Saint Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 🇺🇸

You will find Saint Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church at the intersection of Barr and Madison Streets in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Organized in 1837, this historic landmark holds a special place in regional history as the second oldest Lutheran church in Indiana and the very oldest in the northern part of the state. It has long played a prominent role in Indiana Lutheranism and the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS) thanks to its sheer size and the strong leadership of its pastors.

When you visit, you can admire an impressive structure designed in the High Victorian Gothic style by the architectural firm Wing & Mahurin. The present church building was originally dedicated in September 1889 on the exact site of the congregation's original 1839 home. Although a major fire tragically left the building in ruins in December 1903, the devoted congregation quickly began reconstruction, restoring the majestic edifice to its former glory by April 1905.

Later enhanced with renovations starting in the late 1940s, the church was officially recognized for its deep historical significance when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Stop by to appreciate this resilient, beautifully restored architectural treasure.

What to see at Saint Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church

• Oldest Lutheran church in northern Indiana, organized in 1837
• High Victorian Gothic architecture designed by Wing & Mahurin
• Rebuilt and restored to glory in 1905 following a major 1903 fire
• Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982

Visiting tips

Take time to view the exterior architecture at Barr and Madison Streets to appreciate a site that has housed the congregation since 1839.

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

How to get there & what’s nearby

Saint Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church is easy to reach on Fort Wayne’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Fort Wayne Children's Zoo and Fort Wayne Museum of Art. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Fort Wayne travel guide.