The Little Church Around the Corner

This neo-gothic church was designed in the style of an English country parish, complete with a lovely, spacious garden. At the time of its construction it was on the outskirts of New York City, in a comparatively rural area. Under the leadership of Rev. George Hendric Houghton, it became a principal stop on the Underground Railroad. In 1863, the church provided sanctuary to African-Americans fleeing the violence of the Civil War draft riots.

Legend has it that the unusual nickname comes from 1870, when the stage actor Joseph Jefferson, famous for his portrayal of Rip Van Winkle, sought to bury his friend and fellow actor, George Holland. Approaching the priest of a neighboring church, Jefferson was turned away. During the 19th century, acting as a profession was somewhat frowned upon, hence the priest’s refusal to bury Holland. The disapproving priest suggested that, “there is a little church around the corner where it might be done.” According to the legend of the church, Jefferson is thought to have replied, “Then I say to you sir, God bless the little church around the corner.”