If you’re a long-time reader of the blog, you’ll recall our piece on the controversy about construction of the Alameda Park Community Church (click here for that page). As a reminder, in the Fall of 1920, neighbors were not happy about plans to build the church on two lots at the southwest corner of 30th Avenue and Mason. The former owners of our house—Walter and Edith Morrison—led a campaign to oppose the building, and then to relocate the planned construction one block east to the island at the corner of Mason and Regents where it was ultimately built (but not before trying unsuccessfully to kick it out of the neigborhood altogether) .
While researching recently through building permits and related documents filed on microfiche, we came across the original drawings for the building, all filed for construction at 30th Avenue and Mason. Take a look:
Detail from elevation drawings filed with construction documents for the city’s permit process. Note that the building was designed by architect Edward G. Larson, working for Redimade Building Company (which was based in Portland).
The church building, now known as the Subud Center, is still going strong and a neat place for meetings, events and large family gatherings.
We continue to keep any ear out for stories, memories and photos of this building. Have something you can share?
Alameda Old House History 
Interesting. I guess I side with the Morrisons. In our historic neighborhood the original church, the Bungalow Christian Church, was built in 1919 and looked like a house. Since then though, 4 new buildings,7 demolished houses and 2 parking lots later, the charm is gone. Looks like Alameda has fared better!!
Interesting parallels there. Hmm. I agree. There were actually covenants in place in the neighborhood which provided a solid basis for Edith’s objections. I remember in my conversation with Bruce Morrison that he described his parents as absolutely furious about the planned construction. The squeaky wheel was definitely heard. Perhaps placing it in the island helped keep it contained all these years. A post I’m working on relates to another neighborhood protest about a planned venture that was killed early. This was one vigilant and righteous group up here.
After going to your site I wonder if any of the homes A.J. Matot built are still standing. My daughter used to live in N.E. Portland, now lives in North Portland. I’ve been on Alameda St.–How cool that there might be a home there that my Dad built!
Hello Ann. Thanks for dropping by. Yes indeed, all nine of the Matot-built homes here in Alameda are standing strong. One of them, at the corner of NE Alameda and 29th, was recently damaged in a fire and is being nicely restored. I’ll appreciate your help with background information on A.J. Matot as I prepare a profile of his work for The Builders here on the blog. I’ve replied off-line.