Lost Churches of Mississippi is a collection of archival photographs, postcards, and drawings of more than one hundred notable churches and synagogues fallen to fire, disaster, development, or neglect. Constructed primarily from the mid-1800s through the early 1900s, these places of worship were often among the most visually prominent and architecturally striking buildings in Mississippi. Storms, floods, tornadoes, flames, bulldozers, or the disbandment of congregations razed what once was hallowed.
In Lost Churches of Mississippi, architectural historian Richard J. Cawthon reclaims such noteworthy temples as the old St. Paul's Catholic Church in Vicksburg, Bethel Presbyterian Church near Columbus, the old Trinity Episcopal Church in Pass Christian, and the old First Presbyterian Church in Yazoo City.
The book includes 180 distinctive black-and-white illustrations from several historical archives and other collections that represent over fifty towns and cities throughout the state. Cawthon discusses the architectural features and historical background of each house of worship and provides a brief introduction that illuminates the study of lost buildings. The book also features a glossary of architectural terms and an annotated bibliography.
Check out photos from the book and an upcoming appearance schedule for Richard Cawthon after the jump.
Richard Cawthon will talk about and sign copies of his new book at the following times and locations:
- Friday, May 14, 4 – 6 p.m. at Lorelei Book
1103 Washington Street
Vicksburg
Phone: 601.634.8624
- Saturday, May 15, 1 – 2 p.m. at Lemuria Bookstore
202 B
4465 I-55 North
Jackson
Phone: (601) 366-7619.
- Saturday, May 22, 1 – 3 p.m. at Bay Books
131 Main Street
Bay
Phone: (228) 463-2688
- Saturday, June 5, 1 – 3 p.m. at Barnes & Noble-Gulfport
15246 Crossroads Parkway
Gulfport
Phone: (228) 832-8906
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