Founded in 1832 by local settlers, members of Eureka Christian Church were instrumental in the founding of the town, the county, and Eureka College. When their church experienced a devastating fire in 1932, members fundraised and commissioned the current English Gothic church, designed by Chicago architect Herbert A. Brand. Among the members fundraising for this new building was former President Ronald Reagan, who was a Eureka College student at the time. Completed in 1936 at the south end of Main Street, ECC stands out for its steep roof, pointed arches, irregular brick coloring, and limestone buttresses.

ECC also stands out for its extensive community impact and long-standing partnerships with local organizations. In 1971, the congregation started Eureka Community Nursery School to fill a need in the community. Fifty-five years later, ECC continues to host the nursery school as well as a food pantry, an emergency shelter for women and children, and regular meetings for groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Rotary Club, Scout Troops, Weight Watchers, and Eureka College student clubs. Perhaps its most impactful program is “Snack Pack,” which distributes bags of food to over 70 young students in the community who are experiencing food insecurity.

A $350,000 grant from the National Fund with $350,000 in matching funds raised by the congregation will contribute to the replacement of the church roof, including the abatement and removal of materials containing asbestos.

Photo by Steve Hodel