Was it unusual for Minneapolis to embrace a church with architectural flair? The First Church of Christ Scientist stood as a testament to unique design. It was the first Christian Science church in Minnesota. Let’s delve into its story.
Christian Science gained traction after its presentation at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. Unlike traditional religious buildings, Christian Science churches embraced diverse architectural styles. The style depended on the region.
The Christian Science movement formally organized in Minneapolis in 1890. It experienced rapid growth. By 1910, three of their churches ranked among the state’s largest Protestant congregations. This shows a significant impact.
This particular church was built in 1897. Septimus J. Bowler, a self-taught architect from London, designed it. He moved to Minneapolis in 1888. His Beaux-Arts design, showcasing the Doric order, won against six other submissions. The design was scaled down to complement the neighborhood. Burton Hall at the University of Minnesota shares a similar style.
The church’s construction featured stone, Twin Cities cream-pressed brick, and terracotta trim. A temple front with Doric columns and a deep portico defined the exterior. Greek crosses carved into the upper belt course provided subtle details. The building’s footprint formed a cross shape. Originally, a monumental stairway graced the front. However, it was later removed.
Inside, the church boasted an Italian Renaissance style. A wide vestibule opened into a large, octagonal auditorium that extended to the second story. A vaulted ceiling created an illusion of a dome. Exposed wooden trusses were above. Stained glass windows, transitioning from clear to orange, lined the walls. An addition for Sunday School was added in 1899.
Sadly, time took its toll on the First Church of Christ Scientist. It needed substantial repairs when it was designated a historic landmark. The church was vacated in 2001. Due to neglect and lack of maintenance, it was demolished in 2022.
Though gone, the First Church of Christ Scientist remains an important landmark. It reminds us of the diverse architectural and religious history of Minneapolis. It stood at 614-20 15th Street East in Elliot Park. The First Church of Christ Scientist was a unique piece of Minneapolis’ past.