Gargoyles. Some are severe. Some are impish. They watch over Saint John’s Episcopal Church of Detroit. This isn’t just any church. Saint John’s stands as a testament to Detroit’s rich history and enduring faith.
Let’s step back to 1858. A man named Henry Porter Baldwin saw a need. He envisioned a church in this growing area. It was then considered the northern outskirts of Detroit. Baldwin purchased an apple orchard. He donated it for the church. He also gave money to build a chapel and rectory.
The chapel was dedicated in 1859. It quickly became too small. A new church was needed. Jordan and Anderson were commissioned. They designed Saint John’s. It was consecrated on December 10 1861. This was just months after the Civil War began.
Saint John’s stands on Woodward Avenue. This area was once called Piety Hill. Saint John’s is the oldest church still standing on this road.
The architecture of Saint John’s is Victorian Gothic Revival. It measures 170 feet by 65 feet. The belfry rises 105 feet. The exterior is rubble limestone. The trim is Kelly Island sandstone. Buttresses and hammer beam trusses support the walls and roof. Gargoyles decorate the roof line. They add character to Saint John’s.
Inside, memorial stained glass windows line the nave. They were installed between 1880 and 1954. These windows showcase changing styles in stained glass art. The upper portions retain the original grisaille and colored glass. The great west window was dedicated in 1963.
The altar is made of white Caen stone. It was installed in 1873. It serves as a memorial. The chancel furnishings were donated during renovations in 1892. These include a screen a pulpit and a brass lectern. Oak choir stalls were added in 1936.
Saint John’s has undergone architectural changes. In 1892 the chancel was deepened. This created space for the organ and choir. In 1936 the church was moved 60 feet backward. This was to accommodate the widening of Woodward Avenue. The tower was carefully disassembled numbered and reassembled.
Today Saint John’s continues its mission. It stands as a landmark. It serves as a reminder of Detroit’s past. The church is a Michigan State Historic Site. It is also on the National Register of Historic Places. Saint John’s Episcopal Church of Detroit remains a beacon of faith. Its history is etched in its stones and stained glass. Its doors are open to all.