Imagine Grace Church not just as a building but as a living testament to New York City’s ever-evolving story. Grace Church stands proudly at 800-804 Broadway. It anchors the corner of East 10th Street. Broadway bends here bringing it into alignment with Manhattan’s grid.
Grace Church is more than a beautiful structure. It’s a designated National Historic Landmark. It’s lauded for its architectural significance and its place in New York City’s story. The entire complex also holds the status of a New York City landmark.
Initially organized in 1808 at Broadway and Rector Street Grace Church marked its beginning. The church then decided to move uptown with the expanding city population.
In 1843, land was purchased from Henry Brevoort. James Renwick Jr. was commissioned as the architect. At the time, he was only 25 years old. His completed work was limited to the Bowling Green Fountain.
The cornerstone was laid in 1843. Grace Church was consecrated in 1846. Grace Church stands as a French Gothic Revival masterpiece. It is crafted from Sing Sing marble. Vestry minutes reveal expenses from worker costs to altar cloth embroidery.
Originally the spire was wooden. In 1881, it was replaced with a marble spire designed by Renwick. The interior is primarily constructed from lath and plaster.
The east window, a masterpiece by Clayton and Bell dominates the chancel. It is a “Te Deum” window. Its theme is praise. Figures with faces raised toward Christ symbolize prophets apostles and martyrs. Other windows are crafted by Henry Holiday. The reredos displays mosaic figures of the evangelists. It is made of French and Italian Marble and Caen stone.
The lawn features a terra-cotta Roman urn. It dates back to Emperor Nero’s time. For a generation Grace Church was the most fashionable church in New York. To be married or buried within its walls was a mark of distinction.
Grace Church has expanded over the years. The sanctuary was built from 1843 to 1846. The rectory followed from 1846 to 1847. A chantry was added from 1878 to 1879. Grace House was constructed from 1880 to 1881. The front garden was established in 1881. Memorial House appeared from 1881 to 1882. The wooden spire was replaced with a marble one in 1883. The chancel got an extension from 1902 to 1903.
Like Trinity Church Grace Church established chapels elsewhere. The first chapel was built in 1850. It later became the Church of the Incarnation.
Grace Church School organized in 1894. It was the first place for choir boys to get formal training. In 2006, the School became a separate legal entity from the Church.
Grace Church offers prayer and Eucharist services. The church once provided the first day-care center in New York City. Today it continues to provide community outreach programs.
The church boasts a renowned Choir of Men and Boys. Its musical program includes organ recitals. Grace Church remains a vibrant part of New York City. It combines history architecture and community service.