St. Mary's Episcopal Church (Elverson, Pennsylvania) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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St. Mary's Episcopal Church
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | Warwick Rd., Warwick Township, Elverson, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 1.3 acres (0.53 ha) |
| Built | 1843 |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 96000082 |
| Added to NRHP | February 16, 1996 |
St. Mary's Episcopal Church, also known as Old Saint Mary's Church, is a historic Episcopal church located in Warwick Township, near Elverson. It is found in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
The church was built in 1843. It is a one-story, rectangular building made of fieldstone covered with stucco. This means the stone walls are coated with a special plaster. The church is designed in the Gothic Revival style, which looks like old European cathedrals. It is about 50 feet wide and 70 feet deep. A cemetery surrounds the church, with some burials dating back to 1806.
Contents
The Church's Early History
The first church building on this site was started in 1806. It was founded by Reverend Levi Bull in 1805. Some historians believe this was the very first church built in Pennsylvania after the American Revolutionary War.
Important People and Events
Reverend Bull served the church for nearly 50 years. During his time, the original church was replaced by the building you see today. This new building was finished in 1843. A famous military officer, Samuel Van Leer, who was important in the American Revolutionary War, is buried in the church's cemetery.
A Look at the Church's Style
St. Mary's Episcopal Church is a great example of Gothic Revival architecture. This style became popular in the 1800s. It brought back ideas from medieval Gothic cathedrals.
Key Features of Gothic Revival
You can often see pointed arches and tall windows in Gothic Revival buildings. They also use strong, natural materials like stone. St. Mary's Church shows these features in its design.
St. Mary's Church Today
By the 1970s, not many people were attending the church. However, in the 1990s, the church received help and its community grew again.
Becoming a Historic Landmark
Because of its long history and special architecture, St. Mary's Episcopal Church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. This means it is recognized as an important historical site.
Images for kids
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St. Mary's Episcopal Church
