The First Congregational Church of Ovid is a religious building in Ovid, Michigan. It was designated a Michigan State Historic Site in 1971[2] and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.[1] Registered Site #: Local Site #0114
History
In 1871, 22 people began Ovid's First Congregational Church with minister Reverend William Mulder.[2] The next year, the congregation hired master carpenter George Fox to construct this building at the corner of High and Park Streets. In 1876, a bell was installed in the belfry. In 1899, with a growing congregation, the structure was moved to its current location and enlarged,[2] adding a basement and two porticoes.[3] In 1843, the Congregational and Methodist churches merged, using both buildings until 1972.[2] In 1979, this church became a private residence.[citation needed]
Description
The First Congregational Church of Ovid is a frame Gothic Revival structure,[2] in a modified T-plan.[3] The original section measures 34 feet (10 m) by 58 feet (18 m); later additions increase the size. It has a gable roof and clapboard-covered walls with pilaster strips at the corners.[3] The 75 feet (23 m) tall, three-stage two-story square tower topped with an octagonal belfry contains unique decorative touches.[2][3] Gothic elements include tall, narrow arch-top windows and a rose window.
