Gethsemane Evangelical Lutheran Church

Gethsemane Evangelical Lutheran Church is a wooden structure built in Carpenter Gothic style, featuring pointed arches and a central tower at the roofline. The interior contains original vertical board wainscoting, tall lancet-arched stained glass windows running along both sides, and a rear balcony that houses an organ.

The building was constructed in 1891 to serve German-speaking immigrants in the area. Over the following decades it transitioned from Lutheran to Baptist use, reflecting shifts in the neighborhood's population.

The building has served different faith communities over time, adapting to the changing needs of its neighborhood. Today it reflects the spiritual diversity that characterizes Detroit's residential areas.

The church sits on a residential street in Detroit and is easy to spot thanks to its distinctive wooden construction and tower. Since it remains an active place of worship, visitors should check ahead for access and visiting times.

This wooden church is the only known structure designed by the prominent architectural firm Spier & Rohns in this building material in Detroit. It stands as a rare example of the architectural range this firm explored in the city.

Location: Detroit

Architects: Spier & Rohns

Architectural style: Carpenter Gothic

GPS coordinates: 42.33780,-83.11000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:41