Grace Episcopal Church - Orange, NJ

This church was originally constructed in 1857, making it among the oldest in the city. Various wings / additions were added and demolished over the years, but fortunately for us (and future generations) the main building remains relatively unchanged.

The original photograph dates back to the winter of 1905. The horses and carriages were for a wedding party. The large building in the background of the "then" picture was the Orange YMCA, which has since been razed and replaced with the current building.

Today, it's known as the Church of the Epiphany.

The "now" photo was taken in March of 2007.

Central Presbyterian Church - Orange, NJ

Constructed in 1869, Central Presbyterian Church at 70 Main Street has been serving Orange's faithful for 140 years. It is known today as First Fellowship Cathedral.

Unfortunately the original photograph did not come with a specific date, but was most likely shot sometime between 1895 and 1910.

The "now" photograph was taken in May of 2007.

All Saints Church - Orange, NJ

In 1876, a mission of St. Mark's Church was started in an old schoolhouse at the corner of Valley Road and Forest Street. In 1885, the name was officially changed to All Saints (Episcopal) Church. Eventually, the parish purchased land and constructed the church we see today. It was dedicated on April 24, 1887, and serves its congregation today under the same name.

The original photo was unfortunately undated, but due to the lack of cars on the street I'd venture to guess it was snapped sometime between 1900 and 1910.

The "now" photo was taken in 2007.

Then & Now - The first of many

So, I've decided to start a blog for my "Then vs. Now" photo compilations. So far, the vast majority (as in like, 100%) of these photo comparisons are of scenes in Orange, NJ or Washington, DC... Coincidentally, these are also the last two places I've called home over the past few years. Imagine that.

Hopefully someone out there will appreciate these... or at least admire them from a historical perspective.

Enjoy!