St. Ann Catholic Church - Baltimore MD - This Old Church on Waymarking.com

From the church website:

OUR HISTORY
St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church on Greenmount Avenue and 22nd Street was erected through the generosity of Captain William Kennedy, commander of one of the most famous Baltimore clipper ships, “The Wanderer”. Caught in a raging storm off the coast of Vera Cruz in 1833, Captain Kennedy vowed that if the anchor of his ship held secure, and if he and his crew returned safely to port, he would build a church as testament of his gratitude to God. The anchor held.

Upon returning to Baltimore, Captain Kennedy gave up his life at sea and sold his brig. He did, however, keep his anchor and chain. Ture to his promise in 1872 Captain Kennedy and his wife, Mary Ann Jenkins, secured property and funds for the church which was to be named for Saint Ann, the patron saint of sailors. The cornerstone was laid in 1873, the same year that both Captain Kenney and Mrs. Kennedy died. Although neither of them lived to see the church completed, they are both buried under the main aisle of St. Ann Church.

The church as completed in 1874 and was later expanded to increase the seating capacity. Later a school and convent were also added. In 1925 the original anchor was restored and placed on the stone cradle beside the cornerstone where it remains today. The historic, cultural and architectural significance of this church is well-documented in the church archives, and the Church of St. Ann continues to be a neighborhood landmark.

Because of the thousands of dedicated religious and lay leaders down through the years, and the spirit of God among us, St. Ann’s continues to joyfully celebrate for more than 140 years. Presently, as a predominantly African American faith community, St. Ann’s continues to reaffirm its mission to the East Baltimore community.

As we look back over the storms and challenges that St. Ann’s has faced from its beginning until today, we praise God that our anchor still holds and grips the solid Rock-Jesus. Through the years-past, present, future-God’s love remains constant and as secure as the anchor that held Captain Kennedy’s ship so long ago.

Date the Church was built, dedicated or cornerstone laid: 01/01/1873 Age of Church building determined by?: Church website If denomination of Church is not part of the name, please provide it here: Catholic If Church holds a weekly worship service and "all are welcome", please give the day of the week: Sunday Indicate the time that the primary worship service is held. List only one: 11:00 AM Street address of Church: Greenmount Ave and East 22nd Street Baltimore, MD United States 221218 Primary website for Church or Historic Church Building: [Web Link] Secondary Website for Church or Historic Church Building: [Web Link] If Church is open to the public, please indicate hours: Not listed

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Date Logged Log User Rating   08/26/2021 Don.Morfe visited it