
Bethesda Episcopal Church, Saratoga Springs
Bethesda Episcopal Church is a historic landmark and a prominent place of worship in Saratoga Springs. Incorporated in 1830, the parish initially held services in a refitted spring house donated by John Clarke, located at what is now Congress Park. As the city grew and summer visitors increased, the need for a larger building became evident.
In 1841, the church acquired its current site on Washington Street, and under the design of renowned architect Richard Upjohn, construction began on an English Gothic-style stone church. The first services were held in 1844, with further additions, including side aisles, completed by 1856. The church's distinctive Norman Romanesque tower, designed by A. Page Brown and funded by Mrs. Rockwell Putnam in memory of her late husband, was added in 1887, along with stunning Tiffany stained-glass windows that enhance the building’s grandeur.
Listed as a contributing property in the Broadway Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places, Bethesda Episcopal Church stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and architectural beauty. The interior of the church features a striking hammer-beamed ceiling and is well known for its music programs, including a long tradition of choral and organ performances.
As Bethesda Episcopal Church approaches its bicentennial in 2030, it continues to thrive as a center of spiritual life and community service. Its location in the heart of Saratoga Springs, combined with its historical significance and architectural splendor, makes it an interesting landmark for those interested in history, faith, and the arts. Whether attending a service, enjoying a concert, or simply admiring its historic beauty, Bethesda Episcopal Church continues to inspire and uplift all who walk through its doors.
In 1841, the church acquired its current site on Washington Street, and under the design of renowned architect Richard Upjohn, construction began on an English Gothic-style stone church. The first services were held in 1844, with further additions, including side aisles, completed by 1856. The church's distinctive Norman Romanesque tower, designed by A. Page Brown and funded by Mrs. Rockwell Putnam in memory of her late husband, was added in 1887, along with stunning Tiffany stained-glass windows that enhance the building’s grandeur.
Listed as a contributing property in the Broadway Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places, Bethesda Episcopal Church stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and architectural beauty. The interior of the church features a striking hammer-beamed ceiling and is well known for its music programs, including a long tradition of choral and organ performances.
As Bethesda Episcopal Church approaches its bicentennial in 2030, it continues to thrive as a center of spiritual life and community service. Its location in the heart of Saratoga Springs, combined with its historical significance and architectural splendor, makes it an interesting landmark for those interested in history, faith, and the arts. Whether attending a service, enjoying a concert, or simply admiring its historic beauty, Bethesda Episcopal Church continues to inspire and uplift all who walk through its doors.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Saratoga Springs. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Bethesda Episcopal Church on Map
Sight Name: Bethesda Episcopal Church
Sight Location: Saratoga Springs, USA (See walking tours in Saratoga Springs)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Saratoga Springs, USA (See walking tours in Saratoga Springs)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Saratoga Springs, New York
Create Your Own Walk in Saratoga Springs
Creating your own self-guided walk in Saratoga Springs is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Saratoga Springs Introduction Walking Tour
Saratoga Springs, New York, is a city that wears its history well. The name Saratoga comes from the Mohawk word Sarachtogue, meaning “place of swift water,” and reflects the presence of mineral springs in the area. The Mohawk Indigenous peoples had long valued these springs before the arrival of Europeans.
The British built Fort Saratoga in 1691. The area’s first permanent settlement... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
The British built Fort Saratoga in 1691. The area’s first permanent settlement... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
Saratoga Springs Historical Buildings Walk
Saratoga Springs, New York, has a rich architectural heritage that reflects its past as a hub for tourism, horse racing, and health retreats. The Broadway Historic District is the heart of the city, featuring 19th- and early 20th-century buildings that house shops, restaurants, and grand hotels. One of these landmarks is the Adelphi Hotel, a luxurious 1877 structure that still exudes Gilded Age... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles