First Christian Church

The denomination formerly known as Disciples of Christ was founded under the leadership of the fiery Irish preacher Thomas Campbell, who came to America in the early 19th century. The denomination’s ecumenical beliefs took hold in the Western Reserve and many “Campbellite” congregations were established, as well as a Campbellite college in Hiram, Ohio. James A Garfield, a Campbellite and president of Hiram College (later, 20th President of the United States), often spoke at this church. The building was remodeled in the 1950s and served as the home of the Western Reserve Christian Church. In 2005, the building became the home of Temple Beth Shalom.

The entry has a full entablature and pilasters and is recessed, with a cornice and pilasters framing the recess and a lancet window above the double doors. A low gable faces Division Street, with a high, steeply pitch gable behind.