St Joseph's Roman Catholic Church - Ambler, PA

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The church was established in 1920, and there was a need to establish a church in Ambler. Under the leadership of Reverend Joseph T. McDermott (1879-1945), the congregation purchased a tract that belonged to the Knight estate extending from South Main and Spring Garden Streets.

Building a Church

In 1921, the church built the school that was designed by Philadelphia architect Charles J. Cummiskey. It was possible the church was being built during the same time. The church was 38 by 62 feet, constructed by Quakertown resident Herman Sattler.

The church was dedicated and opened on December 15, 1923. The entry to the church was originally located on South Main Street.

Clipping from Ambler Gazette (March 18, 1920): Page 5

Clipping from Ambler Gazette (August 19, 1920): Page 4

Clipping from the Philadelphia Builders' Guide (1921): Page 27

Clipping from the Philadelphia Builders' Guide (1921): Page 108

Clipping from Ambler Gazette (August 23, 1923): Page 6

Clipping from Ambler Gazette (November 29, 1923): Page 6

Clipping from Ambler Gazette (December 13, 1923): Page 10

Montgomery County 1927 Reading Main Line Vol 1, Plate 031 - Ambler Borough 1, Upper Dublin Township 1; Frank H. M. Klinge, Publisher

Current Google Maps view of the former entry to the St. Joseph's Church

Over time, the church continued to expand, leading to a convent built for the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1928. The convent was designed by the Henry D. Dagit & Sons.