Christian Church Proteau

First Christian Church, at North Gay Street and Fifth Avenue, is perhaps the only building designed by well-known Victorian architect George Barber and his son, Charles, working together. It was built between 1913 and 1915. George Barber (1854-1915), best known for his Victorian homes, died days after it was completed. Later that year, Charles Barber (1887-1962) co-founded the new and durable firm of Barber and McMurry. The church design, especially the six-pillar front, was reportedly inspired by famous New York architect Stanford White's Madison Square Presbyterian Church in Manhattan; considering that church was later torn down, this might be considered a survivor of that aesthetic. It also got attention for its California-Spanish additions, including an unusual courtyard. First Christian used the church for almost a century before moving to a more modest building in a suburban location. Postcard shared by Cindy and Mark Proteau. This church is the first stop on KHP’s North Knoxville Driving Tour.