The Katherine Bell Hale Gallery

In the Gallery October 14–November 10, 2025

In conjunction with the 150th Anniversary of the Church of St. Mary, an exhibit highlighting the legacies of faith to be found in six centennial churches in Lake Forest and Lake Bluff: St. Patrick Church, First Presbyterian Church, Church of St. Mary, First Baptist Church, Grace United Methodist Church and Church of the Holy Spirit.

Each of the churches included in the exhibit are foundational to the histories of Lake Forest and Lake Bluff. From the early immigrant settlers to the incorporation of the towns by visionary clergy and industrialists. The stories of these houses of worship were fostered by railroad expansion out of Chicago and the development of the North Shore.

Each church and its founding members found a home in Lake Forest and Lake Bluff to anchor both themselves and their communities. These churches have unique narratives to tell, as well as the common cause of Christian mission and service.