Historic rectory of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Stamford will be history, soon

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Stamford, Connecticut happens to be a historic church that was built in 1860 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. It’s true that it is an active Anglo-Catholic parish in the Episcopal Diocese of Connecticut and attracts lots of followers up till now.

However there is a sad development as well. The same church, reviving an almost three-decade old battle with preservationists, is suggesting a development plan that would involve destroying its historic rectory in the heart of the downtown. Reason? The church is in the midst of a deal with developer Randy Salvatore and hence, it is looking for to rezone and sell the southern portion of its property at 1231 Washington Blvd. It has been learnt that the vicarage or rectory would be razed in order to make way for a four-story residential building consisting of 94 condominium units.

What’s more, Randy Salvatore has already agreed to build a new parish hall next to the existing church. The decision is no doubt astounding and as far latest information, it has led to a strong resentment in the vicinity. Speaking on this, Rev. Richard Alton, who is in charge at St. Andrew’s, said, “It’s a very difficult decision.” “The parish has an emotional attachment to all its buildings.” The plan will be heard at a public hearing before the Zoning Board before long.

However, the church is not without justifications. While Rev. Richard Alton said, “It is essentially being demolished by neglect right now,” as per him the church is compelled to take this decision as it has shortage of financial means to restore or maintain the rectory.

On the other hand, as indicated by him, different from the earlier days, the parish is in support of the sale and demolition, at present. What are the terms of deal? Alton is not ready to share it with anybody but is confident that the arrangement would enable the church to survive by establishing an endowment.