History
Cleveland’s First Christian Congregation
A Remarkable Story
For more than 200 years, Trinity has served the spiritual and physical needs of greater Cleveland.
While Trinity Cathedral has a remarkable history, having stood for over 100 years itself, Trinity’s congregation is even more historic. In fact, Trinity is the oldest Christian congregation in the city of Cleveland.
1816
A Parish is Founded
1816
Trinity parish was founded in the home of Phineas Shepherd on November 9, 1816 in Brooklyn, Ohio, though Episcopalians had been present from the time of Moses Cleveland’s arrival. The first rector was Roger Searle. From 1820 to 1825, the parish worshipped in Brooklyn, where many of the members lived.
1829
The First Church
1829
As the parish grew, the congregation moved into a frame church built at the corner of St. Clair and Seneca (formerly West 3rd Street). Consecrated in 1829, it became the first church building within the village limits of Cleveland. By 1846, plans were underway for a larger, centrally located Gothic-style church just east of Public Square at East 6th Street and Superior Avenue, which the congregation moved into in 1855.
1890
Home of the Diocese
1890
Since 1836, Trinity Parish had maintained a close relationship with the Diocese of Ohio, beginning when the bishop was invited to live adjacent to the church. In 1890, Trinity Church was offered to Bishop William A. Leonard as a cathedral for the Diocese of Ohio. From that time forward, Trinity assumed a dual role as an active parish while also serving as the diocesan cathedral.
1907
Cathedral Construction
1907
Under Bishop Leonard’s leadership, plans for a new Gothic cathedral took shape. Charles F. Schweinfurth, a nationally recognized Cleveland architect known for designing many of the city’s churches, residences, and public buildings, was commissioned for the project. Many prominent local families, including the Mather family, contributed great financial support to the new cathedral. Construction began in 1901 and Trinity Cathedral was consecrated on September 24, 1907.
2002
Trinity Commons
2002
In 2002, Trinity Commons was built containing meeting and program space for nonprofit, corporate, and community groups throughout Northeast Ohio. Trinity Commons is a community-facing event and education center for the people of Greater Cleveland offering programming that inspires, nourishes, and celebrates the sacred in all people.
Today
A Sacred Place for All
Today
Today, Trinity Cathedral has assumed the role of a medieval cathedral in a modern society. The cathedral’s location in the heart of the city enables the church to provide spiritual, social, educational, and outreach programs to serve the greater community and to serve as a cultural arts center. We are working to realize the promise of our architecture by becoming a piazza, where everyone is invited to gather, learn, pray, and be faithful stewards of God’s bounty.
Awe-inspiring Architecture
A Cleveland Landmark
Designed by Charles F. Schweinfurth, noted architect of many Cleveland churches and landmarks, Trinity Cathedral is an awe-inspiring example of neo-perpendicular Gothic architecture. Every detail tells a story, from the intricate stained glass windows to the dark oak millwork. Gothic cathedrals are often described as parables in stone, designed to unite the “earthly city” with the yearnings for the “heavenly city.” Trinity Cathedral’s transcendent beauty does just that, serving as a sacred space for all people.
Docents
Tour the Cathedral
On select Sundays, docent-led tours are held between the worship services.
You’ll learn about the cathedral’s history, architecture, art, music, windows and more. Even congregants and regular visitors are sure to discover things they have never seen before.
Upcoming Tour Dates
Visitor's Guide
A Downtown Destination
Want to learn more about the cathedral?
Download the Visitor’s Guide to read about the history, architecture, and fun facts about Trinity Cathedral. The guide includes a layout of the cathedral with various points of interest marked.