A classic Shingle-style design. That’s the first impression of the Virginia Street Church. This isn’t just any church. This is the Virginia Street Church in Saint Paul Minnesota. Built in 1886 by architects Gilbert & Taylor it stands as a testament to their innovative style. The foundation is fieldstone. Notice the Richardsonian details in the wooden porch arches. The tower and belfry proportions are unique. A rooster originally adorned the tower. It was restored in 2001.
The Virginia Street Church is more than just beautiful architecture. It holds deep historical and spiritual significance. Designed for a Swedenborgian congregation many prominent Saint Paul residents were members. Many originally hailed from Boston home to the church’s seminary. The church’s theology is based on the Bible as interpreted by Emanuel Swedenborg. Swedenborg believed the Bible held a deeper inner meaning. He thought this meaning could enrich daily life.
The sanctuary is intimate. Hammerbeams support the barrel-vaulted ceiling. Original double-hung leaded-glass windows grace the north and south walls. They feature amber-colored bottle-bottom glass. Diamond-shaped panes are in the top sashes. Small square panes form the lower sashes. Yellow and blue are the predominant colors. The west facade windows have been replaced. Interestingly Gilbert & Taylor used the Virginia Street Church’s tower design for two other churches. They were the South Park Congregational Church and the Camp Memorial Chapel.
The Virginia Street Church has seen additions. Lucy Fricke daughter of a founder recalls that Holyoke was the architect. He designed at least one of the additions to the east end of the building. The Virginia Street Church isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to faith history and architectural ingenuity. It’s a place of worship where a unique theological perspective finds its home. It stands as a symbol of community and enduring spiritual values. Step inside and discover more.