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About Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is a city in New York State, that has little to do with the plantation house of President George Washington. The town was founded in the 1600’s, and was appropriately named for its green mount. One iconic spot in Mount Vernon is Saint Paul’s Church. While Saint Paul’s is no longer an operating parrish, the historical church has become a popular tourist attraction. The church and its carriage house, cemetery, and grounds have been designated as a National Historic Site since 1943; and today, visitors can take guided tours of the church tower, and visit the museum and visitor's center inside of the the old carriage house.

Saint Paul’s Church dates back to its founding parish that was established in 1665, making it one of the oldest parishes in New York State. The original church building was built in 1695, and was a small, simple, square, wooden structure. The church’s name was originally the Church of Eastchester. The historical church building that stands today was built in 1764, and the name of the church was changed to Saint Paul’s in 1975.

Along with the church's historical architectural value, it was the location for several important moments in early American history. In 1733, the church hosted an election for the open seat in the New York assembly. Historians use the election to argue the political atmosphere at this point in colonial history. Some say it helped develop political awareness among New York artisans. Others say that it highlights the ongoing influence of the monarchy in the political attitude of the colonists; and others maintain that it helped establish free press in America. After publishing an article about the election, printer John Peter Zenger was sued for libel. Zenger was acquitted, and this ruling helped set the foundation for the First Amendment’s Freedom of the Press.

Saint Paul’s also served as a hospital for the British Army, after the Battle of Pell’s Point. When the fighting neared the church, General Washington ordered the parishioners to bury the large bell that hung in the tower. The bell was cast in 1758, by the same London foundry that made the Liberty Bell. Washington ordered that the bell be buried, so that the British could not steal it and melt it down into ammunition. The same bell, is still hanging in the bell tower today.

Saint Paul’s Church held its final Sunday service in May of 1977. While the church no longer serves the community as a house of worship; it now serves the community as a historical time capsule. The church tells the story of early America, and the importance of the early church during the colonial time period. Saint Paul’s lives on to tutor its visitors in American history, and the importance of preservation.

Mount Vernon tutors want to see every student reach their academic goals. If your student is struggling in school, a Mount Vernon tutor might be just what you need. Every student deserves the chance to succeed.