This photo was taken Sunday, September 9, 2001 at 8:56 am.
St. Paul's Chapel (on Broadway, between Vessey & Fulton Streets) is in the foreground. Behind it, World Trade Center - Tower One.
St. Paul's was built in 1766. The steeple and spire were added in 1796. It is the only surviving church in New York of the Revolutionary era. It is also the oldest public building in continuous use in Manhattan.
George Washington worshipped here after his inauguration in 1789. When he died (1799), his memorial service was held here.
The original painting of The Great Seal of the United States hangs in St. Paul's Chapel.
St. Paul's played a large role during the revolutionary period because Trinity Church (which oversees St. Paul's) was burned during the New York fire of 1776.
The scene Sunday morning was a sight filled with compelling contrasts and juxtapositions - both visual and intellectual. The picture asked to be taken. Two days later it became a memory.
We visited the WTC buildings often to work with our clients and friends. Some of them are memories, too.