Dedicated in 1906 Arlington Avenue Presbyterian Church stands as a testament to faith and community. The church now known as Presbyterian Church of the Crossroads has a rich history. Before this impressive structure existed the congregation worshipped in a smaller wooden church. It was built in 1893.
Arlington Avenue Presbyterian Church’s story began in 1889. The original church faced Elton Street. It could seat 400 parishioners. The new brick church cornerstone was laid on April 15 1905. The dedication took place on February 11 1906. The cost to build it was 30000 dollars.
Henry Rutgers Marshall designed Arlington Avenue Presbyterian Church. He studied under Henry Hobson Richardson. Richardson was a key figure in the Romanesque Revival movement. Marshall’s design reflects this influence. The building features brick terra-cotta and prominent arches. Look at the stained glass windows. They add to the church’s beauty.
Marshall’s architectural portfolio includes the First Congregational Church of Colorado Springs. It looks similar to Arlington Presbyterian. He also designed Naulakha. That was Rudyard Kipling’s home in Vermont. Marshall was also president of the AIA in New York City. He lectured at Columbia and Princeton. Surprisingly he was also a psychologist.
The Arlington Avenue Presbyterian Church was vital for wealthy residents. One parishioner Margaret Swift survived the Titanic disaster. The church’s large stained glass windows may be from Lamb or Tiffany Studios. Wealthy parishioners donated them. They were installed a few years after the church was built.
The impressive organ at Arlington Avenue Presbyterian Church was partly funded by Andrew Carnegie. He donated 1500 dollars. Notice the parish house on the site of the old wooden church. William Gompert designed it in 1916. Its terra-cotta details blend seamlessly with the church.
In 1967 David Hay worked for the church’s summer program. The church was known as Presbyterian Church of the Crossroads. The church continues to serve its community. It is a landmark of faith and architectural beauty. Its history connects it to the past. Its present keeps it relevant. The Arlington Avenue Presbyterian Church stands as a beacon of hope and community.