In a crowded neighborhood with narrow streets, getting a picture of a large church like this is almost impossible without resorting to computer trickery. Fortunately old Pa Pitt has never been above computer trickery, and this is actually a composite of two photographs. The seams are nearly invisible, but if you look closely, you may notice the same pedestrian appearing twice at different points on the sidewalk.
Like many Catholic churches in the city, this one is no longer a worship site. Protestant churches can straggle on for decades with a dozen people showing up on Sunday, but the top-down organization of the Catholic Church makes it almost inevitable that decisions will be made on the basis of efficiency. St. Casimir’s, like the school formerly attached to it, is now condominium apartments.
Below, the distinctive towers, one of which is missing a column.
Addendum: The architect was Marius Rousseau; the church was finished in 1902. Source: “New Church Almost Ready,” Post, June 8, 1902. “St. Casimir’s Roman Catholic Church, which is being built at South Twenty-second and Sarah streets, at a cost of $70,000, will be dedicated June 22. The stone and brick building is a handsome one of Renaissance style of architecture designed by Architect Marius Rousseau. The pews will be placed in the main auditorium this week. Rev. Father John Sutkartis is pastor.”
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