Coconut Grove, Miami

Date of Erection:
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.

This is at 1653 South Bayshore Drive. This rock formation used to be under water years ago. This use to be the reef line. If you are travelling along SOuth Bayshore drive between downtown and Coconut Grove, the best places to see these formations is in front of houses from 15th avenue to approximately 20th Avenue. Good picture opportunity and a very over looked fact.

Just off of Main Highway in bustling downtown Coconut Grove, you can discover the atmosphere of the days of yore. The Barnacle State Historic Site contains the oldest home in Dade County in its original location. Situated on the shore of Biscayne Bay, the Barnacle was the home of Ralph Middleton Munroe, one of Coconut Grove's most charming and influential pioneers. The Florida Park Service acquired the remaining five acres of Munroe's original 40-acre homesite from his descendants in 1973. It is one of the best preserved historic sites you will find and a visit here provides a glimpse into the rich past of the Era of the Bay.
Visit their web page at http://www.abfla.com/parks/Barnacle/barnacle.html

The Barnacle State Historic Site
3485 Main Highway
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
(305) 448-9445

Monty's is great for the 'Happy hour' Pitcher of beer about $6.00 and assorted appetizers. Right on the water next to Montys Marina, great view,good food in an upstairs restaurant, raw bar downs stairs, nice crowd. South Bayshore Drive at Aviation Avenue.