Grace Episcopal, as its known, is aptly named as it’s a graceful building, beckoning warmly to those who pass by. Its intriguing exterior sucks you in and begs you to walk inside the gate.
Even the fence and gates have character.
I love the little birds in the ironwork. Seriously, how charming is that?
*It’s actually the oldest church structure in our city. The original Episcopal Church was damaged during the Civil War when it was used as a hospital, so a new church was built after the war. Church history has it that the New York architect who designed it, Henry Congdon, drew up two sets of plans, one more expensive than the other. Church leaders intended to use the cheaper of plans but the wrong set of blueprints was used, leading to a larger more expensive church than expected. The church was eventually finished, but it took years to furnish it and for a long time the congregation used the old pews damaged by the mules and horses of Union soldiers. Its bell tower is one of its most beautiful assets, I think.
The old Carnegie library which burned in the mid-60’s left an empty lot next door which is now a church garden. It’s where I photographed Mama J. and Papa T. recently and is a lovely place to sit and meditate.
When snapping these pictures there, I met the gardener, John, and he takes his work very seriously. What a wonderful gentleman he was. It’s as if he understands the pull that building has on passersby and his role in preserving it. As a resident of this community I appreciate that. As a wanna be photographer, I really appreciate it.
*Source: Portrait of a River Town by Richard Holland
9 comments:
Great photos...I love old churches as well...something so peaceful about them.
I love the fence photo. All of them are very good though. It really is a quaint charming church.
I have always been amazed at that church. I went once with my neighbor when I was about 10 yrs old. I remember how odd it was to kneel and then sit back down. Heck, I went to LO Baptist Church. We don't do no kneeling there.
I have considered converting just to get to go there a few times a week! It just calms me when I look at it.
I love the iron work! And the tiles on the ceiling. That and the green grass too.
Love the photos and I believe I have seen that church a time or two! Possibly driving by it on our way to our off campus class *cough* really we're playing hookie *cough*. : )
Beautiful photos! And I love the rich history you provided about the church.
So lovely! Your photos do it justice, much more than the postcard in the book (which is nice in its own way). The pattern on the roof is such a nice detail!
Oh Hula - THANK YOU!!! Grace is my "home" church. Living hundreds of miles away and seeing this was like being there. Growing up with something you so often take things for granted (awwh, such is life). But your artistic eye caught such beautiful angles and objects. You brought it to life!! I hope you go inside, too. I think you will appreciate it. I read your blog daily, but today hit such a special chord. Thanks again!!!!
Post a Comment