Was it fate that moved St. Alban’s Episcopal Church to where it stands today? St. Alban’s Episcopal Church is not just a building. It is a testament to faith and community. It stands in the old village of Eltingville on Staten Island. This church represents a fine example of mid-19th-century rural architecture. Wood construction makes it a rare survivor in New York City.
Originally, St. Alban’s was known as the Church of the Holy Comforter. It was designed in 1865 by Richard Michell Upjohn. He was a prominent architect. Upjohn’s father was also a noted church architect and Gothic Revivalist. Richard Michell Upjohn was known for his Victorian Gothic style. This style uses eccentric angular details. Many of his churches were for modest Episcopal parishes. They were often made of wood with board-and-batten siding.
The story of St. Alban’s took an interesting turn in 1872. The small church was moved to its current location. It was then enlarged. Richard Michell Upjohn likely oversaw this expansion. The enlargement matched the style of the original structure. This ensured a cohesive design.
In 1951, the Church of the Holy Comforter merged with St. Anne’s Episcopal Church. St. Anne’s was an offshoot of Holy Comforter. With this union, the name changed to St. Alban’s Episcopal Church. This marked a new chapter in the church’s history.
St. Alban’s Episcopal Church has been recognized for its historical significance. It was designated a New York City Landmark in 1980. In 1982, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Inside St. Alban’s, you will find another treasure. This is an 1883 Hook & Hastings organ. It is believed to be the oldest pipe organ in a Staten Island church. The organ was originally built for a church in Trumansburg, NY. St. Alban’s acquired it in 1984.
The Hook & Hastings organ has ten stops played by a two-manual keydesk. Its richly decorated front pipes and visible Bourdon add to its charm.
An earlier organ also played its part in St. Alban’s history. Built in 1848 by Henry Erben, it first served Christ Church. St. Alban’s purchased and moved the organ to its location in 1903.
In the 1980s, the interior of St. Alban’s underwent renovations. These renovations accommodated new liturgical practices. The exterior was repainted in historically authentic Victorian colors. This ensured the church maintained its historical integrity.
The restoration of St. Alban’s was completed in 1990. Li-Saltzman Architects oversaw the project. Their work preserved the church’s architectural and historical elements.
St. Alban’s Episcopal Church stands as a testament to architectural beauty. It also shows the enduring spirit of its community. Its journey from the Church of the Holy Comforter to St. Alban’s is a story of faith. It is a story of resilience and community.