Historic Structure Originally Housed University
Published Apr 17, 2007
Now known as the Pillar of Fire building, the castle-like structure atop Crown Point was briefly the home of Westminster University, whose founders envisioned its becoming the “Princeton of the West.”
Sometimes referred to as the Big Red Castle, the sandstone structure that now houses a school, church and Christian radio station fairly glows from its perch on Crown Point above Westminster.
The imposing structure resembles a castle, with its Romanesque architecture complete with a 175-foot-tall tower.
The building is every bit as beautiful on the inside because of its hardwood floors, high ceilings and large windows, says Dr. Robert Dallenbach, general superintendent of the Pillar of Fire Church.
The city of Westminster takes its name from the iconic structure. It was originally built to house Westminster University, which founders hoped would become the “Princeton of the West.”
The university opened its doors for classes in 1908. The reign of Colorado’s “Princeton” was short, however. In 1915, the school’s board of trustees decided to change the university from co-ed enrollment to a male-only student body. By 1917, all of the school’s students had gone off to fight in World War I, and Westminster University was shuttered.
Despite the short tenure of Westminster University, the building went on to fulfill the founders’ plans for it to be a center for learning. Purchased in 1920 by the Pillar of Fire Church, the Big Red Castle came to house an elementary school, high school, junior college and Bible seminary.
Now known as the Pillar of Fire building, it is the home of Belleview Christian School – attended by children in child care, preschool and grades one through 12. Services for the Pillar of Fire’s Belleview Community Church take place on Sundays, and AM 910 KPOF broadcasts from the building.
Story by Sue Lenthe
Photo by Antony Boshier
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