ST. JOHN'S CHURCH
St. John's Church was completed in 1874. That year the properties were donated by Mr. Elbert Gantt to the Rector, Wardens and Vestrymen "to further the cause of morality and religion". In 1892, a town lot known as "Gantt's Addition" was sold to St. John's for $1.00 by H.L. Bidstrup who owned the surrounding property. St. John's was a functioning parish until 1970. The architecture is in the tradition of the nineteenth-century Anglican Gothic Revival Movement known as the Ecclesiological Movement. This Middle English gothic architecture is considered the most perfect and appropriate style for churches. St. John's is one of only a few such churches remaining and is a vital part of Louisiana's legacy of historic church architecture. It was accepted on the National Register of Historic Places and was rededicated in November, 2002. It is located in the historic steamboat town of Washington, Louisiana that was founded in 1721 as the third oldest settlement in Louisiana.
The church, parsonage and land was donated to the Washington Garden Club in 2002 and has been involved in its preservation and restoration since that time through the efforts and generous support of its members, friends, and volunteers. It also supports its programs through rental of St. John's as a wedding chapel, special events, memorials and organized events for those visiting the town of Washington.
ST. JOHN'S CHURCH RENTAL
This historic Church is a favorite location for weddings, baptisms and special events. Built in 1874, it is on the National Register of Historic Places and with its original wooden pews, accommodates 150 guests. The parsonage building is available for changing rooms. Wedding rental fees start at $500. A deposit of $100 is required on booking, balance due 30 days prior to event. Payments should be made to: Washington Garden Club and mailed to : Lindy Taylor, 487 White Oak Rd., Washington, LA 70589
For availability and information or an appointment to see the church, contact Linda Taylor-at 337-826-6518 or email us at washingtongardenclub@yahoo.com. See a list of confirmed weddings on the Calendar of Events page of this website.
Wedding Gallery Photos: Click on small photos to see larger image.
The Washington Garden Club
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