First United Methodist Church is a nice example of Romanesque Revival in America. I’ve never actually seen any churches in Europe that look like this, but it’s more about the inspiration.
I love the terracotta detail on the tower; we really don’t see towers like this in St. Louis.
The little turret on the back is interesting as well. Sort of just pictureque in motivation.
But the awesome Modernist wing out back is really great as well.
A couple of blocks away is the former First Presbyterian Church, now converted into the Vandalia Historical Society.
It’s a severe, Gothic structure, largely devoid of ornamentation.
I was fascinated by the giant, completely exposed arch structure on the interior that clearly holds up the tower. Why is it left like this? It’s usually wrapped in walls and hidden in other churches.
wi