"110–130 E 7th St" in Manhattan, New York, is a treasure trove of architectural and historical gems, full of fascinating trivia and hidden facts. Let’s dive in, step by step!
St. Stanislaus Bishop and Martyr Church
- Location: St. Stanislaus Bishop and Martyr Church, located at 104-110 East 7th Street.
- History: Founded in 1872, this is the oldest Polish Roman Catholic church in New York City.
- Architecture: The church boasts a Neo-Gothic style with intricate stained-glass windows imported from Bavaria.
- Trivia: It was originally intended to serve Polish immigrants, and the church still holds masses in Polish today.
The New York Marble Cemetery
- Location: New York Marble Cemetery, at 41 1/2 Second Avenue, accessible from East 7th Street.
- History: Established in 1831, it’s the oldest public non-sectarian cemetery in New York City.
- Architecture: Unlike traditional cemeteries, it features underground vaults made of Tuckahoe marble.
- Trivia: This cemetery has been the resting place for many notable families, including the Delafields and the Lorillards.
The New York City Marble Cemetery
- Location: New York City Marble Cemetery, located at 52-74 East 2nd Street, with access points from East 7th Street.
- History: Founded in 1832, right after its "sibling" cemetery.
- Architecture: It also features underground marble vaults, but with a more open, garden-like layout.
- Trivia: Despite its name, it’s actually a separate entity from the New York Marble Cemetery, often causing confusion.
McSorley's Old Ale House
- Location: McSorley's Old Ale House, at 15 East 7th Street.
- History: Established in 1854, it’s one of the oldest continuously operating bars in New York City.
- Architecture: The bar retains its 19th-century charm with sawdust-covered floors and vintage memorabilia.
- Trivia: It was famously a men-only bar until a court order in 1970 forced it to admit women.
The Fillmore East
- Location: The Fillmore East, at 105 Second Avenue, near East 7th Street.
- History: Opened in 1968, it quickly became a legendary rock venue.
- Architecture: Originally a Yiddish theater, it was converted into a modern concert hall by promoter Bill Graham.
- Trivia: The venue hosted iconic performances by Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and The Grateful Dead before closing in 1971.
The Ukrainian Museum
- Location: The Ukrainian Museum, at 222 East 6th Street, just a block away.
- History: Founded in 1976 to preserve the artistic and cultural heritage of Ukrainian Americans.
- Architecture: The museum's modern design contrasts with the historic neighborhood, featuring sleek lines and contemporary art spaces.
- Trivia: It houses one of the largest collections of Ukrainian folk art outside Ukraine.
The Orpheum Theatre
- Location: The Orpheum Theatre, at 126 Second Avenue, near East 7th Street.
- History: Originally opened in 1904 as a Yiddish theater, it later became famous for off-Broadway productions.
- Architecture: It has maintained much of its original Beaux-Arts façade.
- Trivia: The theater has hosted the long-running show "Stomp" since 1994.
The Anthology Film Archives
- Location: Anthology Film Archives, at 32 Second Avenue, near East 7th Street.
- History: Established in 1970 by avant-garde filmmakers Jonas Mekas, Stan Brakhage, and others.
- Architecture: Housed in a former courthouse, the building was renovated to include screening rooms and an extensive film library.
- Trivia: It serves as a hub for experimental and independent cinema, showcasing rare and obscure films.
The Merchant’s House Museum
- Location: Merchant’s House Museum, at 29 East 4th Street, a short walk from East 7th Street.
- History: Built in 1832, it’s Manhattan’s only 19th-century family home preserved intact both inside and out.
- Architecture: This Federal-style brick townhouse features original furnishings, decorative arts, and personal belongings.
- Trivia: It’s rumored to be one of the most haunted places in New York City.
The Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Protection
- Location: Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Protection, at 59 East 2nd Street, accessible from East 7th Street.
- History: Originally an Episcopal church, it was purchased by the Russian Orthodox community in 1943.
- Architecture: The structure features a unique combination of Gothic Revival and Russian Orthodox architectural elements.
- Trivia: The cathedral’s interior includes stunning iconography and traditional Russian liturgical art.
Each of these landmarks and architectural wonders adds a unique layer to the rich tapestry of East 7th Street in Manhattan. From historic cemeteries to avant-garde film archives, there's a little something for every history buff and architecture enthusiast!