The History of Our Building

Cornerstone Church is uniquely located at the site of the former West View Park Mansion. The Mansion was built in 1958 by George Harton, the owner of the landmark amusement park. Many people still reminisce about company and school picnics at West View Park. West View Park is remembered for rides like the Racing Whippet, the Big Dips and the Alpine Ride. West View Park was demolished in 1977 to make way for the West View Park Shopping Plaza.

The West View Park Mansion was amazing for its day. It cost over $ 60,000 to build in 1958 and utilized many of the same old country craftsman that worked for Mr. Harton at the Park. The 10,000 square foot structure was built with the finest materials available including hand tooled Indiana Limestone cut and laid on the site. The finished 15 room home included 9 bathrooms, 2 kitchens, 4 log burning fireplaces, a dumb waiter, and a 130,000 gallon in-ground pool.

Mr. Harton could look over his amusement park kingdom from the office adjoining his bedroom suite. Guests to the home were notable and included ambassadors, political figures, and many famous "Big Band" era musicians. The Rolling Stones played at Mr. Harton’s West View Danceland in 1963, but the legend that they visited the house is uncertain.

In spite of the lifestyle of the rich and famous experienced by Mr. Harton, life was ultimately unsatisfying and empty. The fast lane of life took him down a road in which he became estranged from his wife, grew distant from his children and eventually was diagnosed with terminal cancer.

His son, George was ultimately to play an amazing role in his father’s life. George Jr. found a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through the ministry of a local church. The change in George’s life did not go unnoticed by his father. Eventually, George Jr. was able to share the story of God’s love and forgiveness with his dad. Mr. Harton, made a personal commitment to faith in Jesus Christ and lived a changed life in those last days of earthly life. George Jr. went on to teach and is currently the academic dean at Capital Bible Seminary in Virginia.

Cornerstone Church purchased the Mansion in 1983 from the estate of Mr. Harton’s mother. Though the building exterior still reminds the passerby of the former Mansion, the inside has gone through significant transformation. A 160 seat sanctuary now occupies the area once used as a kitchen and living room. A 160 person fellowship area was created in the lower level where once there was bar and ballroom. A suite of offices was created in the North Wing where Mr. Harton had his personal chambers. Nurseries, classrooms, dedicated areas for teenagers, and a commercial kitchen are just a few of the other changes. On the outside the pool gave way to a green courtyard next to our basketball half-court.

As people enter Cornerstone Church for the first time they are often stunned by how big our facility really is. "It’s a lot like Alice in Wonderland," remarked one first time guest. "I had no idea how big this place really was inside." For the present time our u-shaped mansion will continue to retain its outside character and remind people of days gone by. In fact, we consider it a blessing to have the unique facility we have. It is large enough to serve the needs of a growing congregation yet its unique architecture allows for a sense of warmth and personal caring. Cornerstone Church is a place where you can find a spiritual home. We invite you to stop by soon and visit us in the Mansion.