News Summary
The historic Medical Arts Building in Chattanooga is facing demolition as First Presbyterian Church plans to construct a new facility. The nearly 100-year-old building, notable for its Art Deco style and significance to the community, has sparked public outcry and calls for preservation from residents and historic groups. With its planned destruction, the future of this architectural landmark remains in question.
Chattanooga
The historic Medical Arts Building on McCallie Avenue in Chattanooga is facing demolition as the First Presbyterian Church, which owns the structure, seeks to create new facilities better suited for its worship and operational needs. The announcement regarding the building’s impending demolition was made public around Christmas 2024 and has gained increased media attention in recent weeks.
The church leadership claims the nearly 100-year-old building, originally purchased in 1978, no longer meets the requirements of its congregation. They plan to construct a smaller, more efficient structure on the site that better aligns with modern theological and operational demands.
The Medical Arts Building was completed on April 1, 1929, and designed by renowned local architect R.H. Hunt. Initially built for nearly $500,000, this 10-story structure was one of the first dedicated medical office spaces in the nation, showcasing advanced features for its time, including a unique phone system and compressed air treatment facilities. Throughout its existence, it has housed numerous prominent medical professionals, including several of the original doctors who thrived in the building’s early years.
Historical Significance
Architecturally, the Medical Arts Building is recognized for its Art Deco style and reflects the transition from Classical Revival architecture. It was nominated for the National Register of Historic Places in a 1979 survey and has been a vital part of Chattanooga’s architectural landscape since its inception.
For decades, the structure has been heavily remodeled and repurposed to align with the demands of the church’s ministry. Past church pastor Ben Haden described the acquisition of the building as a “miracle,” emphasizing its significance to the congregation at that time. Over the years, it has effectively served as a foundation for the church’s various activities.
Community Response
The plan to demolish the Medical Arts Building has sparked significant public outcry. Many community members and historic preservationists are advocating for the building’s preservation, arguing that it contributes to the character of the city and should be maintained for future generations. Todd Morgan, a representative from Preserve Chattanooga, has voiced opposition to the building’s demolition, underscoring its architectural significance and the legacy it represents.
Residents have also suggested alternative uses for the Medical Arts Building, emphasizing its potential to offer housing for students from the nearby University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC). There is a growing sentiment within the community that the church should reconsider its destruction plans and explore possibilities for coexistence between church functions and the preservation of the building.
Conclusion
As discussions surrounding the future of the Medical Arts Building continue, tensions between the aspirations of the First Presbyterian Church and the community’s desire for preservation remain evident. The outcome of this situation will impact not only the church congregation but also the historical fabric of Chattanooga itself.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Chattanooga Preservationists Hoping
- Wikipedia: Medical Arts Building
- Times Free Press: Church to Demolish Medical Arts Building
- Google Search: Chattanooga Preservation
- Chattanoogan: Please Don’t Destroy The Medical Arts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Preservation
- Times Free Press: Preserve Chattanooga Director Talks Historic
- Google News: Chattanooga Medical Arts Building
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
