Historic preservation staff recommends landmark designation for Ingleside Presbyterian Church

The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously June 1 to recommend landmark designation for Ingleside Presbyterian Church and its interior collage mural, "The Great Cloud of Witnesses." Planning staff said the building and mural merit protection for both architectural and artistic reasons.

Shannon Ferguson, department staff speaking on behalf of Susan Parks, told the commission that the church — designed by architect Joseph Leonard — is a rare local example of Neoclassical ecclesiastical architecture and that the mural, begun by Reverend Gordon in 1980, is a significant folk‑art environment reflecting African American history. "The building is recommended for landmark status both for its architectural and artistic associations," Ferguson said.

Reverend Roland Gordon, pastor of Ingleside Presbyterian Church, thanked commissioners for visiting the site and expressed local support for designation. "I just wanna thank the commissioners for coming out today to see firsthand, what is unfolding at Ingleside… the community is very excited about," Gordon said.

Ferguson said the department’s work on the nomination included pro bono contributions from SF Heritage and outside conservators and that the church supports the designation. The staff report notes that any future conservation or stabilization work should follow a conditions assessment and the California Art Preservation Act and be subject to the artist's consent where applicable.

Commissioners moved to adopt staff's recommendation and to forward the designation to the Board of Supervisors; the motion passed unanimously. The commission recorded no public opposition during the hearing.

The item will now proceed to the Board of Supervisors for final action on landmark designation.