Independent Congregational Church

The Independent Congregational Church is a Greek Revival church building with red brick walls located at 346 Chestnut Street in downtown Meadville. It features a prominent portico supported by Doric columns and occupies a modest footprint on its property.

The building was designed between 1835 and 1836 by George Washington Cullum, an engineer who would later gain prominence for designing Fort Sumter. It was recognized for its historical and architectural value and added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The congregation grew from roots established by Harm Jan Huidekoper and shaped local religious thought through its ties with Meadville Theological School. This church served as a gathering place where residents came together to practice their faith and participate in community spiritual life.

Visitors can access the building to view its classical architectural features and can easily locate it in downtown Meadville along Chestnut Street. The structure sits in a walkable neighborhood, making it convenient to visit alongside other local buildings from the same era.

The Historic American Buildings Survey documented this structure through photographer W.J. Bulger, preserving detailed records now held at the Library of Congress. This comprehensive archival work captures specific construction techniques and design elements that historians use to study churches from this period.