Coconut Grove, Miami
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Off the Beaten Path in Miami: Coconut Grove tips and photos posted by real travelers and Miami locals.
Coconut Grove
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on August 16, 2007
1916-1917
The architect was Clinton McKenzie of New York.
Plymouth Congregational Church is significant for its association with the early
development of Coconut Grove. In addition, the church is an outstanding
example of Spanish Mission style architecture and is particularly noteworthy for
the excellence of its design, details, materials, and craftsmanship.
Organized in 1897, Plymouth Congregational Church was founded by some of
the most influential pioneer citizens of Coconut Grove. Solomon G. Merrick,
father of George Merrick who developed Coral Gables, became pastor in 1901
and was the first Congregationalist minister to serve the Church. Plymouth
Church expanded rapidly as Coconut Grove developed and outgrew two
chapels before erecting the present structure in 1916.
Plymouth Congregational Church is also significant as an outstanding example of
Spanish Mission style architecture. The building’s twin bell towers, curvilinear
gable roof, and elaborate front entrance are important elements of the entire
composition. Also noteworthy is the building’s stonework, laid by a single
stonemason, a Spaniard named Felix Rebom.
The Church was constructed as a one story rectangular structure. Topped with a gable roof covered with corrugated clay tiles, the building is constructed of native oolitic limestone.
The southeast (front) façade is highlighted by a curvilinear gable surmounted by twin bell towers. The main entrance is located in the center bay and features an enriched classical door surround. The door itself is approximately 375 years old and came from a monastery in the Pyrenees Mountains. Made of hand carved walnut backed with oak, it still retains its original hand wrought iron fittings.
Smaller doorways on either side of the main entrance lead to side loggias which enclose the interior. The church was enlarged in 1954 by the addition of two transepts and a new chancel. This addition, designed by Robert Law Weed, changed the plan of the church from rectangular to cross-shaped.
