Christ Church is a small but powerful beacon of faith in Bayfield, Wisconsin.

Step into a timeless treasure at Christ Episcopal Church, an exquisite, unaltered mid-19th-century Carpenter’s Gothic gem nestled in Bayfield, Wisconsin.

Founded on April 8, 1870, this sacred space stands as one of Wisconsin’s best-preserved historic churches, proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974. Its breathtaking architecture and meticulous craftsmanship continue to captivate visitors, offering a glimpse into the artistry and devotion of its era.

Architectural Marvels of the Exterior

The church’s Carpenter’s Gothic style is a feast for the eyes, characterized by vertical board-and-batten walls, a steeply pitched gable roof, and a subtly pointed entrance arch. Don’t miss the delicate, scroll-sawn gingerbread bargeboards adorning the front gables—a hallmark of this architectural style.

Over the years, thoughtful additions have enhanced its charm, including the Queen Anne bell tower with its distinctive pyramidal roof, added in 1883 at the southeast corner, and the graceful semicircular apse constructed in 1893 at the west end. The radiant Tiffany-style stained glass windows, installed between 1892 and 1896, add vibrant color and spiritual depth to the structure, drawing visitors to pause and reflect on their beauty.

Interior Splendor and Sacred Details

Inside, the Gothic Revival design unfolds in all its glory. The pyramidal roof, supported by pointed arches, scalloped louvers, and bracketed gables, creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate. The elaborate chancel arch, crafted from locally milled white pine, separates the nave from the chancel and sanctuary, showcasing the same stunning craftsmanship as when it was built in 1870.

Original varnished wood carvings and pews add warmth and authenticity, inviting visitors to connect with the church’s rich history. The Tiffany-style stained glass windows—three behind the altar from 1892 and larger flanking windows from 1896—bathe the sanctuary in ethereal light, their intricate designs complementing the curved rear gable of the semicircular sanctuary.

Special features elevate the church’s spiritual and cultural significance. The high altar, a cherished gift from 1873, was rediscovered in 1996 and lovingly restored for use in Holy Eucharist services, linking past and present worshippers. A hanging sacrament lamp, added in 1996, glows as a symbol of the Blessed Sacrament in the Tabernacle, adding a warm, sacred ambiance.

The Icon of Our Lady of Walsingham, hand-painted in 1996 by artist Christine Pohuly, is a masterpiece that blends sacred art with local culture. Depicting Mary and the Christ Child alongside regional symbols and Native American artistic influences, it serves as a powerful testament to the church’s deep connection to its Bayfield community.

Historical Timeline

• 1857: C. B. Rittenhouse donated the land on which Christ Episcopal Church would later be built, laying the groundwork for its establishment. The outbreak of the Civil War during this period brought prosperity to Bayfield, as the demand for the area’s lumber surged, fueling economic growth and setting the stage for the church’s founding.

• 1870: On April 8, Christ Episcopal Church was founded as the Church Mission of Bayfield, marking it as Northern Wisconsin’s first Episcopal church. The original structure, a rectangular sanctuary with a gabled entry, was constructed from local white pine lumber and remarkable attention to detail, embodying the Carpenter’s Gothic style and laying the foundation for its enduring legacy. The mission was formally organized in the Diocese of Wisconsin under Bishop Jackson Kemper.

• 1873: A generous donor gifted the high altar, which was placed in the chancel as a focal point for worship. Lost to time for over a century, it was rediscovered in 1996 and meticulously restored, allowing it to resume its sacred role in Holy Eucharist services and reconnecting the congregation with its historical roots. The original hand-hewn pews also remain in use today.

• 1883: A square belfry-tower with a distinctive Queen Anne-style pyramidal roof was added to the southeast corner, enhancing the church’s silhouette and providing a functional and aesthetic upgrade that complemented its Gothic charm.

• 1893: The west end of the church was transformed with the addition of a semicircular apse, creating a more expansive and graceful sanctuary space that enriched the worship experience and aligned with the evolving needs of the congregation.

• 1892–1896: The installation of Tiffany-style stained glass windows marked a significant enhancement to the church’s beauty. In 1892, three windows were placed behind the altar, casting vibrant light into the sanctuary. In 1896, larger flanking windows were added, their intricate designs further elevating the spiritual and artistic ambiance.

• 1948: The original cedar post foundation, which had supported the church for nearly eight decades, was replaced with a more durable concrete foundation, ensuring the structure’s stability and preservation for future generations.

• 1974: On December 26, Christ Episcopal Church was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a testament to its architectural significance and historical value as one of Wisconsin’s best-preserved 19th-century churches.

• 1996: Two meaningful additions enriched the church’s spiritual life. A hanging sacrament lamp was installed, its gentle glow signifying the presence of the Blessed Sacrament in the Tabernacle. Additionally, the Icon of Our Lady of Walsingham was consecrated, a hand-painted work by Christine Pohuly that weaves together sacred imagery, regional symbols, and Native American artistry, celebrating the church’s deep ties to its community.