St. Paul Roman Catholic Church (St. Paul, Oregon)
St. Paul Roman Catholic Church is a historic church located in St. Paul, Oregon, United States. Founded in 1846, it is one of the oldest Catholic parishes in the state and a significant landmark in the Willamette Valley. The current church building, constructed between 1880 and 1886, is a prominent example of Gothic Revival architecture.
The parish traces its origins to Father François Norbert Blanchet, who arrived in Oregon Country in 1838 as a missionary. He established a mission at St. Paul, serving the needs of the French-Canadian settlers and Native Americans in the area. The original church was a log structure, replaced over time by larger, more permanent buildings.
The present church features a towering spire, stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork. It serves as a focal point for the community and a reminder of the area's early Catholic heritage. The church grounds also include a cemetery, containing the graves of many early settlers and prominent figures in Oregon history.
The church continues to function as an active parish within the Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon, providing religious services, education, and community outreach. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its historical and architectural importance.