Second Presbyterian Church: A South Loop Sanctuary of Art and History

Second Presbyterian Church, located in Chicago's South Loop, is a remarkable architectural and artistic treasure. Founded in 1842, the congregation has a rich history, reflected in its two landmark buildings. The current structure, a late Gothic Revival masterpiece designed by James Renwick Jr., was completed in 1874. Its exterior, crafted from distinctive limestone, hints at the beauty within.In 1900, a fire ravaged the church's interior, leading to a transformative redesign by architect Howard Van Doren Shaw in the Arts and Crafts style. This renovation resulted in one of the most well-preserved Arts and Crafts church interiors in America. The sanctuary features exquisite stained glass windows by Tiffany Studios and other notable artists, along with murals by Frederic Clay Bartlett, creating a harmonious and inspiring space. The church's collection includes twenty-one stained glass windows, nine of which are Tiffany windows dating between 1892 and 1918.Visitors can admire the 175 angels incorporated into the design in glass, wood and plaster, along with other recurring motifs like the grapevine and pomegranate. The church has a Hutchins-Votey organ that was reworked in 1917 by the Austin Organ Co. Second Presbyterian Church has played a significant role in Chicago's social and cultural history, attracting prominent families and serving as a community hub. Today, the church continues to be an active congregation and a welcoming space for all.Docent-led tours are available, offering insights into the church's architecture, art, and history. These tours provide a deeper appreciation for the intricate details and the stories behind the stained glass windows and murals.