In the heart of Manhattan, amidst the hustle and bustle of 37th Street and Broadway, stands the Church of the Holy Innocents. This isn’t just any church. It’s a survivor, a testament to the ever-changing landscape of New York City. The Church of the Holy Innocents has witnessed the transformation of this neighborhood from a quiet residential area to the vibrant Garment District we know today. Founded in 1866, the parish was carved from sections of several existing parishes, including St. Stephen the Martyr, St. Michael’s, Holy Cross, Cathedral, and St. Columba’s. The first pastor, Father John Larkin, acquired a small frame Episcopal church already on the site. This allowed the newly formed Catholic parish to begin services immediately while plans for a new structure were underway. Interestingly, the name “Holy Innocents” was retained from the Episcopal church. The current Gothic Revival style building, designed by the prolific Patrick Keely, was dedicated in 1870. The cornerstone was laid in a grand ceremony a year earlier, only to be interrupted by a sudden downpour. Inside, the Church of the Holy Innocents boasts a stunning high altar of white marble, topped by a fresco of the Crucifixion. This masterpiece was created by Constantino Brumidi, the same artist who worked on the U.S. Capitol Building. Imagine the same hand bringing such artistry to both a sacred space and the heart of American government. The church’s history is intertwined with the history of the neighborhood. In the late 19th century, the “Tenderloin” district surrounding the church teemed with European immigrants. A parochial school was established alongside the church, staffed by the Sisters of Charity and later the Christian Brothers. As the city expanded northward, the area became a hub for newspaper publishing and theaters, earning Holy Innocents the nickname, “the actor’s church.” The renowned playwright Eugene O’Neill was even baptized here in 1888. By the early 20th century, the neighborhood’s demographics shifted dramatically. Tenements gave way to commercial buildings, dispersing the original congregation. This led to financial difficulties, forcing the church to sell its surrounding properties. The Church of the Holy Innocents has adapted and persevered through these changes. It continues to serve as a regional parish, a place of worship, and a historical landmark in the heart of New York City.
Gould Family Mausoleum
Ever heard of a “Robber Baron?” Here at Woodlawn Cemetery stands the Gould Family Mausoleum. It is a testament to