History

Architectural History


Founded in 1888 on land donated by Elam Jewett, the parish was located in the “Buffalo plains,” the northern most edge of the City of Buffalo. The church became the center of a large and thriving Parkside neighborhood.  The design of the Church is in keeping with the Arts and Crafts movement, a style of simplicity and grace.  One of our Vestry Members,Darwin Martin, had his house built across the street from the parish; Frank Lloyd Wrightwas the architect.

About the Church Buildings


The main Church was completed in 1888.  The style is romanesque, a Richardsonian design done by Silsbee and Marlett.  The interior was elegant in its simplicity in that “any deviation from simplicity results in a loss of dignity,” a comment reflecting the Arts and Crafts movement.  The Rectory was completed in 1890

There are three sets of Tiffany windows at the front of the Church; Jesus, the Good Shepherd (behind the altar), Mary and the Child Jesus (to the right), and St. Paul (to the left).  The spider web which adorns the head of the Good Shepherd represents nature giving praise to God.  The altar is oak with the symbols of nature adorning it.  The banner reads: “Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd.”

The Children’s Chapel was finished in the 1930’s.  Behind the altar is a Tiffany windowrepresenting Jesus with the children.  The panels in the altar rail represent the Adoration of the Magi.  The panels on the side of the altar are of St. Francis and Mary kneeling in a garden.  The windows were done in the early 1900’s by a University of Buffalo artist.  The angels which adorn the altar are 16-17th century Italian.  The baptismal font is from Oberammergau, and the bronze lamps are 16th century works.

The Columbarium contains the ashes of many parishioners, and is a quiet place for prayer and reflection.  The mosaic of the Good Shepherd was done by The Rev. Allen Pendergraft, Rector of the parish from 1945 – 1949.

For an architectural tour of the Church, please call (716) 833-1151

For a Photo Gallery of Buffalo, present and past, by K. Josker, please click here.