The Saint Severin Old Log Church in Clearfield County is a well-preserved example of mid-19th century “frontier” architecture.
Projecting an image that is both holy yet austere, Saint Severin is an interesting trip back in time and well worth a visit.
Saint Severin Old Log Church FAQs
5 miles north of the Kylertown exit of Interstate 80, along Route 53.
Yes – use GPS coordinates 41.03181, -78.11044.
1851.
24 feet wide, 45 feet deep.
Severin Nebel, who donated the land the church was built on.
He in turn was named after the Roman Catholic Saint Severin of Bordeaux.
It is one of the few surviving log churches that has a cupola/steeple.
1975
Around 1880, when a larger church was built nearby.
Visiting the Saint Severin Old Log Church
The Saint Severin Old Log Church is open to visitors, and there is a lockbox for donations to offset maintainence costs located behind the last row of pews.
The altar is one of the most unique I’ve personally encountered in an old church.
There’s also a balcony at the top of a narrow staircase.
Final Thoughts
The German Catholic immigrants that settled this area (known as Cooper Settlement) had a close connection to the Earth and their religion, and this log structure symbolizes both.
At 175 years old, the Saint Severin Old Log Church in Clearfield County is still a shining example of frontier spirit and architecture, a humble structure that was the heart of an immigrant community in mid-19th century Pennsylvania.
Related Attraction
Decker’s Chapel in Elk County is the smallest church in Pennsylvania, and one of the smallest churches in the entire United States!
The 1806 Old Log Church in Bedford County is another fine example of a 19th century Pennsylvania log church, located right along the historic Lincoln Highway.
The Middle Ridge UMC Church outside Wellsboro, AKA “The Little Red Church”, is a beautiful house of worship built in 1897 and still in use in Tioga County.
Nearby Attractions
12 Must-See Attractions in Clearfield County showcases more remarkable sights and experiences near Saint Severin Old Log Church.
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