The Central Districts latest historic landmark is a synagogue that became a church on E Fir

The Seattle City Council’s neighborhoods committee plans to finalize the landmark status for the Tolliver Temple Church of God, a significant structure built in 1929. The church has transitioned from a synagogue to a Christian house of worship, reflecting the demographic shifts in the Central District. In its 2023 decision, the landmarks board recognized the building's historic value across all six designation standards, a unique achievement for Seattle’s architecture. The designation will require any future changes to the church’s interior or exterior to undergo city review, ensuring the preservation of its historical elements. The church continues to serve an active congregation amidst a trend of Black churches selling their properties for new developments.

This legislative action underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of urban development. The committee will convene on Thursday to discuss the proposed legislation. Local officials emphasize the building's significance to both the Jewish and Black communities in Seattle.