21 State Street (Former St Stephen Church)
Historic Stone Church with parking lot and river views
Marketing description
Own a piece of Pennsylvania history with this landmark historic former St. Stephens Church. This early 20th century former church blends Mission-style, Gothic Revival, and Romanesque architectural motifs creating a unique and impressive facade. Designed by renowned architect William P. Ginther it was built in 1906 of Berea stone and dedicated in December 1907. Occupying a prominent corner lot in the heart of Oil City, this architectural gem features soaring vaulted ceilings, original stained glass, and serene river views. The church is 125 feet in depth with a width of 61 feet and the trancept is 70 feet wide. The expansive interior offers immense potential for adaptive reuse, complemented by a large private parking lot and a full basement equipped with a banquet room and a commercial kitchen. While the building requires renovation and attention, it boasts an original slate roof and a newer boiler system, providing a solid foundation for restoration. The large lot provides ample off-street parking and the building is across the bridge from a future hotel site. Lots of outdoor opportunities available in the area. Oil Creek State Park and Allegheny National Forest are nearby, the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail runs through town for cycling enthusiasts, and the local waterways (Allegheny River, Oil Creek) provide recreational opportunities from water skiing and kayaking to swimming and fishing. Whether you envision a unique residential conversion, wedding venue, or a vibrant community hub, this is a rare opportunity to re-envision a historic treasure and contribute to the revitalization of Oil City. The sacred objects will be removed prior to the sale, and there is a deed restriction prohibiting a sale for "sordid or profane use." Save this church!
Investment highlights
FOR SALE: SAINT STEPHEN’S LANDMARK
21 State St, Oil City, PA | A William P. Ginther Masterpiece
The Opportunity: A 1906 Mission-style stone cathedral on a commanding corner lot, offering breathtaking river views and soaring architectural volume. This isn’t just a building; it’s a canvas for Oil City’s next unique destination.
PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS
- Architectural Pedigree: Designed by master architect William P. Ginther; features soaring vaulted ceilings and original stained glass.
- Turn-Key Infrastructure: Equipped with a newer boiler system and a durable original slate roof
- Massive Footprint: Full basement with a large commercial kitchen and banquet hall—ready for hospitality, events, or restaurant use.
- Unrivaled Parking: Large private onsite parking lot—a rare and critical asset for high-density redevelopment.
THE 2026 "VISIONARY" FINANCIAL PACKAGE
REDUCE YOUR CAPITAL OUTLAY AND OPERATING COSTS THROUGH THESE EXCLUSIVE INCENTIVES:
Federal Historic Tax Credit: 20% Income Tax Credit on all qualified rehabilitation expenses.
PA State Historic Tax Credit: Up to 25% additional Tax Credit (awardable up to $500k/year) for income-producing restorations.
LERTA Tax Abatement 10-Year graduated property tax abatement on all new improvements to the structure.
Keystone Preservation Grant: Competitive matching grants up to $100,000 for construction and restoration.
Oil Region Enterprise Zone:Access to low-interest revolving loans for commercial and industrial start-ups.
Recent Article: Funding Availability and Usage
POTENTIAL RE-IMAGINED USES
- Hospitality: A "Cathedral Hotel" or Boutique Inn.
- Culinary: Destination Brewery, Distillery, Restaurant or Event Venue.
- Creative: Artist Lofts, Co-working Hub, or Performing Arts Space.
- Community: Indoor Recreation Center or Wellness Spa.
"The community is ready. The architecture is timeless. The incentives are unprecedented. What is your vision?"
Listing Contacts
Valuation Calculator
Valuation Metrics
Map
Broker Selected Comps View More Comps
Property History
Similar Properties
Is there information that looks off?
