St. Paul's Cathedral (Buffalo, New York) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saint Paul's Cathedral |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Location | 139 Pearl Street, Buffalo, New York |
| Country | United States |
| Denomination | Episcopal |
| Website | St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral |
| History | |
| Status | Parish church |
| Founded | 10 February 1817 |
| Founder(s) | Samuel Johnston |
| Dedicated | 22 October 1851 |
| Consecrated | 22 October 1851 |
| Architecture | |
| Functional status | "Active" |
| Completed | May 1873 |
| Construction cost | US$160 thousand |
| Specifications | |
| Height | 274 feet (83.5 m) |
| Materials | Medina sandstone |
St. Paul's Cathedral is an important church in downtown Buffalo, New York. It is the main church for the Episcopal faith in Western New York. The church stands on a special triangular piece of land. This land is bordered by Church, Pearl, Erie, and Main Streets.
The building was designed by Richard Upjohn and built between 1849 and 1851. Upjohn thought it was his best work. In 1888, a fire badly damaged the inside of the church. Robert W. Gibson then redesigned the interior. Because of its amazing design, the cathedral was named a National Historic Landmark in 1987.
Contents
History of St. Paul's Cathedral
In 1848, leaders of St. Paul's church in Buffalo decided to build a new stone church. They knew about architect Richard Upjohn's work. He had just finished building Trinity Church in New York City. The church leaders wanted only Upjohn to design their new building. They hired him right away.
Key Events in the Cathedral's History
- 1849: Construction on the new cathedral began.
- 1851: The cathedral was officially opened and dedicated.
- 1870: The tall spires on top of the two towers were completed.
- 1888: A fire, caused by a natural gas explosion, almost destroyed the building.
- 1890: The church reopened after being repaired. Robert W. Gibson oversaw this renovation.
The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. This list helps protect important historical sites. In 1987, the cathedral was given an even higher honor. It was declared a U.S. National Historic Landmark.
Architecture and Design
St. Paul's Cathedral has a unique shape. Its largest part is the nave, which is the main area where people sit. The church is built from red Medina sandstone. This stone has a smooth, cut finish. Strong supports called buttresses hold up the walls of the nave. These buttresses are decorated with Gothic finials, which are like small pointed ornaments.
Towers and Interior Features
The main tower and entrance are at the southwest end of the church. This tower reaches 275 feet (84 m) high. It has a tall steeple topped with a cross. A smaller tower stands 125 feet (38 m) tall at the north end.
Inside the cathedral, the floors are made of slate and marble mosaic tiles. The floor around the altar, which is a special table used for services, was made in France. The altar itself is made of beautiful Mexican onyx. All the oak furniture in the chancel, the area around the altar, was designed by Robert Gibson.
Gallery
-
Exterior of church, 1965
-
Interior of church, 1965
-
Exterior of church, 2009
See also
