Grand Boulevard’s St. Paul Christian Methodist Episcopal Church was officially designated as a Chicago landmark by City Council on May 20.
The designation recognizes the church’s architectural and historical significance in the city. The Tudor Revival building at 4644 S. Dearborn Street, completed in 1925, is notable for being the first and only dedicated house of worship for St. Paul C.M.E., which was established in 1907 and is the oldest Christian Methodist Episcopal congregation in Chicago.
Designed by Ecklund, Fugard and Knapp, the church reflects traditions of the Methodist faith and drew inspiration from the former headquarters of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Jackson, Tennessee. The new status protects all exterior elevations of the church building.
The designation aligns with broader efforts to enhance walkable neighborhoods and promote historic preservation throughout Chicago, according to the official website. The Chicago Department of Planning and Development (DPD), led by Commissioner Ciere Boatright, has more than 150 staff members focused on advancing growth policies, sustainability initiatives, zoning regulations, business development support, community enhancements, and historic preservation within Chicago.
The department centers its operations on improving both built and natural environments across neighborhoods in Chicago while supporting accessibility to waterfronts as part of its comprehensive approach to urban planning.
