Consider this: A majestic elk shot and stuffed. That is how one guide describes what happened to Saint Ann’s Church. Today, we see only a fragment of what was once a beautiful house of worship.
Saint Ann’s Church, once located on East 12th Street, has a story of both grandeur and unfortunate demise. The building’s facade is all that remains. It stands as a solitary reminder of the rich history that was.
The story of Saint Ann’s Church began in 1852. Bishop Hughes established the parish. Reverend John Murray Forbes became its first pastor. Initially, the parish started on Bond Street. Soon after, it moved to a building on East 8th Street. This building had quite the history. It was first constructed in 1811 as a Presbyterian church.
As the parish grew, Saint Ann’s Church needed more space. In 1870, the parish purchased a new building at 120 East 12th Street. This new location had previously been a Baptist church. It also served as a synagogue for Congregation Emanu-El. The parish decided to rebuild, keeping only the facade. Napoleon LeBrun designed a new French Gothic sanctuary.
The cornerstone was laid on July 10, 1870. The New York Times described the new Saint Ann’s Church as among the most beautiful in the city. The construction cost $166,000. The church could seat 1,600 people. In 1920, stained glass windows were added, enhancing its beauty.
Saint Ann’s Church thrived. It became one of the wealthiest congregations in the city. However, the neighborhood’s demographics changed over time. In 1983, the building was rededicated as Saint Ann’s Shrine Armenian Catholic Cathedral. It became an Eastern Catholic church.
In 2003, the Archdiocese of New York announced the church’s permanent closure. Despite objections, the church was sold to a developer in 2005. Plans were made to build a New York University dormitory on the site. The Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation protested. NYU promised to consider community concerns.
Ultimately, the church was demolished. Only the facade was left standing. It now stands before Founders Hall dormitory. The AIA Guide to New York City described the result as a futile exercise. There is no connection between the old church and the new building.
The story of Saint Ann’s Church is a reminder of changing times. It speaks to the challenges of preserving history. The facade, though isolated, stands as a testament to the church’s enduring legacy. It encourages us to reflect on the importance of preserving our city’s architectural heritage.