St. Mary's Episcopal Church

St. Mary's is a Gothic Revival church located in Foggy Bottom featuring distinctive stained glass windows created by Tiffany Studios. The building displays a timber roof structure and ornate architectural details throughout its interior.

The church was founded in 1867 by people who left The Church of the Epiphany to establish their own congregation. It became the first African American Episcopal church in the city and remains an important landmark.

The church became a place where the African American community could gather freely and build their own spiritual home. Visitors walking through today can sense how this building has served as a center of belonging for generations.

The church is located at 730 23rd Street NW in Foggy Bottom and can be reached on foot from nearby neighborhoods. Visitors should check the schedule for worship services and community events before planning their visit.

The original chapel structure came from a former Civil War hospital building, provided by Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton. This repurposing shows how a military space was transformed into a home for worship.

Location: Washington, D.C.

GPS coordinates: 38.89889,-77.05389

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:41