Brick Presbyterian Church Complex 🇺🇸

Located in Rochester, Monroe County, New York, the Brick Presbyterian Church Complex—now known as Downtown United Presbyterian Church—offers you a captivating look into historic American sacred architecture. Originally designed in 1860 as an Early Romanesque Revival-style edifice by local Rochester architect Andrew Jackson Warner, the primary church and school structure underwent a fascinating transformation in 1903 when his son, J.

Foster Warner, modified it into a Lombard Romanesque style. As you explore this historic site, which was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992, you will discover a multi-building complex that showcases architectural evolution over nearly a century.

Key structures to see during your visit include the main Brick Church and Church School building, the attached Brick Church Institute building constructed between 1909 and 1910, and the later addition of the Taylor Chapel, which was built in 1941. It stands as a unique testament to multi-generational architectural artistry and local heritage in western New York.

What to see at Brick Presbyterian Church Complex

• Architectural transition from Early Romanesque Revival to Lombard Romanesque style
• Original 1860 church design by famous Rochester architect Andrew Jackson Warner
• 1903 structural modifications executed by his son, J. Foster Warner
• The attached Brick Church Institute building erected between 1909 and 1910
• Taylor Chapel addition constructed in 1941

Visiting tips

Take time to examine the exterior details to appreciate how two generations of the Warner family shaped the complex's Romanesque architecture.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Brick Presbyterian Church Complex is easy to reach on Rochester’s public transport, and pairs naturally with The National Museum of Play and Saint Michael's Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Rochester travel guide.