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The Palace Cathedral - Facts & History
United Church, under the direction of REV. IKE,
is a place of worship for thousands of people of various races,
faiths, and social strata. It is also a classic, architecturally
grand, international, inter-cultural Center for the Arts.
Facts and History
The square block United Building Complex, containing the Palace
Auditorium, was purchased by the United Christian Evangelistic
Association in 1969, under the direction of Dr. Frederick
Eikerenkoetter (“Rev. Ike”), Founder and Pastor
of the United Church. It fronts on four streets, occupying
a full block on Broadway, 175th Street, and Wadsworth Avenue.
The building was the last of the “Wonder Theatres”
erected between 1925 and 1930. These “Wonder Theatres”
were so named because of their extravagant design and were
placed in strategic areas of Manhattan. Intended as a stage
theatre, it opened February 15th, 1930, and housed vaudeville
shows for uptown residents. With the decline of vaudeville
and the growing popularity of moving pictures, the theatre
was quickly converted to a deluxe movie house and renamed
Loew’s 175th Street Theatre.
A World-Class Architectural Treasure, listed in the New
York City Architectural Guide
Through extensive renovation, the original design intended
by its architect, Thomas Lamb, has been regained. Its architectural
style has been classified as a monument to eclectic orientalia
with a Moorish/Rococo influence. Its interior is ornately
decorated with filigreed walls and ceilings, illuminated with
directional lighting from within and behind walls. The original
elegance has been enhanced by the addition of authentic Louis
XV and XVI furnishings and a collection of other works of
art.
Wonder Theatre Organ, with Seven-Story, Twin Chambers
The auditorium contains a Robert Morton Wonder organ, with
Twin Chambers, seven stories high. The International Theatre
Organ Guild Society has restored this instrument, and holds
its International conventions and concerts here, with performers
from around the world. We are told that it is the only such
organ, anywhere, left in its original site.
An Educational, Cultural Community and Concert Center
In addition to being a magnificent non-denominational place
of worship, the United Complex is also one of New York’s
finest cultural centers. Many international and community
organizations use the building for commencement exercises,
concerts, fashion shows, recording sessions, motion pictures,
and other civic events. The stage and sound facilities are
some of the finest in New York City.
A Star of Faith Seen in New York and New Jersey
At the top of the building is the Prayer Tower, with its beautiful
stained glass windows. This is where Rev. Ike and his Associate
Ministers handle prayer requests from around the world. The
light from its 12-foot high Star of Faith, atop the 23-foot
candle, can be seen for miles around, in New York and New
Jersey. It serves as both a beacon and a blessing to many.
A Television Sound Recording and Movie Production Center
Rev. Ike has produced his Inspirational/Motivational television
program, “The Joy of Living” from this Palace since
1971. International movie and television producers, and reporters
from around the world have produced movies, T.V. and sound
recordings in these facilities.
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Don’t
let “ungodly” costs run you away from New
York!
At the fraction of the cost of what other locations
would rent for, you can utilize the most opulent, restored
theatre on Broadway, at 175th Street, in New York City.
In Washington Heights at the George Washington Bridge.
Easy access from the TRI-STATE AREA, (New York, New
Jersey, and Connecticut) without encountering the congestion
and expense of “midtown madness!”
Movies • TV Production • Sound Recordings
Videos Concerts • Special Events • Theatre
• Pipe Organ
Convenient to all public transportation, parking garages,
and arranged valet parking at the door!
Proceeds from the rental of the Palace Auditorium are
used in the preservation and maintenance of the Palace
and to further the various ministries of the Church,
which include Youth and Social Programs, to serve the
Community and the general public.
At the time of reserving the Palace, a non-refundable
deposit is required.
Any equipment requested, will be supplied at an additional
cost. Cafeteria facilities are available upon request
and for an additional fee.
Security by arrangement
Contact: (212) 568-6700
Pastor Sal Sabino, Ext. 20
Piero Ramos, Ext. 11
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