“A park named Church Triangle? How intriguing!” You might ask. This seemingly simple park holds a story, though perhaps not as grand as some other New York landmarks.
The Church Triangle is a small park. It is located at East 177th Street.
Imagine the Revolutionary War soldiers honored. They thought to be buried at Trinity. Trinity Church has been at the heart of New York City for over 300 years. The first Trinity Church was erected on Wall Street in 1698. It faced west toward the Hudson River.
In 1705 Queen Anne made this land grant permanent. She gave the church 215 acres. Trinity used it over the years to support its mission and ministry. The first Trinity Church building was destroyed during the Revolutionary War in the Great Fire of 1776. The second church opened in 1790.
Trinity Church was the tallest building in the United States for 23 years. Trinity’s parish included a total of eleven different chapels at various times in its 300-plus year history. Trinity has either given away or sold portions of the original land grant from Queen Anne.
Queen Elizabeth visited in 1976. Dr. Robert Parks presented Her Majesty with 279 years of back rent. It was in the form of 279 pepper corns.
Trinity’s Archives has fielded many questions over the years about the Soldiers Monument. It is the large stone monument in the northeast corner of the Churchyard. It was erected in 1852. It is dedicated to the American soldiers who died in British captivity during the Revolutionary War.
Alexander Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton are perhaps Trinity Churchyard’s most notable occupants.
Trinity Church’s charter was granted in 1697 by King William III. It serves as our incorporation document. It lays out how we are to exist as a parish legally and spiritually.
The story of Church Triangle may not be filled with dramatic events. It is a reminder that even small spaces can hold a piece of New York City’s rich history. Take a moment to appreciate this green space. Reflect on the stories it might whisper if you listen closely.