Strickland's Church

Were you and I to stumble around Nashville on a Friday night as we made our way to Church Street, we would sooner or later come across a sight that might convince us the booze had gotten the best of us and that we were in some strange Egyptian afterlife. This vision towers over the corner of 5th Avenue and Church Street, and there is nothing in the entire nation that rivals its exotic allure.

Massive papyrus Corinthian columns stand like sentinels at the gates, dizzyingly tall towers frame the facade, and the blazing, winged sun ornaments this distinctive Nashville landmark. What I am describing is the Downtown Presbyterian Church, a lasting reminder of the cultural frenzies of the 19th century, and here is a little about this architectural treasure

The church is a monument to a cultural craze commonly referred to as Egyptomania, which was the result of the archaeological discoveries in Egypt throughout the 19th century. This was when Cleopatra’s Needle made its way to New York City, and for the first time, the modern Western mind was exposed to the ways of ancient Khemet. The artifacts and sketches from the Oriental Empire captivated curious and creative minds. Architects especially found a new muse in the temples and symbols of this ancient race, which brought fiery visions to their minds. They now had the chance to breathe new life into these ancient forms.

One of those architects was a gentleman named William Strickland (1788-1854) of New Jersey who would go on to become a pioneer in the revival of ancient architecture in the United States. After completing a number of glorious works in Philadelphia, he won the commission to build the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville and moved his family here in 1845. While in Nashville, Strickland would design a number of buildings, few of which still remain standing. In 1854, Strickland died before the completion of his most prominent work, the Tennessee State Capitol, within the walls of which his remains are interred.

The Downtown Presbyterian Church, as we know it today, was constructed from 1849 to 1851 and designed by Strickland. It is one of the finest examples of Egyptian Revival Architecture in the entire United States.  In 1871, the columns and entablature were added to the church, and the clear windows were replaced with stained glass. The first congregation had overbuilt and run out of money in the initial construction, leaving the interior plain gray. Between 1880 and 1952, the interior was enhanced, with the current interior color scheme done in 1892.

In 1913, a new pipe organ was added. In 1917, a large addition was constructed by Henry Clossen Hibbs, who also designed many buildings on the campus of Vanderbilt University, and Hibbs stayed true to Strickland’s original architectural inspirations. This addition is now the home office of The Contributor newspaper.

The church we see today is the third building that has stood on its footprint after the first two were destroyed by fires. The site has been the home to many historical events throughout our city's history. It was the home church of Andrew Jackson, where Polk held his gubernatorial inauguration, and even served as Nashville Union Hospital No. 8 during the Civil War.

I recommend everyone take some time to visit this amazing piece of architecture. If you visit on a Sunday, you will be able to see the interior, which is as awe-inspiring as the exterior. You can contact the church to arrange a public tour at 615-254-7584, or email info@dpchurch.com.