Historic St. Mark’s in NW Portland celebrates century-old building
The Parish of St. Mark
Portland, OR, May 20, 2025 — The Anglican Parish of St. Mark, located at NW 21st and Marshall Street in the heart of Portland’s Slabtown neighborhood, is Celebrating a Century of Faith. A series of events commemorating the building’s 100th anniversary are planned from June through November, beginning on June 22nd, with an Open House, guided church tours, and historical displays following a service to bless the cornerstone laid on this date in 1925.
This occasion marks a significant milestone in the rich history of St. Mark’s (founded in 1874). The 1925 cornerstone rests atop the cornerstone of the parish’s second building, dating to 1890. The present building is the third to house The Parish of St. Mark, reflecting the enduring faith and resilience of the congregation throughout the decades. St. Mark’s building, Romanesque in style, was designed by prominent Portland architect, Mr. Jamieson K. Parker, modeled after the 10th-century Basilica of San Zeno in Verona, Italy. Its appealing and regal architectural details are reflected in the church’s interior design with a tall, central nave and high ‘ship’s keel’ wooden ceiling, Romanesque arches, alternating courses of red and white brick walls and pillars, a magnificent rose window, and multiple walls of painted murals in the fresco style.
“This building has been a beacon of faith and community for a century, witnessing countless baptisms, weddings, and memorial services. It has been a steadfast presence in historic Slabtown and we look forward to sharing this treasure with our community,” notes Deacon Jaques. Research is underway to locate parishioners from over the years and their family members using the historic record books of those who were baptized, confirmed or married at St. Mark’s.
The June 22nd event begins with a traditional Anglican mass at 9 am and Asperges blessing of the cornerstone. History tours of the church begin at 11:30 am & 12:30 pm. Other commemorations include an oral history interview with longtime parishioners, musical tributes, and special services marking significant historical dates. The parish extends a warm invitation to the community to join in all of the celebrations. Find event details on the parish website at stmarkportland.org and social media channels.
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