History and architecture
The Gothic Revival truly began in New York City in 1846 with the advent of two new churches of great significance. One was Richard Upjohn*s new Trinity Church at Wall Street; the other was James Renwick, Jr.'s Grace Church, built of sparkling white Sing Sing marble at 10th Street.
The tower of Grace Church terminates the northward vista looking along Broadway where it changes direction at Tenth Street - a conspicuous and attractive feature with its flamboyant Gothic spire dominating the scene.
This church is not only outstandingly beautiful but, for its day, was one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in this country. The main entrance door on Broadway, located at the base of the tower, is surmounted by an attractive gable above which is the very handsome rose-window.
Rising above the roof level are the high, traceried openings of the belfry, while above these the tower makes an ingenious transition from square to octagon, embellished by pinnacles at the comers to ease the transition.
The walls of the nave consist of fine, pointed arch windows, interspersed by buttresses which in turn are surmounted by pinnacles. A parapet forms the top of the walls behind the tower and is crenellated; similar to those found on Medieval Castles.
The mastery of Gothic architecture by young Renwick, in this early Gothic church, is truly remarkable and must be accounted for by his excellent training as an engineer and that of his father before him. Grace Church, since its beginning on Rector Street, had always been the house of worship chosen by New York's first families and here at Tenth Street it continued that tradition, being one of the most fashionable parishes in New York from the time it was built.
Sources and further reading
This history comes from the Landmarks app’s historical catalog. Names and building uses may reflect the period described.