First Church of Christ

Title of Building: First Church of Christ
Address: 600 W. Jackson Street
Year Built: 1875
Architectural Style: Gothic Revival
National Register: Old West End Historic District; NR # 86002721; Listed 9/22/1986.

Thought to be Muncie’s oldest church, First Church of Christ has housed more than five different congregations throughout its nearly 150-year history. While initially constructed in 1875 [1] by the congregation of the First Christian Church, in 1897 they sold the lot to the Brethren Church who completely renovated the building.[2] Constructed almost entirely of brick by Parry and McCoy, the architect remains unknown. The building was re-dedicated in 1898, evidence of which can be seen on the chiseled stone near the top of the front façade.[3] In 1905, this building was again remodeled to add the attached apartments to the north.[4] The Brethren congregation continued to worship here through the mid-20th century, eventually outgrowing the small space in 1964.[5] This building was utilized by multiple churches over the next 50 years before it became vacant sometime in the mid-2010s. Currently, a local restoration artist owns this building and plans to restore it.[6]

[1] Haimbaugh, Frank D. History of Delaware County, Indiana. Historical Publishing Company, 1924.

[2] “Town News.” Muncie Evening Press, December 20, 1877.

[3] “Dedication To-Morrow.” Muncie Daily Times, June 4, 1898.

[4] “Church of the Brethren Begins Special Meetings.” Muncie Evening Press, June 7, 1912.

[5] ”Groundbreaking Held.” Muncie Star, November 2, 1964.

[6] “Ditch Lily Designs.” Accessed July 5, 2023. https://ditchlilydesigns.com.