative supports under the roof.

Inside the Church: Amazing Art

When you step inside, it's like going back in time! The church still has its original seats and pulpit. The most amazing part is the artwork on the walls. These are trompe-l'œil frescoes. This French term means "trick the eye." The paintings make flat walls look like they have depth and real objects.

The artwork shows old-fashioned designs, like a grand arch over the pulpit. There are also beautiful Greek flower patterns on the ceiling. This special art makes the church feel very grand and unique.

History of the Church Building

The church was built in 1853 for a group called the Universalists. A talented artist from Boston named William Lawlor created all the amazing trompe-l'œil artwork.

This church is one of only four churches in Maine that have this kind of "trick the eye" artwork. It's also the oldest one of them! Since the 1930s, the church has been used by everyone in the community, no matter their religion. It's a place for people to gather and share.

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