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A Brief History of St. Paul's
In 1834, a small group of Episcopalians who had migrated to New Albany founded St.Paul's, the first Episcopal parish in Indiana. They met in various locations until 1839 when a small frame church was constructed. It was dedicated by the noted Rt. Rev. Jackson Kemper, Bishop of the Missouri Territory.
After 25 Years and congregational growth, the small church was sold, replaced by a larger frame structure in a new location. It's impressive dedication was conducted by the presiding bishop. The still fledgling parish struggled financially, to the point that the Vestry mortgaged the property to pay the rector and meet parish expenses.
Another quarter century of growth necessitated a larger building and in 1890 put building plans on hold, and to compound matters the old church was being burned. Undaunted, the congregation met in a small cottage that was adjacent to the present church building. The cornerstone for the new building was laid in 1895, and the first service was held the next year.In 1905 the debt was retired and the building dedicated
The small cottage left standing at the south side of the church served as the parish house and the Carriage House became available.They were purchased and the cottage was torn down. Since that time, the parish house and the carriage house have undergone several transformations.
Over the years, St Paul's has owned four rectories, the last having been sold in 1970. During it's 175 year history, St Paul's has had 35 rectors. In the early years, many stayed only a year or two. Since World War I, the average tenure has been 11 years.
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