Before you stands Saint Ann & the Holy Trinity Church a magnificent edifice on Brooklyn Heights. Its history stretches back far beyond its imposing brownstone exterior.
This isn’t just any church. It’s a testament to Brooklyn’s enduring faith and architectural prowess. Initially built in 1844 as the Church of the Holy Trinity it was the vision of Edgar Bartow a local paper manufacturer. Bartow desired a stunning church for Brooklyn complete with free pews. He chose the prominent architect Minard LaFever a master of Gothic Revival style. The result was a breathtaking building featuring a vaulted roof and exquisite stained glass. The church officially opened in 1847 although construction wasn’t entirely finished.
A remarkable detail is its once towering 275-foot spire. This spire completed in 1869 was a prominent Brooklyn landmark. Ship captains even used it and the spire of Trinity Church Wall Street for navigation. Sadly the spire was removed in 1906 due to concerns about falling stones and costly maintenance.
The church’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior. The nave stretches 145 feet long and 42 feet wide. The intricate fan-vaulted ceiling soars 63 feet high. The current altar pulpit and chancel features are from an 1899 renovation.
The Cold War era brought a period of internal conflict. Accusations against the assistant rector and disagreements with diocesan authorities eventually led to the church’s closure in 1957. For over a decade the magnificent building stood vacant.
But Saint Ann’s story didn’t end there. In 1969 nearby Saint Ann’s Church the oldest Episcopal congregation in Brooklyn relocated here. It had sold its original property. This move gave new life to the Holy Trinity building. Saint Ann’s embraced its heritage adopting the name Saint Ann & the Holy Trinity.
Today parishioners continue a rich legacy. Their faith has spanned over 240 years dating back to the American Revolution. The congregation initially met in a home before moving to a barn. They formally organized in 1787 ultimately establishing Saint Ann’s Church in 1795 named for their benefactress Ann Sands. Even the Brooklyn Bridge’s construction influenced Saint Ann’s. The church moved to its present location in Brooklyn Heights when its original property was needed. Its legacy as a pro-cathedral of the Diocese of Long Island also adds to its significance.
Saint Ann & the Holy Trinity stands as a living monument to faith perseverance and architectural beauty. It’s a story woven into the very fabric of Brooklyn. A story we’ve just begun to unravel.