Located in downtown Rochester, New York, St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church and Rectory offers a fascinating look into local history and architecture. Established in 1834 as Rochester's second Roman Catholic parish, this historic site features a church whose cornerstone was blessed in 1853 and officially dedicated in 1858. When you visit, you will appreciate architectural design influences reminiscent of Richard Upjohn and other notable church designers.
Pay special attention to the church's impressive spire and belfry, which were designed by Richard B. Arnold and added between 1939 and 1940. Atop the spire sits a shiny gilded cross, installed in June 2018 to replace the original wind-damaged cross. The building is also famous for hosting the August 31, 1873 wedding of celebrated actress and ballerina Giuseppina Morlacchi to cowboy scout and actor Texas Jack Omohundro.
Nearby, you will see the brick rectory, which was constructed in 1905 to replace an earlier structure. Recognised for its rich historic and cultural value, the entire church and rectory complex was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in March 1992. It is an ideal spot to admire classical 19th-century church craftsmanship right in the heart of downtown.
What to see at St. Mary's Church
- Historic parish established in 1834 as Rochester's second Roman Catholic parish
- Site of the 1873 wedding of Giuseppina Morlacchi and Texas Jack Omohundro
- Spire and belfry added in 1939–1940 featuring a gilded cross installed in 2018
- Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1992
Visiting tips
Look up at the spire to spot the replacement gilded cross that was installed in June 2018 following a windstorm.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
St. Mary's Church 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.
See the full Rochester travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.