Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, was born in a brownstone at 28 East 20th Street in 1858. His birthplace, now a National Historic Site, offers a glimpse into his early life. Roosevelt's family moved uptown to 57th Street, reflecting the area's transformation from rural to urban.
Andrew Carnegie, the steel magnate, constructed his mansion at 2 East 91st Street in 1903. The building, now the Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, is a testament to his wealth and philanthropy. Carnegie's home was one of the first to have a private Otis elevator and central heating.
John D. Rockefeller, the oil tycoon, lived in a mansion on 54th Street and 5th Avenue. His influence extended to the construction of Rockefeller Center and the establishment of the Rockefeller University. His philanthropic efforts also led to the creation of the Museum of Modern Art, located on 53rd Street.
Herman Melville, the famous author of "Moby-Dick," lived at 104 East 26th Street. Although not as affluent as some of his contemporaries, Melville's presence adds literary significance to the Upper East Side. His residence is now a private home, marked by a plaque.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the former First Lady, lived at 1040 Fifth Avenue. Known for her elegance and grace, she became a symbol of American culture. The building remains one of the most prestigious addresses in the city.
Woody Allen, the filmmaker, has lived on the Upper East Side for most of his life. His films often feature the neighborhood, capturing its unique charm and sophistication. Allen's residence is a classic example of the area's appeal to artists and intellectuals.
Madonna, the pop icon, purchased a townhouse at 152 East 81st Street in 2009. Her presence adds a modern celebrity touch to the historical narrative of the Upper East Side. The townhouse, built in 1901, reflects the enduring appeal of the neighborhood's architecture.
Greta Garbo, the legendary actress, lived at 450 East 52nd Street for many years. Her reclusive lifestyle and iconic status add a layer of mystique to the Upper East Side. Garbo's apartment remains a point of interest for fans and historians alike.
Henry Clay Frick built his mansion at 1 East 70th Street, which now houses the Frick Collection. The museum showcases his extensive art collection, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Frick's home is a prime example of Gilded Age opulence.
Edith Wharton, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author, lived at 14 West 23rd Street. Her novels, such as "The Age of Innocence," provide a glimpse into the lives of the elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Wharton's home is now part of a commercial building, marked by a plaque.
The Upper East Side's historical figures have left an indelible mark on the neighborhood, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. From presidents and tycoons to artists and authors, their stories continue to shape the area's legacy.