Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel 1913

343 Via Mt. Carmel, Yo., OH 44505

https://olmcsta.com/

• Founded as an Italian ethnic parish to serve Italian immigrant families of Central Youngstown, particularly those living near the present-day church site at 343 Via Mount Carmel (formerly Summit Avenue).

• Designed in a Roman architectural style, the basilica features a prominent steeple bell imported from Italy, modeled after bells traditionally used in Italian villages.

• On June 12, 1923, a destructive fire severely damaged the church. The Youngstown Vindicator reported that the blaze was most likely set by the Ku Klux Klan, reflecting anti-immigrant and anti-Catholic hostility of the era.

• The fire destroyed stained-glass windows, statues, altars, furnishings, and a Holkamp Pipe Organ partially funded by Andrew Carnegie and parishioners.

• In 1979, the church building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its association with European immigration and its architecture.

• In 2012, the two historically Italian churches in Youngstown became one parish, under the name Our Lady of Mount Carmel – St. Anthony of Padua Parish.

• In 2014, Pope Francis designated Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church a minor basilica. The designation placed it in an elevated status of dignity and honor and granted the privilege of creating a coat of arms that incorporates his own.  

• Today, the basilica remains a major pillar of the community and continues to celebrate its heritage through multiple events, the monthly Spaghetti Dinners, community outreach programs and the annual Mount Carmel Italian Festival.

• Sources: Parish Website; Youngstown Vindicator