Didn’t congregants want a traditional cathedral with modern elements? The First United Methodist Church of Glendale is an architectural marvel. It blends seemingly contradictory visions. The church stands as a distinctive landmark of Glendale Modernism.
Completed in 1961 the Glendale First Methodist Church boasts a traditional cruciform plan. It features a central nave side transepts and a chancel. The height and monumentality echo a Gothic cathedral. Tall concrete columns and abundant stained glass are expected.
But the Glendale First Methodist Church does it all in a wonderfully expressive Mid-Century Modern style. A folded roof uses thin-shell concrete. Simple vertical lines and minimalist exterior masonry cladding complete the look. The result is truly spectacular.
Look up. A 112-foot-high three-legged concrete tower stands watch. It’s called the Trilon. This marks the Glendale Church’s location. The Trilon is visible across much of the city. It stands proudly in front of the church.
Step inside the Glendale First Methodist Church. Notice the interior dappled with multicolored light. Forty-foot-high stained glass windows create this effect. John Wallis of Pasadena’s Wallis-Walley glass studio created them. Jean Whinnery a Flewelling and Moody firm member also contributed.
The Glendale First Methodist Church is an icon of Modern design in Glendale and deservedly so. The congregants commissioned this landmark. They wanted a traditional cathedral. But they also welcomed modern elements. The architects did not disappoint.
Flewelling and Moody responded with a true melding of visions. The Glendale First Methodist Church resulted. It is a distinctive landmark. This intact church building is truly spectacular. It deserves to be an icon.
Glendale itself is a city brimming with history and culture. It is nestled in the Verdugo Mountains. Glendale offers a vibrant mix. There is urban excitement and natural beauty. The city has a rich Armenian heritage and iconic shopping destinations. Glendale has something for everyone.
Glendale was incorporated on February 16 1906. The city was named after the Scottish word Glendale. Glendale means valley. The area was originally inhabited by the Tongva people. They called it Hahamongna.
Glendale has one of the largest Armenian communities in the United States. Nearly 40% of the city’s population is of Armenian descent. The city celebrates Armenian Independence Day every September 21. There are various events and festivities.
The Alex Theatre built in 1925 is a historic performing arts venue. It hosts concerts plays and film screenings. The Americana at Brand is a large outdoor shopping center. It attracts visitors from all over Southern California.
The Verdugo Mountains provide a scenic backdrop. Numerous hiking trails are available for outdoor enthusiasts. Brand Park is a 31-acre park. It features a Japanese Friendship Garden a library and various recreational facilities. Glendale offers both cultural and natural beauty.