The archival photo at top is a turn of the last century postcard showing the view of the original YMCA building that use to stand close to the corner of Fifth Avenue that we haven't seen before (click image to enlarge). As discussed previously, this original branch did not survive past the end of the 1920's and boxer Joe Louis eventually had a restaurant on that particular lot back in the 1940's:
LINK. As for the row of brownstones, it is unclear if they survived past the depression years but the building just a bit further down are still there today (but without the intricate ornamentation at the roof line). As for the open parcel of land, a hotel had been planned for that site but has since stalled in the past couple of years. Current construction signs still have 2012 as the completion date for the project but there hasn't been much progress as of recent.
At least we got the sidewalk back...
ReplyDeleteWith things turning around as of late, perhaps something will get built.
ReplyDeleteToday's photo of YMCA at 155th St. you think was on Church of the Intercession property. I think you are incorrect. I attended years ago when it was Chapel of the Intercession...your comment would place the YMCA in the graveyard & that part of the graveyard goes back to early 1800s. The building to the right of the YMCA in photo reminds me of the Presbyterian church across the street on the north side of 155th St.
ReplyDeleteFrom what info I've discovered in my family, my mom's father Harvey was janitor of those 3 buildings (17, 21, 23 West 125th St) nearest to 5th Avenue between 1916 and 1920 or so. His employers were "Schaefer Co., 21, 23 West 125th St." I give this info for historic value only.
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