Our History
Starting in 1846, the story of
our parish is part of the
Story of Mansfield.
Step into our timeless journey, beginning in 1867. Our parish’s history intertwines with the vibrant tapestry of Mansfield, weaving a narrative that reflects the heart and soul of our community. Explore the moments, milestones, and memories that have shaped us into who we are today.
Our first building sat on Third Street, where the
Richland County Public Library Now Sits
This church contained an organ purchased with funds from handicrafts made by the church women. The first rectors received about $150 to $200 per year, and usually did not stay for long. By the century’s end, our parish looked to build a new home. The parish offered its property for $10,000 to the trustees of the planned Carnegie Library and to build in a new location, with a contingency to build on its current site.
Before the finalization of the move, parishioner, Senator, and Secretary of State John Sherman died. His funeral on October 25,1900 is a major event in Mansfield history. Mourners included President William McKinley.
The new church was designed by
Local Architect Vernon Redding
Plans called for a building designed in traditional Gothic style, and with seating for 432 with an additional 60 to 70 in an adjacent chapel.
Ground was broken for the church on June 30, 1905, and a cornerstone was laid in early September of that year. By February 1906, the congregation began to meet in the basement room of the building. On November 17, 1907, Grace Episcopal Church was dedicated with a service presided over by The Right Reverend W.A. Leonard, Bishop of Ohio. In his sermon, Bishop Leonard used a verse from the second chapter of Haggai:
"I will fill this house with glory,
Saith the Lord of Hosts."
The current church building was constructed between 1905 and 1914, and cost $40,000, considerably over the predicted sum of $25,000. It was constructed of Sandusky limestone, trimmed with Bedford stone. Newspaper accounts noted that that interior was different than other Mansfield churches, particularly in the massive wood beams in the ceiling and the “shape of the furniture.” The brass communion rail was a gift of Charles Kelley King. Many of the stained-glass windows were crafted in Munich, Germany and delayed in transit due to World War I.
The Founding of the Episcopal Church
This series of six articles explores the founding of the Episcopal Church in the 1770s and 1780s, shaped by the Revolutionary War’s impact on Church of England ties in the United States. It delves into the challenges of uniting Episcopalians in a new country, navigating diverse values in church governance, ritual practices, and liturgy. These articles offer insights for addressing current differences within the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion globally.
