Emmanuel was the first Catholic Church established in Dayton, Ohio, in 1837. In the early years, Emmanuel was predominantly a German territorial parish, founded by Fr. Emmanuel Thienpont. The first church was built in 1837; the second, and current, church building was built in 1871 and is one of the largest in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati: 166 feet by 84 feet, with a ceiling height of 65 feet.

In 1869, Fr. John Hahne formulated plans for a new church building due to the deteriorating condition of the old church, which stood on the site of the present rectory. Leon Beaver, a Dayton architect, drew plans for a German Gothic structure with no supporting pillars on the side aisles, lending to an unobstructed view of the altar. Also in the plans were two balconies, one for the choir and organ and the other for the school children.

The first foundation stone was laid on September 8, 1871. Andrew Kinninger and Frederick Lampert built the structure of soft brick, trimmed in Dayton limestone. The dedication of the completed church building occurred on October 5, 1873, by Bishop Borgess of Detroit and was attended by nearly 10,000 people. The final cost for the new church was $93,000.

The church has experienced many historical moments. In 1912 a cement stucco rock face was put over the church; however, all limestone trim was left in its natural state. In 1913 the church survived the Great Flood, during which the floodwaters reached the height of the windowsills inside the church. In 1920 a windstorm blew down the 150-foot rear spire. The Church originally had twin spires, 212 feet in height, with 8 clocks facing all directions. These spires were removed in 1956 due to wind damage.  

The Emmanuel window over the main altar honors the Blessed Sacrament with angels in adoration. The other 14 stained glass windows, 6 feet by 40 feet, depict the life of Christ. The Stations of the Cross, polished bronze and marble altar railing, aisle floors, and two great chandeliers date from the 1895 to 1897 redecoration.

From 1837 to 1956, Emmanuel was staffed by Diocesan Priests. The Marianist Order staffed the church from 1956 to July 2011.  In July 2011 the Marianists turned over control to the Precious Blood priests and brothers, who continue to maintain the church’s day-to-day operations. May God bless the staff, who can be proud of their strong heritage; the parishioners; and all who come to worship in Emmanuel Church.