St. Joseph Church, Albany

Saint Joseph's Church, nestled in the historic Ten Broeck Triangle section of Albany, stands as a testament to Gothic architecture and religious heritage. The church, marking the second structure to bear the name in Albany, holds significant historical and architectural importance in the city's landscape. Recognized as a city landmark, Saint Joseph's Church contributes to Albany's skyline with its imposing presence and intricate design.

Constructed with blue limestone accented by Ohio sandstone, the church spans an impressive 14,000 square feet, boasting dimensions of 212 feet in length and 116 feet in width. Notably, the church incorporates 14 marble columns and 16 stained glass windows, adding to its visual grandeur. Its architectural features include three towers, with a striking main tower rising 235 feet into the sky. Illuminated at night, this tower houses 10 bells, further enriching the church's ambiance and serving as a beacon of faith in the community.

Despite its architectural magnificence, Saint Joseph's Church faced a period of decline, leading to its inclusion on the Historic Albany Foundation's Seven to Save list of endangered historical sites in 2000. Urgent measures were taken to address structural issues when the church was condemned due to the risk of collapse in 2001, underscoring the community's efforts to preserve this cherished landmark. Additionally, the church's cultural significance extends beyond its architectural beauty, as it served as a filming location for scenes in the movie "Ironweed" in 1987, adding to its rich tapestry of history and cultural relevance.