Walking in FiDi, you'll quickly notice that amidst the glass and steel giants of Wall Street, presides Trinity Church. An Episcopal stronghold, this church, active and vibrant since 1697, stands as one of Manhattan's most enduring architectural wonders, its Gothic Revival-style silhouette reminiscent of Notre Dame amidst the soaring skyscrapers.
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Trinity Church has more than a few riveting tales under its steeples. From its charter granted by King William III of England, to its connections with infamous pirate William Kidd, who donated parts of his ship to aid its construction, this church thrives on its intriguing past. Its early congregants boasted names like George Washington and Alexander Hamilton - the latter even resting eternally in Trinity's graveyard.
However, as fascinating as its past may be, the true fascination lies in the story of its resilience. After the Great Fire of 1776 devastated the original structure and subsequent snowstorms deemed the second one unfit, the church that graces the skyline today is the third avatar, its construction initiated in 1839.
But Trinity Church's legacy extends beyond its architectural grandeur and illustrious parishioners. Today, it owns a portfolio worth an astonishing $6 billion, tax-exempt due to its religious status. This portfolio has rendered it one of the largest landowners in NYC.
So, as you carve your NYC itinerary and consider what to do in New York, remember that a walking tour of the Financial District offers more than just the pulse of the world's economy. It's a journey through time, where tales of pirates intersect with power brokers, and centuries-old institutions sit comfortably with modern day commerce.
Many more New York City stories and tours await. Discover more local history with our New York audio walking tours, and see which nearby New York City neighborhoods you want to explore next!
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