Calvary Presbyterian Church, Milwaukee
Calvary Presbyterian Church, also known simply as Calvary Church, is a striking example of Victorian Gothic architecture in the heart of Milwaukee. Located in the Marquette University district, this historic church has stood since 1870 and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1986.
Calvary Church was founded in 1869 by members of Milwaukee鈥檚 First and North Presbyterian congregations who wanted a church closer to the city鈥檚 west side. Among its founding officers were notable businessmen John Plankinton, James B. Bradford, and Samuel C. West. The building was designed by local architects Henry C. Koch and Julius Hess and constructed by a team of prominent artisans, including builder Simeon Babcock and mason Hiram R. Bond.
Architecturally, the church is a Gothic Revival masterpiece. Built on a limestone foundation, its body features Milwaukee鈥檚 signature cream city brick鈥攏ow painted bright red鈥攁ccented with Ohio sandstone. The structure is flanked by two dramatic towers: one reaching 105 feet with a pressed metal spire, and the other an impressive 202 feet with a slate-clad spire. Between them, a large rose window crowns the main entrance, inviting worshippers and visitors alike.
Over time, the church has seen several additions and restorations. In 1910, a pastor鈥檚 study and office were added, and following a fire in 1947, repairs were made to the nave and roof. A classroom wing was added in 1957. Inside, one of the church鈥檚 most unique features is its indoor prayer labyrinth, modeled after the medieval design at France鈥檚 Cathedral of Chartres, with eleven circuits and a rosette center.
Today, Calvary Presbyterian Church remains one of Milwaukee鈥檚 oldest continuously used church buildings and one of its best-preserved post-Civil War Gothic structures. It continues to serve both as a place of worship and a testament to the city鈥檚 religious and architectural heritage.
Calvary Church was founded in 1869 by members of Milwaukee鈥檚 First and North Presbyterian congregations who wanted a church closer to the city鈥檚 west side. Among its founding officers were notable businessmen John Plankinton, James B. Bradford, and Samuel C. West. The building was designed by local architects Henry C. Koch and Julius Hess and constructed by a team of prominent artisans, including builder Simeon Babcock and mason Hiram R. Bond.
Architecturally, the church is a Gothic Revival masterpiece. Built on a limestone foundation, its body features Milwaukee鈥檚 signature cream city brick鈥攏ow painted bright red鈥攁ccented with Ohio sandstone. The structure is flanked by two dramatic towers: one reaching 105 feet with a pressed metal spire, and the other an impressive 202 feet with a slate-clad spire. Between them, a large rose window crowns the main entrance, inviting worshippers and visitors alike.
Over time, the church has seen several additions and restorations. In 1910, a pastor鈥檚 study and office were added, and following a fire in 1947, repairs were made to the nave and roof. A classroom wing was added in 1957. Inside, one of the church鈥檚 most unique features is its indoor prayer labyrinth, modeled after the medieval design at France鈥檚 Cathedral of Chartres, with eleven circuits and a rosette center.
Today, Calvary Presbyterian Church remains one of Milwaukee鈥檚 oldest continuously used church buildings and one of its best-preserved post-Civil War Gothic structures. It continues to serve both as a place of worship and a testament to the city鈥檚 religious and architectural heritage.
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Calvary Presbyterian Church on Map
Sight Name: Calvary Presbyterian Church
Sight Location: Milwaukee, USA (See walking tours in Milwaukee)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Milwaukee, USA (See walking tours in Milwaukee)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
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