First Church of Christ Scientist, Santa Barbara

The origins of Christian Science in Santa Barbara date back to 1882 when the Hiller family visited the town for the first time. Two years later they relocated here and established a Christian Science Society. Thus, under the laws of California, the First Church of Christ Scientist was founded. Services were initially held in private residences until 1930 when the current building was erected. Architect Henry Gutterson created this elegant church in a fine blend of Byzantine and Romanesque styles with Spanish Revival decorative finishes. The interior ornamentations feature exposed beamed ceiling and lots of wooden carvings, large stained-glass windows and columns.