A Cleveland Landmark —

Awe-inspiring Architecture

Designed by Charles F. Schweinfurth, noted architect of many Cleveland churches and landmarks, Trinity Cathedral is an awe-inspiring example of neo-perpendicular Gothic architecture. The cathedral is cruciform, built in the shape of a cross. Every detail tells a story, from the intricate stained glass windows to the dark oak millwork. Gothic cathedrals are often described as parables in stone, designed to unite the “earthly city” with the yearnings for the “heavenly city.” Trinity Cathedral’s transcendent beauty does just that, serving as a sacred space for all people.

Limestone

Construction of this structure began in 1901. The major fabric of the building is Indiana limestone. Trinity Cathedral was consecrated on September 24, 1907. Estimated cost: $574,000.

The Tower

The Tower is 40-feet square and rises 108 feet from the floor level at the crossing. From the high altar to the back of the Nave, the cathedral is 163 feet long. From transept to transept the cathedral measures 107 feet.

The Pulpit

The pulpit, made of Pavonazza marble, is intricately carved with Christian symbols. The bronze eagle on the lectern carries the word of God all over the world. The lectern is supported by the four Gospel writers.

High Altar

One solid block of Pavonazza marble, weighing 8 ½ tons, is carved with the symbols of the Trinity. Inset in the mesa is a small stone from the Quarry of Solomon near Jerusalem and the site of the crucifixion of Christ.

Sedilia

Latin for “seats,” this is the place where the clergy sat for services. Above are four intricately carved panels with church symbols. This stonework took six months to carve.

Reredos

Ornamental screen of 59 stone figures features the risen Christ with arms outstretched in invitation. The reredos of Winchester Cathedral in England served as the model.

Bishop’s Throne

Carved in English oak, this throne makes Trinity a cathedral. “Cathedral” comes from the Latin word cathedra, meaning seat: the seat of the Bishop of Ohio.

Chancel/Choir

Using English oak, craftsmen who made cabinets for the White Sewing Machine Company carved hooded stalls for the dean, archdeacons, and canons of the church.

The Chapel

• The Transfiguration of Christ window (above the Chapel altar).
• Christ in white raiment is flanked by Moses and Elijah. Depicted below are James, John, and Peter.
• Small window on west wall features the Nativity, an intimate picture of Wise Men and the Holy Family, or Mistero.
• Two translucent Victorian windows saved from Old Trinity, represent charity and faith.
• In the arch above the altar rail is an oak boss, or decorative knob, carved in 1457 from the Southwark Cathedral in England.
• Memorial and thanksgiving plaques honor past parishioners, supporters, and contributors to the ministry and mission of Trinity Cathedral.
• The triptych above the altar dates to the 14th Century and portrays the Virgin Mary and child. For many years it was on loan to the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Cathedral Organs

• The great organ was designed by Johannes Steketee and built by Flentrop of Holland in 1977. This 18th century-style tracker organ, crafted from African mahogany, is positioned for optimum use at services and concerts.
• A new Muller pipe organ was installed In the chancel in 2021. This instrument combines the Aeolian-Skinner organ built originally for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Richmond, Virginia with pipes from a Skinner organ at the Church of the Transfiguration in Cleveland, donated by the Diocese of Ohio, along with new pipework and mechanical components. It has four manuals and 51 ranks.

The Baptistry

• The arches of the side aisles and the transept wall are supported by three columns to form the symbol of the Trinity.
• The white marble baptismal font was brought from Old Trinity. Inset in the basin are 10 stones from the River Jordan near the Damascus Ford where Jesus was baptized.
• The oak canopy above the basin replicates the cathedral’s bell tower.
• Stained glass window (north wall) shows John the Baptist baptizing Christ.
• A small portion of a French choir screen sits behind the altar. A bishop presides at a family baptism. A dog in the foreground represents faithfulness and fidelity.