Saint George’s Anglican Church

Gazing up at Saint George’s Anglican Church, one might hear whispers of centuries past. The church stands proudly on Stanley Street, a testament to Montreal’s rich history. Saint George’s Anglican Church isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a living story, etched in stone and stained glass. The church we see today opened its doors in 1870. But the story of Saint George’s Anglican Church begins much earlier, in 1843. The original church, built to accommodate the overflow from Christ Church Cathedral, stood on Notre-Dame Street. As Montreal expanded westward, so did the congregation. This led them to the current location, a plot of land with a fascinating past. From 1775 to 1854, this very spot was a Jewish cemetery. Imagine the layers of history beneath our feet! The current Saint George’s was designed by Montreal architect William Tutin Thomas. He drew inspiration from 13th-century English Gothic architecture, evident in the pointed arches and pinnacles. The bell tower, a later addition completed in 1894, was designed by Alexander Francis Dunlop. The church’s exterior, crafted from carved sandstone, boasts stunning stained glass windows. Inside, the absence of pillars creates a sense of openness. The ceiling beams are truly remarkable, among the largest in the world. In fact, the hammerbeam roof is second in span only to Westminster Hall. A piece of British royalty resides within Saint George’s. A tapestry from Westminster Abbey, used during Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, graces the Coronation Chapel. The interior’s dark wood paneling adds to the sense of history and reverence. Look closely at the three-light congregational war memorial window. It depicts angels holding shields representing the Navy, Army, and Air Force. Inscriptions below each panel offer poignant messages of strength, faith, and remembrance. Saint George’s Anglican Church has witnessed the changing landscape of Montreal. From its humble beginnings on Notre-Dame Street to its grand presence on Stanley Street, it has served as a spiritual anchor for generations. As you leave Saint George’s, carry with you the echoes of its stories, the artistry of its architecture, and the enduring spirit of this remarkable landmark.