Historic Structures Report, Part II, Architectural Data: Restoration of Hamilton Grange

Bevin, Newton

Alexander Hamilton purchased the first section of ground for his new house in Harlem in 1800. Subsequent purchases, one later in 1800 and another in 1803 extended the land holdings to 35 acres and 3-1/2 roods. On this land the house known as "Hamilton Grange" was erected between 1800 and 1802. The house was designed and built by John McComb with additional contractual work done by Ezra Weeks, a carpenter. In an effort to preserve the Grange it was moved to its present site 100 yards away in 1889 and became a church house for St. Luke's Church which now adjoins it. Although somewhat altered, it has survived with most original features intact which provide evidence of its former design. When Hamilton Grange becomes the property of the National Park Service, it is proposed that the house be moved from its present site to the northwest corner of West 130th Street and St. Nicholas Terrace on the campus of the College of the City of New York. The object of this report is to evaluate the present condition of the exterior and interior fabric, to make recommendations for the safe removal of the frame structure to a new site and to restore those portions which have deteriorated or have been altered. As of this writing, no original drawings or plans have been found. In 1889 the building was moved to its present site and some changes were made. This report includes the results of physical investigations made to determine the original design and thus hopefully to re-establish the building as Alexander Hamilton caused it to be built.

Historic Structures Report, Part II, Architectural Data: Restoration of Hamilton Grange

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