Built for an Episcopal parish by a well-known architect, it became a prominent component of the city's wealthy Millionaire's Row, due to its grand architecture.

St. Paul's Episcopal Church was founded in late 1846, and for two years the parishioners worshipped in a hotel before constructing a building at Fourth and Euclid downtown.

A fire destroyed the structure before it was completed, but people throughout the city contributed funds to build a brick replacement in 1851.

[2] Meanwhile, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cleveland was seven years into the process of establishing a monastery for perpetual Eucharistic adoration by the Poor Clares.

At one time considered Cleveland's grandest and largest church, it is distinguished by the unusual architecture of the peak of the bell tower, and the open interior features extensive detailing,[4] along with seating for one thousand worshippers.