Annunciation Church
Houston, Harris County, Texas
Marker Inscription
In style of great European churches. The work of the very Rev. Joseph Querat, a canon of Cathedral of Lyons, France, and missionary to Texas 1852-1878. Begun 1867 when Father Querat (with aid of parishioners) bought old Harris County Courthouse to get bricks for foundation; completed 1874. Sacristy and steeple were added 1881-1884 by plans of Nicholas J. Clayton (1849-1916), a leading Texas architect of the late 19th century. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1969
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Modeled on the great churches of Europe, Annunciation Church was begun in 1867 by Father Joseph Querat, a French canon of the Cathedral of Lyons who served as a missionary to Texas. To fund the foundation, parishioners bought the old Harris County Courthouse for its bricks, completing the main church in 1874. A sacristy and steeple designed by noted Texas architect Nicholas J. Clayton followed in the 1880s, giving Houston one of its landmark 19th-century sanctuaries.
Why it matters
The church reflects the reach of European missionaries and immigrant craftsmanship in building the religious and architectural fabric of a young Houston.
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Related people
- · Joseph Querat
- · Nicholas J. Clayton
Themes & tags
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