| The
cornerstone for this heritage building was laid in 1877 with the building being
completed two years later. The competition for the design was won by Mr. M.B.
Beebee of Buffalo, who was influenced by the well-known architect, H.H. Richardson
of Boston, Mass. Hence the style of St. Thomas' is described as Richardson Romanesque.
During
the first half of the twentieth century, stained glass windows were installed
throughout the nave and chancel, including a rose window based on the 150th Psalm
depicting Christ the King. In recent years, many striking renovations and improvements
to the exterior and interior of the church have taken place.
In 1985 the turrets and bartizans were restored, and about fifteen years later,
a new slate roof along with extensive decorative copper work, were installed.
In 1990, the interior of the church was radically renovated, pews were removed
and replaced by chairs to permit greater variety in worship in addition to mounting
religious drama as well as sacred concerts, and the furnishings were made entirely
flexible to facilitate greater variety in worship. A
circular ramp from street to church level was created and a striking new entrance
was opened up complete with glass doors which in turn provides a radically new
appearance to the church which fronts Ontario Street. Additionally, the church
was made accessible from the rear by an elevator. | 
