CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- A 118-year old South Side church has been recommended for landmark status.
Hyde Park Union Church was built in 1906 at the corner of 56th and Woodlawn. The Commission on Chicago Landmarks had given a preliminary landmark designation in February that covered the outside of the building.
Hyde Park Union was designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque architecture style, as seen in the building’s rounded archways, gabled roof and rusticated stone walls — giving the structure a “sense of majesty and permanence,” according to a city staff report.
Susan van der Meulen, an architect and parishioner of Hyde Park Union, called the church “beautiful.”
“It has excellent architectural qualities and beautiful stained glass,” she said.
The Rev. Veronica Johnson, co-pastor at Hyde Park Union, described the church as “historic.” The staff is continually learning more about the building’s history and its connection to nearby University of Chicago.
Thursday’s recommendation would protect both the outside and historical and architectural features inside the church.
The recommendation now goes to the City Council for a vote. Hyde Park Union Church’s congregation celebrates its 150th anniversary later this year.
The Sun-Times Wire contributed to this report.
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