Chicago Illustrated June 1866
NORTH PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH—This stately edifice is located at the corner of Cass and Indiana streets, in the north division of the city, is built of red brick with stone trimmings, and is in all respects a solid and well-furnished structure. It is generally known as McCormick’s Church, Cyrus H. McCormick, Esq., being one of the original projectors and most liberal in donations to the society.
The main tower on the corner is 24 feet square at the base, and 104 feet high; the spire, which is octagonal, is 90 feet high—total height 194 feet. The turret at the opposite corner is 16 feet square and 100 feet high. The church is very handsomely and completely finished in the interior. It has an open timber roof, and the nave is 45 feet wide. The dimensions of the audience room is 71 feet wide, 90 feet long, 53 feet high in centre, and 30 feet at the sides. It contains seats for 1,100 persons. The basement contains a lecture room 42 x 60, together with several class-rooms, pastor’s study, ladies’ parlor, and connecting halls and vestibules. The main audience room is reached by three commodious halls and stairways—two in front and one on the side. It has galleries with pews on the sides, and a choir gallery over the vestibule. The height of the side walls is 43 feet; height from sidewalk to ridge of roof 80 feet. The Church is furnished with an excellent Organ.
The style of the building is Romanesque. W. W. Boyington, Esq., of Chicago, was the Architect and Superintendent.
The Society was organized under the auspices of Mr. McCormick, through whom the Rev. Dr. Rice was called to the pastoral cure of the Church. Dr. Rice’s great abilities commended him, notwithstanding the political tinge of his theology. After remaining in charge for a few years he left for Philadelphia. The Society is a large one, and of the most respectable social standing. It includes in its membership many wealthy and influential citizens.
The view includes a glimpse of the residence of Walter Kimball, Esq., of Chicago, which presents a charming appearance—the home of one of Chicago’s most respected citizens.
James W. Sheahan, Esq.,
June 1866.
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