Preliminary landmark approved for Kingdom Baptist Church

The Commission on Chicago Landmarks has approved a preliminary landmark recommendation for the Kingdom Baptist Church. Located at 301 N. Central, the church is situated at the corner of W. Fulton St and N. Central Ave.

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. 

Lastly, the building meets Criterion 5 as a work of a significant architect. Nelson Max 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.

With excellent integrity on its exterior, the building also meets the separate Integrity Criterion. The church retains its historic location, environment, materials, and workmanship. Few alterations have been made, limited to the replacement of some of the roof surfaces, replacement of windows on the east end of the south and east facades, the installation of a chairlift and ramp, and the addition of a fence along the site’s perimeter.

With the preliminary recommendation, the significant features to be protected would be all exterior elevations including rooflines. The department will now prepare a final report before seeking the final landmark recommendation and sending it to City Hall to get approvals from the Committee on Zoning and City Council.