Cleveland Churches (the architecture and the rich history of)

I don't know when it dawned on me, but I finally realized one of the most amazing things about Cleveland and the inner-rings is the number of beautifully constructed churches. I could write a book about all I have seen and learned. As a matter of fact, I own a book all about churches in Cleveland and I think it's time to pull it out and read it cover to cover. I am working on taking some pictures of my favorite churches and posting them on Urbanohio in the coming weeks. One thing that prompted me to make a thread on the subject was the demolition of a gorgeous church on Superior Ave in downtown Cleveland. I don't think this thread should be about "church closings" but rather, the actual architecture and design of the churches, and also the re-adaptive use of some, be it partial or full demolition, expansion, or conversion. I hope we can talk about what churches we DO have and not mope on the one's that no longer exist. One church that saw new life, rather than emptiness was converted into residential on Euclid Heights Blvd. in Cleveland Heights. Another church on E. 33rd near Superior in Chinatown was converted into an art gallery - an excellent addition to the neighborhood!

One of my problems I have with our churches is remembering all of their names - there are simply so many that I find myself constantly remembering churches by location rather than by name. One that I do know by name is Epworth-Euclid on Chester, designed by Walker & Weeks. This will be the first one I visit for photography - both inside and out are stunning with detail. I hope this thread can turn into discussion, photo's, and other talk about the churches in NE Ohio.

I think all you Urbanohio'ers also need to check out the churches tucked away in Cleveland Heights, Shaker Heights, and Lakewood - some of the most gorgeous churches I've seen in all my life are in our suburbs! "St. Paul's Episcopal", on Fairmount in Cleveland Heights (designed by none other than the firm of Walker & Weeks) and St. James on Detroit Ave. in Lakewood - sadly this one is planned to close, but based on the architectural detail, this beauty will quickly have a new religion or use inside in no time.

Most importantly, I would love to see some discussion on here about all of our churches in NE Ohio. I must say this is one of Cleveland and NE Ohio's richest assets. And believe it or not, our middle-ring suburbs have a few modern masterpieces as well. I won't divulge, as you should find them for yourselves, but look to places like Highland Heights and Highland Hills for 2 great examples.