Chicago Landmarks
 

First Church of Deliverance

View circa 1950     Address: 4315 S. Wabash Ave.
Year Built: 1939; towers added in 1946
Architect: Walter T. Bailey , Kocher, Buss and DeKlerk
Date Designated a Chicago Landmark: October 5, 1994

Church interior, photo by Bob Thall Designed by the city's first African-American architect, this unique Art Moderne-style structure reflects the innovative character of the congregation that built it. Founded by the Rev. Clarence H. Cobbs, the church figured prominently in the history of Christian radio broadcasting and in the development of gospel music. Another architect added the twin towers to the terra cotta facade in 1946.