Trinity Church's presence on Governors Island dates from the
middle of the 19th century. The historic church on Broadway at the foot
of Wall Street is also the owner of the Chapel of St. Cornelius, the
Island's only privately-held real estate.
Trinity Church has been involved in charitable activities since
shortly after its foundation in 1697. One of its first major charitable
projects, the Charity School, provided basic education to impoverished
children. Continuing this tradition of giving, Trinity has sponsored a
variety of charitable programs throughout the city, the state, the
nation and the world.
Its involvement with the Island began in 1846 after the Rev. John
McVickar was appointed chaplain for the Army servicemen and their
families on the Island. There was no permanent structure for religious
services until the Rev. McVickar convinced members of the church to
sponsor the construction of a chapel. The original wooden chapel opened
in 1847. Trinity's presence solidified in 1868 when the chapel became
part of Trinity Parish.
By the beginning of the 20th century, the chapel was in such
disrepair that Trinity deemed it unsalvageable. In 1905, the Army
accepted Trinity's offer to rebuild the Chapel. The current structure
was designed by Charles C. Haight in 14th century English Gothic style.
Until recently it housed historically significant battle flags and
other symbolic relics.
Trinity's web site, www.TrinityWallStreet.org, is a premier
resource for faith formation, with weekly online telecasts of concerts,
liturgy, and special events.
http://www.governorsislandalliance.org/pdf/OnlineOffshorevol2_5.pdf