October 2015
Saint Stephen’s church is a masterpiece in understated elegance and master craftsmanship. It sits on South Franklin Street and is a downtown landmark.
The church is built of locally-quarried yellow stone and was the second church that Philadelphia architect Charles M. Burns designed for the site: the first, built in 1885, burned down on Christmas Day 1896 leaving only the tower standing.
These hammer beam trusses that support the roof, are capped with wooden angels.
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The polychrome brickwork is just so subtle, notice the faux arches created simply with the brick.
The altar area is topped with a spectacular dome, while it appears to be a mosaic, it is not actually known what the material is, whether it is an applique or paint.
The pipe organ is just stunning and the church is used for many a music venue.
While there are no Tiffany windows in St. Stephens this plaque was done by the Tiffany Company
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