Unitarian Universalist Church of Buffalo, Buffalo

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Buffalo, located on Elmwood Avenue in the heart of Buffalo’s Elmwood Village, is a historic landmark and an active spiritual home for a vibrant congregation. Originally established as the First Unitarian Church of Buffalo, the congregation merged in 1953 with the Universalist Church of the Messiah-both founded in 1831-to form the Unitarian Universalist Church of Buffalo, aligning with the national merger of their denominations in 1961.

The church building, completed in 1906, is a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture, designed by renowned architect Edward Austin Kent, who tragically perished aboard the Titanic in 1912. A memorial plaque inside the church honors his legacy. The project was made possible thanks to land donated by philanthropist John J. Albright and a generous mortgage payoff by Col. Charles Clifton, who ensured pews would remain free for all.

Architectural highlights include arched Indiana limestone walls, a crenelated turret, wrought-iron fleur-de-lis details on oak doors, and an impressive English Country Gothic-style interior. The sanctuary seats 400 beneath a majestic hammer beam ceiling and features walls and floors also made of Indiana limestone. Rich oak woodwork and Harry E. Goodhue’s Art Nouveau stained-glass windows add warmth and color throughout the space.

The church also houses a historic pipe organ, originally built in 1906 by the Hutchings-Votey Organ Company and later restored in 1960 by the Delaware Organ Company. This adds a powerful musical element to the church’s worship and events.

Beyond its architectural significance-recognized in 2015 with a listing on the National Register of Historic Places-the church serves as a dynamic community hub. It offers numerous educational and family-oriented activities, embodying the inclusive and thoughtful spirit of Unitarian Universalism.