Saint Ambrose Cathedral & Rectory

607 High Streets

Land was purchased in 1855 and a frame church was erected in 1856.

The cathedral was completed in 1890-91.

Architect: James J. Egan of Chicago

The adjacent rectory was designed and built in 1927

NRHP 1979

Egan was an Irish immigrant and often designed for Irish congregations.

He is noted for his work with interior spaces unhampered by columns.

Richardsonian Romanesque style with rusticated Bedford Limestone exterior walls

Interior dominated by 50 ft. barrel-vaulted ceiling made of painted plaster

An unusual feature is the 6 stained glass windows located on each side of the nave.  They depict, not biblical scenes, but the development of Catholicism in Iowa.

Note the 15 degree street grid shift that facilitates view of the cathedral.