First Christian Church - Frank Lloyd Wright

First Christian Church - Frank Lloyd Wright

New work from the Frank Lloyd Wright designed, First Christian Church in Phoenix, Arizona.

Originally called the Southwest Christian Seminary (1950) Dr. Peyton Canary asked Wright to design him a new architectural program, including a Chapel, Auditorium, administration, offices, seminar, rooms, and an entire agricultural layout with homes, farms, and gardens on 73 acres.

Canary also said he had no money. Wright responded characteristically:

“I hardly see how I can find the time and energy to help you, but somehow I will do it. Go back and tell your friends and colleagues I am proud to be the architect of your seminary, and will help you in every way I can.“

The seminary was able to pay an initial fee for the presentation drawings. They hoped to use the drawings to help raise funds for the buildings but ultimately couldn’t make it happen and the plan was abandoned.

In 1971 the Reverend William Boice of the First Christian Church remember the project, contacted the architect widow, and secured the permission of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation to build only part of the plan in Phoenix.

See more photos of First Christian Church in the FLLW Arizona Gallery.