Perched here in Watertown, St. Patrick’s Church stands as a testament to faith and community. This wasn’t always the location for St. Patrick’s Parish Church. Let’s step back in time.
In 1846, about 100 Catholics resided in Watertown. They gathered for services in the “Whig’s Reading Room” on Watertown Square. Fr. Patrick Flood led these early gatherings. Recognizing the need for a dedicated space, the community acquired an old Methodist meeting house. They cleverly disguised their intentions. It was purchased under the pretense of being for a bonnet factory. The building was then remodeled into their first Catholic Church.
But there was a challenge. The Methodist Church attempted to nullify the deal. Bishop Fitzpatrick intervened threatening court action. In June 1847, the building was relocated to Church Hill now Church Hill Street. Soon, plans emerged for a larger church. Bishop Fitzpatrick blessed the cornerstone on September 27, 1847 assisted by Fr. Flood and Fr. P. O’Beirne. The new parish and church were named Saint Patrick in honor of the predominantly Irish heritage of its immigrant congregation. The church was simple but elegant. It accommodated around 800 worshippers. Statues of Saint Joseph and Saint Patrick were placed at the main altar. Side altars honored the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Blessed Virgin.
Over the years, St. Patrick’s Church saw many changes in leadership. In 1851 Fr. Bernard Flood arrived from Montreal to assist. Fr. John W. McCarthy followed him. Then came Fr. Michael M. Green. Fr. Robert P. Stack later became his assistant. Under Fr. Stack’s guidance, the church expanded. A parochial residence and a school were built. In 1888, St. Patrick Grammar School opened in a new building. The Sisters of Saint Dominic of Springfield provided the faculty.
By the late 1890s, a new vision emerged. Fr. John S. Cullen proposed a new edifice on Main Street. The cornerstone of the present St. Patrick’s Church was laid on June 30, 1901. The completed church was dedicated in May 1906. This imposing Gothic structure contrasted with its predecessors. The interior could seat 1,500 people. Iowa marble adorned the main altar and shrines. Stained glass windows were donated by parishioners. European glass depicted scenes from the life of Saint Patrick. American opalescent glass filled the remaining windows.
After the new church opened, the old Church Hill Street building became a parish hall. In 1909, a new bell was installed in the belfry. The donor remained anonymous for years. A mysterious envelope with money was left on the altar. It was signed, “The gift of one who wishes to be known only to God.” Fifteen years later, the sacristan Miss Mary Tugman was found to be the donor after her death. Msgr. Ambrose F. Roche succeeded Fr. Cullen in 1908. He acquired the Townsend family estate for a new convent in 1909.
St. Patrick’s Church has evolved over time. It remains a beacon of faith. It serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of its community. The physical structure has changed. The core mission of St. Patrick’s Parish Church remains.