St Barnabas Episcopal Church

In 1853, a modest chapel arose in Irvington, New York, emulating the timeless charm of St Martin’s Church in Canterbury. This humble beginning marked the birth of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church. It began as part of a school envisioned by Reverend John McVickar, a close friend of Washington Irving. The school was short-lived, closing after just six years. However, the chapel found new life, evolving into a parish church. This transformation of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church marked a pivotal moment in Irvington’s history, as it became the village’s first Episcopal parish. Previously, local Episcopalians had to travel to Christ Episcopal Church in Tarrytown for services. Imagine the convenience this new church offered. The original structure soon proved too small for the growing congregation. In 1863, a significant expansion was undertaken. The renowned architectural firm Renwick & Sands, known for their work on iconic structures like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Grace Church, was commissioned for the task. This expansion added the distinct tower, transept, and chancel that define St. Barnabas Episcopal Church today. Interestingly, remnants of the original chapel, including whole logs in the basement framing, can still be seen. The connection to prominent figures continued. Jay Gould, whose Lyndhurst estate is a National Historic Landmark, donated land to the church. The church boasts stained glass windows from various makers, including two Tiffany windows. The lych gate, a poignant symbol of the passage from life to death, was added in 1899. The parish hall, designed by local architect Albert J. Manning, followed in 1902. Over the years, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church has been more than just a place of worship. It served as the venue for significant events, like the funeral of General Philip Schuyler in 1906. His service drew a large crowd, including notable figures like J.P. Morgan and Joseph Choate, a testament to both Schuyler’s prominence and the church’s role in the community. Even today, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church remains deeply interwoven with the fabric of Irvington, sponsoring various community programs and embodying its enduring legacy.