Woodward Avenue Presbyterian Church: A Historic Landmark of Detroit’s North Woodward Area

The Woodward Avenue Presbyterian Church, built in 1911 in Detroit, Michigan, is essential in the city’s history. Serving the congregants residing in what was once the north Woodward area, this English Gothic-style church stands as a testament to architectural excellence and spiritual heritage. Let’s delve into the intriguing story of this iconic structure and its journey through the years.

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Designed by the esteemed architect Sidney Badgley, the Woodward Avenue Presbyterian Church initially opened its doors to 163 members seeking spiritual guidance and community. As the years progressed, the church experienced substantial growth, with its membership soaring to over 2,200 by 1921. However, the 1950s witnessed a transformative shift as many congregants began migrating to the northern suburbs, leaving behind the urban core of Detroit.

By the early 1970s, the church’s membership had dwindled significantly, with only 404 members remaining. In 1981, seeking a new path forward, the Woodward Avenue Presbyterian Church merged with Covenant Church to consolidate its resources and revitalize its community outreach efforts.

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Unfortunately, despite the merger, the challenges persisted. Over time, the congregation continued to shrink, and in 2005, the Presbyterian church, now known as the Abyssinia Interdenominational Church, faced a severe blow with the passing of its pastor. This tragic event marked the end of an era for the church.

With the building left abandoned in the following years, the fate of the Woodward Avenue Presbyterian Church hung in the balance. However, even amidst its abandonment, the church’s architectural charm caught the attention of the entertainment industry. In 2011, the church’s interior was a captivating backdrop for the movie “Alex Cross,” adding another chapter to its storied history.

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While plans emerged a few years ago to transform the Woodward Avenue Presbyterian Church into a homeless shelter, today’s reality remains unchanged. The church stands among the many abandoned buildings that dot the landscape of Detroit, serving as a poignant reminder of the city’s history and challenges.

However, hope flickers on the horizon. In 2018, an information technology company acquired the church building with ambitious plans for restoration. Unfortunately, legal issues and a bribery case involving the company halted these plans, leaving the building’s future uncertain. As of 2020, there have been no significant updates regarding the much-awaited restoration.

The Woodward Avenue Presbyterian Church’s allure lies not only in its rich history but also in its remarkable architectural features. Constructed in the English Gothic Revival style, the church stands as a masterpiece of design. Its exterior showcases rough rock facing harmoniously adorned with contrasting limestone trim, capturing the era’s essence.

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Spanning an impressive length of 184 feet (56 meters) and width of 104 feet (31 meters), the church’s imposing presence cannot be ignored. Notable architectural highlights include a captivating entrance adorned with intricately carved stones and a magnificent stained glass window that fills the space with vibrant hues. The structure’s towers and the grand lantern dome above the auditorium further enhance its majestic appeal.

As we reflect on the Woodward Avenue Presbyterian Church’s past, present, and uncertain future, it becomes evident that this architectural gem holds immense significance. Its rich history, coupled with its striking design, makes it a symbol of Detroit’s heritage.

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Efforts to preserve and restore the Woodward Avenue Presbyterian Church are crucial in ensuring that future generations can appreciate its magnificence. By safeguarding this historical landmark, we honor the legacy of Detroit’s north Woodward area and create a bridge between the city’s storied past and its vibrant future.

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