c.1880s Pennsylvania Church For Sale $30K

There are 2 structures Former church and rectory. Rectory is condemned by the Shenandoah Boro. The rectory is unsafe to enter. No entry is allowed. The former St Johns Evangelical Lutheran church is in poor condition. Electric meters were pull at both structures. Buyers to contact the Shenandoah Boro for zoning and condemned status. Being sold in as is condition and shall survive settlement. Hold harmless agreement must be signed before access to the former church. NO ACCESS TO THE FORMER RECTORY. Looking for a buyer to bring back a usage to the church. Tear down the rectory for parking options. Buyer to obtain inspections, permits from the boro and or county. The old stone church, once a beacon of the community now stands silent . Its stained glass windows let in the light. Looking for a creative buyer to bring this property back as a positive impact. 

• Studio
• 5,042sqft
• 6,098sqft lot
• Circa 1900

115-119 W Cherry St W, Shenandoah, PA 17976  $30,000

If interested in a property, please contact the realtor whose link is provided in the post below, or contact an agent of your own choosing. Independent verification of details and status is recommended. 

• Contact Realtor: Helen Miernicki
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St. John’s Lutheran Church in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, has a rich history that reflects the broader story of the town and its community. Shenandoah, located in Schuylkill County, was a booming coal mining town in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting a diverse population, including many European immigrants. Among them were German Lutherans, who played a significant role in the establishment of St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Founding and Early History

St. John’s Lutheran Church was established in the late 19th century to serve the spiritual needs of the growing Lutheran community in Shenandoah. The exact founding date is typically recorded as the 1870s or 1880s, during a period when many Lutheran churches were being established in Pennsylvania due to the influx of German immigrants.

The congregation originally met in a modest building or shared space before constructing the dedicated church building. Over time, as the congregation grew, so did the church’s physical presence. The architecture of the church reflected the Gothic Revival style, which was popular among many churches built during this period.

Development and Community Role

As the town of Shenandoah grew with the coal mining industry, so did St. John’s Lutheran Church. The church became a central part of the community, not only as a place of worship but also as a gathering spot for various social and community events. The church offered services in German initially, gradually transitioning to English as the congregation adapted to American culture and as subsequent generations became more assimilated.

Throughout the 20th century, St. John’s continued to serve the community through periods of change, including the decline of the coal industry, which had a significant impact on the region. Despite these challenges, the church remained a steadfast presence in Shenandoah, providing spiritual support and maintaining a sense of community among its members.

Modern Era

In recent decades, like many historic churches in small towns, St. John’s Lutheran Church has faced challenges related to declining membership and the need to maintain its historic building. Thus, the church fell into disrepair, was closed and is on the market.

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