Historic St. Andrew's Church | Staten Island

Here’s a detailed look at Historic St. Andrew’s Church on Staten Island:

Founding and Early History

Establishment:
The Church of St. Andrew was founded in 1708, making it one of the oldest Episcopal congregations in New York City. It was established by the Church of England’s Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts as a missionary church to serve early settlers on Staten Island.

First Building:
The original church structure was constructed between 1709 and 1712. In 1712, Queen Anne granted the parish a royal charter and donated sacred communion vessels, officially recognizing it as a parish.

Revolutionary War:
During the American Revolution, the church was used as a hospital by British forces, marking its role in the turbulent history of the time.

Architecture

Current Building:
The original church building was severely damaged by two fires in 1867 and 1872. The current church was rebuilt shortly after in 1872.

Architectural Style:
The rebuilt church features a Victorian Norman-Gothic style, characterized by:

Use of fieldstone and red brick for walls and trim.

Pointed arches, steep gables, and buttresses typical of Gothic revival architecture.

Interior elements that blend 19th-century Victorian design with historic ecclesiastical motifs.

Burch Hall:
Built in 1924, Burch Hall serves as a parish hall and community space adjoining the church, designed to complement the church’s architecture.

Cemetery

Churchyard:
Surrounding the church is a historic cemetery containing gravestones dating from the late 1700s onward.

Notable Burials:
Includes early rectors such as Rev. Richard Charlton, who is notable for being the maternal grandfather of Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first native-born U.S. saint.

Pet Cemetery:
A smaller pet cemetery is located at the rear of the grounds, reflecting a long-standing connection with the local community.

Community Role and Activities

Religious Services:
St. Andrew’s continues as an active Episcopal parish offering weekly worship services, baptisms, weddings, and funerals.

Cultural Events:
The church hosts community events, concerts, lectures, and educational programs, fostering engagement in the Richmondtown neighborhood.

Historic Preservation:
St. Andrew’s is a designated historic site, preserved both for its architectural significance and its important role in Staten Island’s colonial and religious history.

Paranormal Reputation

Haunted History:
The church is known locally for reported paranormal activity, including:

Unexplained footsteps and voices.

An organ playing by itself.

Pictures falling off walls without cause.

These phenomena have made it a point of interest for ghost hunters and those curious about supernatural history.

Location and Visitor Information

Address:
40 Old Mill Road, Staten Island, NY 10306

Visiting Hours:
Typically open weekdays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; check the parish website or call ahead for special tours or events.

Contact:
Phone: (718) 351-0900

Summary

Historic St. Andrew’s Church is a deeply rooted Staten Island landmark, combining:

Early 18th-century colonial religious heritage

Victorian Gothic architectural charm

A historic cemetery with connections to American saints

An active role in community life for over 300 years

A mysterious paranormal legacy that adds to its intrigue

It offers a rich experience for visitors interested in history, architecture, spirituality, and local culture.