The Little Church Around the Corner

Provenance

Private collection, Glen Ellyn, Illinois

Sale, Leonard Auction, Addison, Illinois, October 15, 2023, lot 37

Private collection, New York, New York, acquired from above

Note

The Little Church Around the Corner, officially named the Church of the Transfiguration, gained its nickname in 1870 when actor Joseph Jefferson was seeking a location for funeral services for his friend and fellow actor, George Holland. Jefferson spoke with a rector at a nearby church who, after discovering Holland held the unsavory profession of actor, reportedly refused the request, replying, “I believe there is a little church around the corner where it might be done.” The Little Church Around the Corner is located at 29th Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue in New York City and remains active today.