Ready to explore a piece of East Harlem’s history? I am excited to tell you about the Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church. This church has been a cornerstone of the community since 1834. It stands as one of Manhattan’s earliest Roman Catholic parishes.
Before Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church was built, Catholics north of Canal Street had to travel far to St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral. Imagine attending mass in houses and barns. That was the reality until Bishop John Dubois decided to establish a parish right here on 117th Street.
Father Michael Curran, a missionary with knowledge of Gaelic, was put in charge. His Gaelic helped him connect with his parishioners. The cornerstone of Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church was laid on June 29, 1835.
In 1843, Father Curran returned to Ireland. Later, under Father Maguire, the church expanded. Archbishop John McCloskey rededicated the enlarged church in 1871.
Dr. McQuirk oversaw the construction of a new school in 1905. During this time, services were held in the school auditorium. A new rectory was also constructed. The parish demographics shifted from predominantly Irish to a more Spanish-speaking community. Msgr. Drew started a Spanish program.
Since 1998, the Institute of the Incarnate Word Fathers has staffed the church. In 2015, Holy Rosary parish merged with Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church.
The Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church building completed in 1908. It showcases Romanesque Revival style. The architects Neville & Bagge chose this style. The church features a brick structure over a steel frame. Its facade is limestone. Symmetrical corner towers dominate the street. A row of five entry portals is remarkable. Large round-arch stained-glass windows add to the drama. These windows benefited from the building’s steel and concrete structure. Round-arch openings, steep roofs, and medieval-style carvings mark the Romanesque Revival style.
Inside, during Father Kane’s time, a marble altar rail was installed. A solid oak reredos enhanced the sanctuary.
Father Eugene Maguire founded the parish school in 1870. The Sisters of Charity of New York oversaw the school. Since 1850, these sisters had been teaching catechism at Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church. The Carmel Hill Program aids students with tuition assistance.
Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church has been a designated New York City Landmark since June 28, 2016. It is a testament to the enduring faith and community spirit of East Harlem.
So, as you leave Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church, remember its long history. It has been a place of worship, education, and community for generations. The church embodies the spirit of East Harlem.