The Commission on Chicago Landmarks approved the Final Landmark Recommendation for the Kingdom Baptist Church

“Meeting Criterion 1 for its value as an example of city heritage, the church was built as the 15th Church of Christ Scientist over a series of three phases commenced in 1926 and completed 17 years later in 1943 by architect Nelson Max Dunning.

“In 1972, the origins of Kingdom Baptist Church began as a small group met in the home of Pastor James A. Horton. As a pastor at Greater Union Baptist Church, he left after a divide in the congregation and originated Kingdom Baptist Church. They purchased the 15th Church of Christ Scientist building and held the first service there in 1973.

“Also meeting Criterion 4 for its exemplary architecture, the building’s design highlights the evolution of architectural styles over its construction including neoclassical and art deco elements. The front facade faces west and is defined by a monumental portico with a series of short steps to raise it above grade. Limestone columns with Corinthian columns support the limestone entablature.

“By 1931, the design was streamlined, and elements of the original neoclassical design were eliminated. Roofline ornament was removed and replaced with a more linear design popular in the art deco style. The south facade facing W. Fulton St is dominated by three story limestone arcade frames with arched windows that light the auditorium. The arches are joined by an elongated keystone. Adjacent to the arcade frames is a projecting vestibule with arched entrances. The facade setbacks above it with punched window openings.

“Dunning was born in Wisconsin and worked in Chicago, becoming known for his specialization in large scale industrial, commercial, and educational buildings. One of his most notable works is the American Book Company Building 1912 at 330 E Cermak, with others including the American Furniture Mart at 680 N. Lake Shore and the 14th Church of Christ Scientist at 4444 N Paulina.” (Kugler, Urbanize Chicago, 11/8/24)

The American Book Company Building, was a Preservation Chicago—Chicago 7 Most Endangered, prior to it becoming a Chicago Landmark, and N. Max Dunning, the architect of both the church and book company building worked in the office of Solon S. Beman.

Read the full story at Urbanize Chicago

• Final landmark recommendation approved for Kingdom Baptist Church; The building at 301 N. Central was completed in 1943, Lukas Kugler, Urbanize Chicago, 11/8/24
• Preliminary landmark approved for Kingdom Baptist Church; The building at 301 N. Central was completed in 1943, Lukas Kugler, Urbanize Chicago, 9/19/24