St. David's Episcopal Church

Historic Manayunk Church Steeple to Be Repaired

(PHILADELPHIA, PA, August 28, 2007) - St. David's Episcopal Church, one of Manayunk's most historic and recognizable churches is getting a makeover. Last month, Francis J. Atkinson & Sons of Philadelphia began the process of cleaning and securing the steeple. The steeple, which rises 146 feet, has in recent years been a victim to the elements with small trees taking root in its spire.

Located on the 100 block of Dupont Street, St. David's Church is a historic gem in the community. The church was built in 1881 by local laborers and craftsmen, headed by local building contractor, Edward Struce. The church celebrated its 125th anniversary in December 2006. From 2000 to 2004, significant restoration work occurred at St. David's. The restoration work, led by two dedicated and hard-working parishioners, included painting (both interior and exterior), masonry work to repair walkways, new and improved lighting and the resetting of fallen tombstones in the church's cemetery. In addition, new louvres were installed in the steeple, and the bell room at the top of the steeple tower was repaired and re-cemented. The major part of the restorative work was completed on the interior of the historic church, where intricate stenciling and decorative painting was done.

Following this extensive renovation the congregation realized that extensive repairs needed to be completed on the steeple. At that time a fundraising campaign to "Save the Steeple" was begun. Parishioners and local supporters have helped the church raise over $40,000 for the renovation and repair of the historic steeple which has been featured over the years in many local and national publications, including the Philadelphia Inquirer and Parade Magazine. However, to complete the work, the church needs to raise an additional $20,000. To help save this historic landmark, donations are being gratefully accepted by the Church and can be sent to St. David's Episcopal Church Steeple Fund, P.O. Box 29102, Philadelphia, PA 19127.

St. David's Episcopal Church, located in Manayunk, celebrates the 175th anniversary of its founding and the 125th anniversary of the consecration of the church building in 2007. As such, it proudly led this year's annual 21st Ward Fourth of July parade. Holy Eucharist is held at 10:00AM every Sunday morning and is led by the Reverend E.F. Michael Morgan, Ph.D. with music by organist, Adlai Waksman. For more information, visit www.stdavidsmanayunk.org.

We are a small group of dedicated people enriching the Philadelphia/Manayunk area with a neighborhood tradition that dates back to the late 1800's. We look forward to seeing you sometime soon.

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