PALATKA, Fla. – St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Palatka is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the city announced Wednesday.
The church at 809 St. Johns Ave. was officially added to the list on July 1 by the National Park Service, recognizing it as one of Florida’s oldest and most significant African American churches.
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The city said the designation marks a key milestone in preserving Palatka’s cultural and architectural heritage.
Built between 1883 and 1884, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church served African Americans who settled in Palatka’s Newtown community after the Civil War.
According to the city, the church is an outstanding example of Carpenter Gothic architecture and is among Florida’s oldest African American wooden churches still serving its congregation.
The city acknowledged that the successful nomination of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church was driven by the vision and dedication of Dr. Dianne Taylor, whose passion for preserving the church’s history led the effort to secure national recognition.
Working on behalf of the church, Taylor spent countless hours researching, documenting, and preparing the nomination that ultimately resulted in the church’s listing on the National Register of Historic Places, the city said.
Her work was strengthened by the support of the church congregation, community advocates, the City of Palatka Historic Preservation Board, and the Palatka City Commission, which unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-R-177 endorsing the nomination in December 2025.
Mayor Robbi Correa welcomed the designation, stating:
“The listing of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church on the National Register of Historic Places is a tremendous honor for our community. This designation recognizes not only the architectural beauty of this historic church but also the generations of faith, perseverance, and community leadership it represents. Preserving landmarks like St. Mary’s ensures that Palatka’s history continues to inspire future generations.”
The National Register of Historic Places is the nation’s official list of historic properties worthy of preservation.
Administered by the National Park Service, the program recognizes sites that have made significant contributions to American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture.
The City of Palatka congratulates the congregation of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, the Episcopal Diocese of Florida, Rev. Dr. Jon Davis, Mrs. Dianne Taylor, the Historic Preservation Board, and all whose dedication made this recognition possible.