Plymouth Church is one of New York’s oldest and most significant religious buildings. The church has long been an important site in the historical struggle for racial justice. Contemplate this somber past and the church’s notable architecture during a peaceful visit to the sanctuary.

Step into the history of this simple, redbrick structure. The barn-like appearance of the building and the semi-circular arrangement of the pews in the sanctuary create a spirit of equality. Admire the elegant stained-glass windows. Look closer to notice an unusual detail. Rather than biblical scenes, the windows depict moments in the history of democracy in the early United States.

Sit in Pew 89 and imagine what Abraham Lincoln might have thought about while worshipping here just before he became a presidential candidate.

Fugitive slaves fleeing to Canada could hide in a tunnel underneath the sanctuary, nicknamed the “Grand Central Depot” on the Underground Railroad.

Henry Ward Beecher, the church’s most famous pastor and a major figure in the abolitionist (anti-slavery) movement, was known for fiery appeals to public conscience. Some of Beecher’s methods were rather unorthodox. Consider how it would have felt to be in the audience at one of Beecher’s mock slave auctions, where members of the congregation made bids to purchase the freedom of real enslaved people.

The magnificent pipe organ and cast-iron pillars in the balcony were both state-of-the-art for their time. Stroll through the church’s large gardens, featuring statues of Beecher and Lincoln. Today, the church has a small but active congregation. Peruse designer clothes and housewares at the church’s Underground Thrift Store, where proceeds benefit an anti-trafficking nonprofit organization.

Remember that Plymouth Church is not a museum but an active place of worship. Free public tours are available on Sundays following the regular church service. Call ahead to let tour guides know to expect you. A small donation to support the church is suggested.

Street parking is very limited, so travel to Plymouth Church by subway to the Clark Street Station or High Street. The church is also a short walk from Brooklyn Bridge Park, which connects to Manhattan by ferry.