I’ve always been intrigued by the massive Modernist churches of downtown Kirkwood. It seems in the 1950s all of the major congregations decided to rebuilt, perhaps reflecting the burgeoning population of the suburb. The first church, First Presbyterian Church of Kirkwood, takes on a Modernist/Gothic Revival form, which seems common in the St. Louis area.
I believe the tower below was from the original church, presumably demolished for the new one.
Kirkwood Methodist Church is another stunning church, with its soaring roofline and belltower.
The composition is simple, but it works well.
I love the belfry, though I wish it were not scarred by the inclusion of cellphone transmitters. The gentle articulation of shingles around the base of the tower is a nice touch.
Just trawling organ music on Youtube when I came across the Casavant organ in First Presbyterian Church, Kirkwood. A picture of part of the building left an immediate impression, confirmed by the fine images on your site here.
Magnificent building from every angle: no show, no fuss, but bold and unapologetic, with hints of the ancient stone tithe barns found here in Britain—the nearest being at Great Coxwell, Berkshire, only 17 miles from where I’m writing this.
Many thanks.