Born in Zelienople, Pa., Charles W. Bolton was a prolific architect, mostly of churches -- most of which are on the East Coast. He was based out of Philadelphia.

Bolton studied at Lafayette College in Easton, Pa., and initially practiced in Virginia. His son Charles L. Bolton became his partner at the turn of the 20th century, and the firm became known as Charles W. Bolton & Son. Bolton is credited with designing more than 500 churches.