A Visit to Lower Manhattan

When I worked in New York City, I never had time to visit lower Manhattan but on a recent trip to have lunch with one of my editors, I decided to go in a little early and explore. My first stop was the Oculus, the new transportation hub built at the World Trade Center. The Oculus was unique and eye-catching. The 9-11 Memorial Museum and pools were just a step outside its walls. Since it was a beautiful day, I strolled around the Memorial pools but didn’t go into the museum. I want to do that on another day when I can revisit those horrible moments. Continuing my walk, I went to St. Paul’s Chapel which is not all that far away and was used by first responders after 9-11. I was fascinated to find out that the only reason the church survived after the Towers came down was because of a big old sycamore that sheltered the church from the debris of the Towers. It wasn’t a big church, but it was filled with the history of the early New York City settlers and 9-11. Heading farther down Broadway, I went to the larger Trinity Church. It’s an imposing Gothic structure in a pinkish stone that at one time was black with soot until a restoration occurred. Inside were beautiful stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings as well as dark woodwork. Burial grounds surround the church and I walked around to check them out. Many of the tombstones were so old that all the lettering was gone. Alexander Hamilton is buried there but unfortunately, that part of the cemetery was closed off when I visited. With a little time to spare, I walked toward the water and ended up on Wall Street and across from the New York Stock Exchange. Had to snap a photo for my hubby who loves all things financial. Finally, it was time to meet my editor for a delightful lunch and after, for the two-hour trek home. All in all, it was a fabulous day. P.S. If you love stories with a touch of New York, check out ONE SUMMER NIGHT, my enemies to lovers contemporary romance. It’s specially priced at 99 cents. Grab your copy at https://amzn.to/4faZhGC