Saint Anthony of Padua Church

Gazing upon Saint Anthony of Padua Church, one can almost hear the echoes of Italian immigrants who sought solace within its walls. Saint Anthony of Padua Church stands as a testament to their faith and perseverance. It was established in 1859 as the first parish in the United States specifically serving the Italian immigrant community. Their journey began with a priest named Sanguinetti, who arrived from Italy with Archbishop John Hughes’s blessing. He aimed to provide spiritual guidance to his fellow countrymen. Many had drifted from their faith due to the lack of Italian-speaking clergy. Sanguinetti’s efforts were short-lived. He returned to Italy feeling overwhelmed. The community, however, persisted, and the Franciscan friars took on the responsibility. In 1866, Friar Leo Pacilio, a native of Naples, re-established the parish. They initially worshipped in a former Methodist Episcopal Church. Between 1886 and 1888, the current Romanesque Revival style church was built on Sullivan Street, designed by Arthur Crooks. A separate friary was also constructed on Thompson Street. A tragic event unfolded in 1938 when a fire engulfed the friary. A young friar, Richard Fagan, bravely rescued two fellow friars. He perished trying a third rescue. Father Fagan Park, at Sixth Avenue and Prince Street, commemorates his sacrifice. Saint Anthony of Padua Church continues to serve its community, its story interwoven with the rich tapestry of New York City’s history.