Imagine standing here in the Bronx. Before us stands Saint Stephens English Methodist Church. This historic church has been a fixture since its construction between 1897 and 1898.
Saint Stephens English Methodist Church is more than just a building. It is a testament to community and architectural style. Alexander McMillan Welch designed it. His vision created a beautiful Shingle style church with Queen Anne elements.
Notice the cross-gable roof. It’s topped by a small cupola. The rose window on the front facade catches the light. Don’t miss the pronounced bell tower. It features an open belfry and balconies.
Inside Saint Stephens English Methodist Church, the Akron Plan influenced the design. This plan fostered a sense of community and connection among congregants. Attached to the church is a Sunday School wing. It has a hipped roof. Also on the property sits a two-story Queen Anne style frame parsonage.
Saint Stephens English Methodist Church’s story began long before this building. The congregation formed in 1825. It incorporated a decade later. They were known as the Moshulu Methodists. The church occupied three different sites. The first was on 251st Street and the Old Albany Post Road from 1835 to 1876. The second was on Broadway between 231st Street and Verveelen Place. The present house of worship opened in 1898. It stands at 146 West 228th Street.
Saint Stephens English Methodist Church has played an important role in the community. The Kingsbridge Historical Society met here. Plaques near the church promote the area’s Revolutionary War history.
Reverend William Tieck served as pastor for the longest tenure. He served from 1946 to 1977. Dr. Tieck was also the Bronx County Historian from 1989 to 1996. He authored books on the Bronx including Riverdale, Kingsbridge Spuyten Duyvil New York City.
In April 2000, Mayor Rudolph Giuliani honored Dr. Tieck. He signed a bill to add signage. Marble Hill Avenue between 228th and 230th Streets became Reverend Dr. William A. Tieck Way. This honored his service of over half a century.
Today Saint Stephens English Methodist Church continues to serve its community. Its architecture and history earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. It stands as a reminder of faith and community. Take a moment to appreciate Saint Stephens English Methodist Church’s enduring legacy. It is a landmark that connects the past to the present.