St. Paul’s Chapel is an Episcopal church at 209 Broadway in Lower Manhattan, between Fulton and Vesey Streets. Built in 1766 for the growing congregation of nearby Trinity Church, it is the oldest surviving church building in Manhattan. Its late Georgian architecture and quiet cemetery offer a change of pace beside the modern World Trade Center area. Inside, look for objects connected with the chapel’s work after 9/11, including a priest’s stole covered with patches from fire departments. Friday afternoons after 2 PM can bring organ music.
A chapel built for a growing city
St. Paul’s Chapel opened in 1766 as an extension of the Trinity Church parish. At the time, Manhattan’s settled area had not yet expanded far north from the island’s southern tip, and the chapel gave parishioners living farther away a closer place to worship. It was built on Broadway, between Fulton and Vesey Streets, at a distance from its mother church.
The chapel is the oldest surviving church building in Manhattan and one of the city’s oldest surviving public buildings. When it was built, it was the tallest structure in New York City. Its late Georgian design is still visible in the building’s form and details. The steeple was added in 1794 and holds two bells; the first was made in England in 1797.
George Washington and the early republic
George Washington worshipped at St. Paul’s Chapel on April 30, 1789, the day he was inaugurated as the first president of the United States. He continued to attend services during the two years New York City served as the national capital. A pew associated with Washington connects the chapel’s role as an active place of worship with the city’s early national history.
The building’s location also reflects how New York grew. When the chapel opened, it stood north of the main settlement; today it sits in Lower Manhattan, among much taller buildings. Its brick-and-stone presence offers a clear contrast with the surrounding modern city.
The Great Fire and 9/11
St. Paul’s Chapel survived the Great Fire of 1776, which destroyed Trinity Church. People formed a chain to carry water from the Hudson River and extinguish the flames at the chapel. The building also survived the attacks of September 11, 2001, without damage. In the aftermath, it became a place of support for recovery workers, who received care there around the clock.
Inside, look for objects that recall this response, including a priest’s stole bearing patches from fire departments around the world. The chapel remains part of Trinity Church parish and continues to serve as a place of worship, music and community outreach.
The chapel grounds
A cemetery adjoins the chapel, adding a quiet outdoor space to a visit. Its paved paths are suitable for a reflective walk. Treat the grounds with care and keep the atmosphere quiet, as this is a place of worship and remembrance.
Visitors can appreciate the chapel’s architecture from ground level; the upper level is not open to the public. The building is wheelchair accessible at the entrance, and an accessible restroom is listed among its amenities. For a chance to hear organ music, Friday afternoons after 2 PM are a useful time to visit, though performances are not guaranteed.
Häufige Fragen
Where is St. Paul’s Chapel?
It is at 209 Broadway in Lower Manhattan, between Fulton and Vesey Streets, near the World Trade Center memorial area.
How old is St. Paul’s Chapel?
The chapel was built in 1766. It is the oldest surviving church building in Manhattan.
Can you hear organ music at St. Paul’s Chapel?
There may be organ music on Friday afternoons after 2 PM. The performances are not guaranteed.
Can visitors go upstairs in the chapel?
No. Visitors can explore the building and its architecture from ground level.
