The authoritative source on
  early churches of New Jersey

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We've created a database and photographic inventory on more than half the 18th & 19th century churches in the state and add to it each month. We welcome and solicit all contributions and suggestions from our visitors.

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Grace Van Vorst Church
Jersey City, Hudson County

Founded in 1847, this Episcopal church was designed by Detlef Lienau, an architect of some repute in the middle of the nineteenth century, and erected in 1850, when Van Vorst Township had not yet been incorporated into Jersey City. It conforms today in all major respects to the principles of the Ecclesiology movement (east oriented chancel, which is separate from the nave, a transept, Gothic arch windows, side aisles, etc.), but that was not the case when it was built. In 1864 under the direction, I am certain, of Episcopal Bishop George Washington Doane, who believed that all Episcopal churches should follow models based on the English parish churches of the 14th century, the aisles and chancel were added and extended, as was the tower and other elements. This is not any more Mr. Lienau's church than it is Doane's. Even the ivy that covered the walls in the last century had been imported from Lambeth Palace in London, the seat of the head of the Anglican Church in England. Needless to say, Doane was very "high church."The church is on the National Register.

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Copyright (c) 2001 Frank L. Greenagel