Unitarian Universalist Church

The Unitarian Universalist Church is a two-story stone structure with cross-gabled roofs and a square turreted tower featuring dark stone decorative bands on its exterior walls. The building combines thick masonry with rounded arches and exhibits the heavy, fortress-like character typical of Richardsonian Romanesque design.

The building was designed in 1881 by the architectural firm Donaldson and Meier and completed in 1882 by local builders Walker Brothers. The structure received recognition on the National Register of Historic Places, acknowledging its important role in the region's architectural heritage.

The congregation that uses this building follows an open and progressive religious tradition welcoming visitors regardless of their beliefs. The interior reflects this approach with simple, functional spaces that invite reflection without overwhelming ornamental religious symbols.

The building sits in the downtown area and is easily reached on foot, with clear sightlines from several nearby streets. Visitors should note that the interior is only open during specific times, so it helps to check ahead for exact visiting hours.

During renovations in the 1980s, workers discovered a hidden Tiffany stained glass window from the 1890s that had been concealed since the 1930s. This find reveals how the building's appearance and use changed over the decades as different congregations adapted the space.

Location: Michigan

Architects: Donaldson and Meier

Architectural style: Richardsonian Romanesque

GPS coordinates: 42.28139,-83.74056

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:03