Journey back to 1858 when the seeds of St. John’s Episcopal Church were sown. This was thanks to the vision of Henry Porter Baldwin. He was a successful merchant who later became governor of Michigan and a U.S. Senator. Baldwin’s dream was to establish Detroit’s sixth Episcopal parish.
St. John’s Episcopal Church stands proudly on Woodward Avenue. This location, near the Fisher Freeway service drive, was once the northern edge of Detroit. Soon, this area became known as “Piety Hill” because of its many religious buildings.
The parish was officially organized on St. John the Evangelist Day, December 27, 1858. Baldwin donated the land at Woodward and High Street. High Street is now part of Interstate 75. He also funded a chapel and rectory.
The first chapel, seating 150, was designed by Jordan & Anderson. However, it quickly became too small. A new church was commissioned from the same architects. It was consecrated on December 10, 1861.
St. John’s Episcopal Church is a beautiful example of Victorian Gothic design. The exterior features rubble limestone. This stone was brought by barge from the downriver area. Kelly Island sandstone trims the building. Buttresses and hammer beam trusses support the walls and roof. Gargoyles decorate the roof line and windows. These gargoyles add character. Some look severe and others look impish.
The church has undergone some changes over the years. In 1936, Woodward Avenue was widened. St. John’s Episcopal Church was moved back 50 feet. The 145-foot Gothic tower was carefully taken apart. Each piece was numbered. Then it was reassembled.
Inside St. John’s Episcopal Church, you will find six memorial stained glass windows on each side of the nave. These windows were installed between 1880 and 1954. The great west window was dedicated in 1963.
St. John’s Episcopal Church continues its traditions. It uses the 1928 Book of Common Prayer. This makes it unique among Episcopal churches. Some weekday services use the Anglican Missal.
Today, St. John’s Episcopal Church is near Comerica Park. The church jokingly encourages fans to “pray here for the Tigers.” It is a testament to faith and architectural beauty. It stands as a reminder of Detroit’s rich history.