Discover Tudor City

Known as the "Center for Social Change," the Ford Foundation has been committed to helping the world be a better place since 1936. They work diligently to "protect human rights, reform governments, provide education opportunities and create space for artistic creativity and expression." Without a doubt, one of Manhattan's finest atriums greets visitors. Entering the glass structure from either 42nd or 43rd Street, a world of green awaits. There are trees, plants, a fountain and short paths to wander through. The atrium is a hidden oasis in the middle of the city.

Known as the "Center for Social Change," the Ford Foundation has been committed to helping the world be a better place since 1936. They work diligently to "protect human rights, reform governments, provide education opportunities and create space for artistic creativity and expression." Without a doubt, one of Manhattan's finest atriums greets visitors. Entering the glass structure from either 42nd or 43rd Street, a world of green awaits. There are trees, plants, a fountain and short paths to wander through. The atrium is a hidden oasis in the middle of the city.

The church doors were locked on the day that I stopped by, but I knocked gently and when the door opened, I was warmly welcomed in by Reverend Cornell Edmonds. He shared the harrowing story with me of how Hurricane Sandy struck their church causing devastating damage. Apparently, it was a water tower that fell on the building harming the stained glass windows and the 123-year old organ. The Reverend apologized repeatedly for the restoration that was going on almost a year and a half later. From my perspective, however, the church - designed in 1871 by J. Cleveland Cady, the architect behind the Museum of Natural History and the first Metropolitan Opera House - was resplendent.