05/26/2024
This is the fourth in our ongoing series of posts for Preservation Month ...
As a new events venue known as The 1833, the former Trinity Episcopal Church at the corner of Walnut and Franklin streets is once again the scene of many celebratory milestones. One of the five oldest buildings surviving in Troy (with construction starting in 1833 - hence its current name), the former church is the city's only remaining building with noteworthy ties to its canal era. William Henry Harrison dedicated the newest portion of the canal on the steps of the church in July 1837, a few years before he became president. The oldest building left in Troy that was used as a school, the former church also has significant documented ties to the Underground Railroad. Early church member Thomas Barrett brought dozens of fugitive slaves to the church for religious instruction. Prominent church members ranged from Asa Coleman, Troy's first physician on whose farm the church's clay bricks were fired, to many early community industrialists such as the Hobart family.
The church was threatened in 2017-18 by demolition as the Family Abuse Shelter, which owned the property and the neighboring Franklin House, announced plans to expand. A public campaign to save the church ensued, led by a citizens committee - Unity for Trinity - the forerunner of the Troy Historic Preservation Alliance. The Family Abuse Shelter ultimately decided to relocate to another facility in Troy that would better support its mission.
In 2020, Historic Troy LLC purchased the former church building and Franklin House. Scott Strayer of Historic Troy LLC embarked on a multi-year renovation of the building, restoring its gorgeous stained glass windows and highlighting its historic beauty, such as beams visible in the lower level that span the entire length of the church. The 1833 recently opened as a unique event venue in close proximity to downtown Troy and its many popular attractions. Scott also has plans to renovate the Franklin House next door. Scott, we are grateful for your hard work and investment to again make this historic gem a community asset that contributes to our downtown! Photo by Martin Stewart.
