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Historic Trinity Lutheran Church: A Soulard Landmark

Discover Historic Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Louis: a testament to faith, resilience, and stunning Gothic Revival architecture in the Soulard neighborhood.

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Historic Trinity Lutheran Church, located in St. Louis' Soulard neighborhood, is the oldest Lutheran church west of the Mississippi River. Founded in 1839 by German immigrants, the church boasts stunning Gothic Revival architecture and a rich history.

A brief summary to Historic Trinity

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to admire the intricate details of the church's architecture and stained-glass windows.
  • Check the church's website for service times, including the monthly service conducted in German.
  • Call the church office to arrange a tour and learn about the church's rich history and artifacts.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the Soulard neighborhood, walking to Historic Trinity is straightforward. Head towards Soulard Street and look for the prominent castle-like structure at 812 Soulard St. Enjoy the neighborhood's architecture and atmosphere as you approach.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the Soulard area. Check the St. Louis Metro website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Bus lines 10, 30 and 73 have routes that pass near Soulard. A single-ride MetroBus fare is $3.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in St. Louis. A short ride from downtown St. Louis to Historic Trinity in Soulard will typically cost between $15-$25, depending on demand and traffic.

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Discover more about Historic Trinity

Historic Trinity Lutheran Church stands as a testament to faith and architectural resilience in the heart of St. Louis' Soulard neighborhood. Established in 1839 by German immigrants seeking religious freedom, it is the oldest Lutheran congregation west of the Mississippi River. These Saxon immigrants, initially planning to settle in Perry County, Missouri, found a home in St. Louis and established what would become a cornerstone of Lutheranism in the region. The church's history is marked by both triumph and tragedy. The original building, constructed in 1864, was destroyed by a devastating tornado in 1896. Undeterred, the congregation rebuilt, incorporating the original pulpit and baptismal font, which miraculously survived the storm. The rebuilt church, completed in 1897, stands as an American Gothic masterpiece, a visual and spiritual beacon in the Soulard neighborhood. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning architecture, including the gleaming white and gold carved altar set against the pink backdrop of the vaulted sanctuary. Two massive stained-glass windows depict the Good Shepherd and the Victorious Savior, while display cases hold Bibles from the 1600s and memorabilia of C.F.W. Walther, a prominent pastor and one of the founders of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The church also houses a magnificent organ, a testament to the congregation's commitment to music and worship. Today, Historic Trinity continues to serve the community, offering services in both English and German. Its school, established in 1839, is the oldest continuously operating elementary school in St. Louis. Tours are available, providing insights into the church's history, architecture, and significance.

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