Didn’t First Church of Christ, Scientist, Seattle, stand here once? Now known as The Sanctuary, this building has quite the story. It stands on the corner of East Denny Way and 16th Avenue. This is in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood.
The Sanctuary started as a vision for a new church. The First Church of Christ, Scientist congregation was growing. They needed a bigger space. Construction began around 1906. It was designed in the Classical Revival style. Bedford limestone was used.
Before The Sanctuary, the congregation met in rented halls. They even had a church on 6th Avenue and Marion Street. But by 1906, that wasn’t enough. So, they bought the Denny Way property. Services were held in a temporary wooden structure. This was on the new church’s foundation.
The Sanctuary has seen many changes. In 1977, it became a City of Seattle historic landmark. But in 2006, the congregation decided to move. They wanted a more active urban location in South Lake Union. The building was sold to a developer.
Today, The Sanctuary is a townhouse project. The developer converted the historic church. First Church of Christ, Scientist, Seattle, still exists. They hold services on Thomas Street. They are part of the Christian Science Mother Church.
The Sanctuary’s transformation is remarkable. From a church to townhouses, it has adapted. It stands as a testament to Seattle’s changing landscape. It is a blend of history and modern living.
Imagine the church services held here. Think about the hymns echoing through the halls. Now, picture modern families living within these walls. The Sanctuary has witnessed countless moments. It is a place of community and change. The Sanctuary is more than just a building. It is a piece of Seattle’s history. It shows how the city evolves while preserving its past.