The imposing stone facade of St John’s Episcopal Church greets you. Its Victorian Gothic Revival architecture is breathtaking. This isn’t just any church. It’s the oldest surviving church on Woodward Avenue. A testament to Detroit’s rich history.
St John’s Episcopal Church began its life in 1858. Henry Porter Baldwin a successful merchant and later Michigan governor spearheaded its creation. He donated the land. He even funded a rectory and initial 150-seat chapel. The chapel quickly proved too small for the growing congregation. A larger church followed. It was consecrated in 1861.
The church’s construction is a story in itself. The exterior is rubble limestone. The trim is elegant Kelly Island sandstone. The architects Jordan & Anderson masterfully incorporated buttresses and hammer beam trusses for support. Gargoyles adorn the roofline adding a touch of whimsy to the imposing structure. The interior originally lacked intermediary piers. This gave the church an almost auditorium-like feel.
But the story of St John’s Episcopal Church isn’t just about its architecture. It’s about its resilient spirit. The church was moved 60 feet in 1936. This was to accommodate the widening of Woodward Avenue. Imagine the monumental task of disassembling and reassembling such a grand structure. The chapel however remains from the original construction. Its stained-glass windows speak of generations of worship.
Today St John’s Episcopal Church continues to serve its community. It’s a place of worship. It’s a historical landmark. It’s a reminder of Detroit’s enduring spirit. It’s a unique piece of the city’s past. A true treasure on Woodward Avenue. The church stands as a symbol of faith perseverance and the enduring power of community. It’s a place that invites you to step back in time. To reflect on the past and to look toward the future.