Beyond its striking Gothic Revival architecture, what stories does the Church of the Atonement in Chicago hold? Founded in 1888, the Episcopal Church of the Atonement began with Episcopalian families meeting in a Guild Hall. They decided to build a church in the Edgewater neighborhood. By November, the group became a mission congregation and chose the name Church of the Atonement.
The original cornerstone was laid in November 1889. The church was consecrated in June 1890. Frederick W. Keator, a lawyer-turned-minister, led the new mission. He served until 1896. In May 1898, the Mission became a self-supporting Parish. It had 120 members. Construction of the Parish House began soon after.
By the early 20th century, the parish grew. It became a leading Anglo-Catholic parish. Rector Charles E. Deuel oversaw an expansion. The original church building doubled in capacity. The parish had more than 500 members by then. J.E.O. Pridmore, a British-born parishioner, guided the expansion. He maintained the English Gothic style.
The first service after the expansion was on Easter in 1920. The parish then had 650 members. In 1922, a new Parish House was started and completed in 1924. Stained glass windows were added beginning in 1929. The final window was installed in 1946. The Christ the King window in the North Chapel is particularly notable. It is recognized as one of the best stained glass windows in Chicago.
Parishioner Henry Ives Cobb designed the original church building. He included a stone tower. He also planned for future expansion. Cobb was known for his English Gothic and Richardson Romanesque buildings. Pridmore’s expansion created the church we see today. The roof was raised and side aisles were added.
On the second level of the Parish House is the Elizabethan Room. It was brought from England in 1620. The paneling is registered with The Art Institute of Chicago. It is the only authentic example of its kind in the Midwest.
The Church of the Atonement has a rich history. It has evolved over the years to serve its community. From its architecture to its ministries, it reflects a commitment to faith and service. The church continues to be a welcoming presence in Edgewater. It serves God through prayer, worship, and outreach. Today, the Church of the Atonement stands as a testament to its enduring legacy.