"Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception (Peoria, Illinois)"

Chicago architect Casper Mehler designed the present cathedral to reflect the style of St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City. The cornerstone was laid on June 28, 1885. Construction on the   Gothic Revival cathedral was completed in 1889. The exterior is composed of Anamosa Limestone and the twin spires on the main façade rise to a height of 230 feet.  The painting of the Crucifix on the reredos behind the altar was painted in 1873 by the Spanish artist Yzquierda. It was purchased by Bishop Spalding and originally hung in the old cathedral. It and a bell in the south tower are all that remain of Old St. Mary's, which was taken down in 1898.   The present pipe organ, Wicks Organ Company, Opus 1503, was installed in 1936. It features 3,329 pipes.