Saint Johns Episcopal Church

In 1840, a new chapter began in Charlestown’s spiritual narrative. Saint John’s Episcopal Church emerged, adding its voice to the diverse chorus of faiths already present. Baptists, Universalists, Unitarians, Methodists, Roman Catholics, and the First Congregational Church had all established their presence. Yet, something was missing. Saint John’s arrived as the town’s sole Episcopalian congregation. Interestingly, although a relatively recent addition to Charlestown’s religious tapestry, Saint John’s proudly holds the title of the oldest surviving church in town. The first Episcopal service in Charlestown echoed through Fuller’s Hall, now City Square, on January 5th, 1840. Reverend Nathaniel Bent, the Navy Yard Chaplain, led the service. He soon became the first Rector. The following month, around twenty-four representatives from about twenty families signed the Articles of Association. The congregation was born. Fundraising commenced, aiming to gather $10,000 for a dedicated House of Worship. By autumn, a plot on Town Hill was purchased for $4,700. The cornerstone of Saint John’s was laid on May 5th, 1841. The completed church was consecrated on November 10th of the same year. Today, Saint John’s stands on Devens Street. This venerable Episcopal church showcases the early Gothic Revival style. It was designed by Boston architect Richard Bond (1797-1861). The church’s dark ashlar granite facade, quatrefoil windows, and square, crenellated tower are truly striking. Beside the church stands the Carpenter Gothic stick-style chapel, a product of the 1870s. Designed by Ware and Van Brunt, it was later modified. The addition of a brick ground floor in 1901 created the current Parish House. This Victorian gem stands as the finest example of its kind in the neighborhood.