A while back I was given the opportunity to photograph the beautiful Christ Church Cranbrook in the affluent community of Bloomfield Hills, MI. I was fortunate to be a group of about 18 photographers who had the church to ourselves for a couple hours on a Saturday afternoon. The Church was the creation of newspaper magnate George G. Booth and his wife, Ellen who purchased a 175-acre farm in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan back in 1904. They proceeded to construct a series of buildings including an elementary school in the community in the early twenties. Mr. Booth noticed that many residents were traveling to other neighborhoods to fulfill their worshipping needs, so he built this Episcopalian Church to serve the community of Cranbrook. The attention to architectural detail is a direct reflection of artistic spirit and inspiration which enriched the lives of George and Ellen Booth.
The Church opened its doors to the community in 1928 and has flourished by serving approximately 900 families while also providing great educational and outreach opportunities to those in need.
A bird's eye view of the Church from the existing and compact rear balcony.
The church is famous for it's intricate woodcarvings, impressive pipe organ, as well as it's numerous stained glass windows.
The best view in the house.
Church Corner
The exquisite stained glass windows are seen throughout and captured in virtually every photograph taken of this wonderful institution.
Front Section
A closer view of the front of the church provides greater appreciation of the thoughtful design and planning that went it to the exhaustive construction and meticulous attention to detail.
Church Corridor
Church Exterior and Entrance
Historic Landmark Plaque
The Church was granted the coveted designation of becoming a National Historic Landmark in 1989 which can be seen just outside the entrance.
Church Sign
I had a wonderful time visiting this tremendous institution and I would like to thank our tour guide, Peggy, for her amazing insight and hospitality she providing throughout the afternoon. This is a place you must visit if you get the chance - I look forward to return visit.