From past to present

Factors far beyond La Crosse influenced the look and
layout of the new sanctuary. The state’s expanding Episcopal community prompted formation of a northwestern diocese. As a potential site for its headquarters, Christ Church was built along the lines of a cathedral. Features appropriate for a bishop’s seat were included, such as a prominent spire and a throne in the sanctuary. 

M.S. Detweiler, an architect from Columbus, Ohio, designed the church but died during its construction. Cleora (aka Cleoria) Bacheller - the only female building contractor in Wisconsin and one of few in that trade in the country - guided the project to completion in 1899.

Rough cut, buff-colored limestone quarried for walls and a massive tower came from surrounding bluffs, including Grandad Bluff, the site of Breck's service. Columns, arches, and other decorative trim were carved from red Michigan sandstone.

Christ Church is laid out in the shape of a cross. Its Romanesque Revival style mirrors famous European churches. The Venetian Renaissance style of the interior was popular in the 1890s. The church was also noted for its extensive electrical system and lighting at that time. 

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Stained glass artistry surrounds worship

For decades, Christ Church has housed a celebration of scripture wrought in glass and metal by American artisans. A dramatic interpretation of Christ’s transfiguration dominates a south transept window. It was designed by Tiffany Glass and Decorating of New York in 1898. Senator Angus Cameron’s wife (herself a famous local advocate of women’s rights) donated this stunning work to honor her late husband.

In 2005, the multi-layered window was removed, piece by
piece, and driven to a Virginia art glass studio for restoration. Thick plywood filled the space for many months. After the window was reinstalled, sunlight once more revealed details that had been obscured by soot, dust, and many a Wisconsin winter.

Directly across the sanctuary, the Beatitudes are depicted in hues of deep blue and red leaded stained glass in the north transept. This window was designed by the firm of Charles J. Connick of Boston. It was donated by Mrs. Frank P. Hixon in memory of her husband, a vestryman of the church and a local leader in the lumber industry.

Both families were equally interested in natural beauty.
The Hixon family bought land adjacent to Grandad Bluff
to preserve it as a public park and forest. The Camerons dedicated a downtown public park where a farmers’ market now offers locally produced foods in season. 

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Accommodating a modern congregation

Increased demand for more modern space and facilities led to construction of Vinter Hall in 1962. It houses church offices, meeting and Sunday school rooms, and an elevator. This addition made it possible for Christ Church to host community organizations and charities, events, concerts, parish meetings, and diocesan conventions.

 

Renovation of the undercroft (the church’s lower level) and kitchen in 2005-2006 improved its capacity for events, hospitality, and fellowship. The Undercroft Gallery displays local artists’ work as well as icons painted by those seeking to experience the spiritual benefits of that ancient art.

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As faithful stewards of this landmark, as well as the rivers and bluffs that have drawn people to this valley for more than 200 years, Christ Church members support all efforts to protect and preserve these treasures. By serving as the hands, hearts, and faces of Christ in everyday life, we will help La Crosse thrive for generations to come.