St. Mary's Church, Albany

Saint Mary's Church holds a significant place in the history of Catholic missionary work in the New World. As the oldest Catholic congregation in upstate New York, Saint Mary's has been a cornerstone of the community since the late 18th century. The church has seen three different buildings over its history to accommodate its growing congregation, largely due to waves of immigration. The current structure, completed in 1867, stands as a testament to this rich heritage. Recognized for its historical and architectural significance, Saint Mary's was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 and is a contributing property to the Downtown Albany Historic District.

Architecturally, Saint Mary's is a striking example of the Italian Romanesque Revival style. The two-and-a-half-story, three-by-six-bay brick building features marble trim on a cut bluestone foundation, which becomes more visible towards the rear due to the land's slope. The west façade is dominated by the central bay, which projects slightly to form the base of the 175-foot bell tower, crowned with an angel of judgment. The main block of the church is topped by a steeply pitched gabled roof, and a five-section semicircular apse extends from the rear, enhancing its grandeur.

Inside, Saint Mary's contrasts its Romanesque exterior with a richly decorated interior that combines Mannerist and French Gothic styles. This blend creates an atmosphere of intricate beauty and spiritual reverence. The church was the first in Albany to be wired for electric lighting in 1894, showcasing its pioneering spirit. In 1912, the original stained glass windows were replaced, and today, these windows depict various saints and religious figures, adding to the church's serene and reflective ambiance.