History

The first recorded Episcopal service in Fort Worth was held by the Rt. Rev. Alexander Gregg, Bishop of the Diocese of Texas, on October 14, 1860. William Hudson was licensed at that time to service Birdville and Fort Worth as Lay Reader. The Rt. Rev. Alexander C. Garrett, Bishop of the newly-created jurisdiction of Northern Texas, established Saint Andrew's Parish on March 17, 1875, with membership of ten and the Rev. Edwin Wickens, Missionary in Charge. Bishop Garrett chose the name St. Andrew's at the request of Henry Smith, a churchman of Connecticut, who gave $500 for a church building. St. Andrew's became a parish in 1878, with the Rev. T. J. Mackey as Rector and, with 64 communicants, built its first parish church at Rusk and Commerce Streets. Its members included many pioneer Fort Worth Families.

The present church building dates from 1910. First used for a service on May 12, 1912, it was consecrated Dec 31, 1939. The chapel and parish house were completed and consecrated in 1949, and Ryan House, our Christian Education center, was completed in 1986.

With its history and heritage downtown, St. Andrew's may rightly be called the "mother" Episcopal Church of Fort Worth.

 

	HISTORY BOOKLET In 1975, St. Andrew's published a booklet exploring the history of the church. This booklet is available for you in digital format. Read the Booklet
	ST. ANDREW'S PROFILE Read the Church Profile