Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue /

This complete history chronicles the past struggles of Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue (New York City) in the hopes of helping it move surefootedly into the future. Wright, a historiographer of the Episcopal Church, has drawn upon original research and previous sources (e.g., an unpublished manuscript by E. Clowes Chorley, his "distant predecessor") to give insight into the changes Saint Thomas has undergone in its 175-year history. Proceeding through the church's establishment in rural New York City to its fourth and present incarnation, the volume is more concerned with the building program, fund-raising, the selling of pews, and the rectors than the church's place in America's ever-changing social climate. Significant people, fires, and distinguishing statuary are described in detail, providing an accurate reflection of the church. Appendixes covers the music program, heraldry, and personnel. Because of its limited coverage, this is recommended for larger academic libraries and Episcopal followers. Leo Kriz, West Des Moines P.L., IA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.