947 Aisquith Street in Baltimore is a genuinely extraordinary historic property featuring a stunning church designed by George A. Frederick in the High Victorian Gothic style with Romanesque Revival elements. Originally built in 1865, this architectural masterpiece is listed on the National Historic Register as St. James the Less Roman Catholic Church. The sanctuary spans over 8,000 square feet, with a large balcony with a potential capacity of more than 600 people. The entire facility is estimated at over 30,000 square feet, including an attached four-story office and school rectory. Courtyard areas on either side of the main hall provide limited off-street parking.
The property boasts remarkable features, such as an original wine cellar, a full commercial kitchen on the lower level, and multiple kitchenettes. Renovated sections of the rectory offer modern conveniences like forced-air air conditioning and gas radiator heat, while the sanctuary retains its original grandeur, including a baptismal pool and murals painted in 1886 by German-born artist William Lamprecht. Additionally, some original stained glass windows from the studios of Josef Mayer remain intact. Notably, 947 Aisquith Street requires some restoration, as parts of the rectory need significant work, and the steeple was damaged in a lightning strike in 2020. A new roof was recently installed, kicking off the property's road to recovery.
This historic gem offers immense redevelopment potential for apartments, schools, senior living, daycare, offices, boarding houses, residential treatment, or community commercial spaces. Located between Orleans Street and East North Avenue, just east of Interstate 83, 947 Aisquith Street presents a rare opportunity to revitalize and contribute to the surrounding residential community. The property is being sold as-is, with the possibility of seller financing for buyers with good credit.