LP-2658
Jacob Day Residence – 50 West 13th Street
ITEM PROPOSED FOR PUBLIC HEARING
A three-story Greek Revival style row house built in 1845 which from 1859 to 1884 was the home and business of the prominent African American abolitionist and businessman Jacob Day.
As the citywide advocate for New York’s architectural, historical and cultural neighborhoods, The Historic Districts Council supports the designation of Jacob Day Residence at 50 West 13th Street as an Individual Landmark.
Built circa 1845, this building served as a home and business headquarters for the Black abolitionist and entrepreneur Jacob Day, who lived and worked here from 1858 to 1884, while members of his family remained in residence until 1896. Additionally, Day rented rooms in the building to other prominent Black New Yorkers including the educator, abolitionist and suffragist, Sarah J. S. Tompkins Garnet.
In 1959, the building was remodeled to house a theater. From 1973-2020 the theater was home to the 13th Street Repertory Company, one of New York’s oldest “Off-Off Broadway” venues.
HDC applauds the four-year effort advocates undertook to bring this building to the attention of the LPC, and we are proud to have written a letter of support to LPC on behalf of this designation.
We are glad to reiterate that support today, and we look forward to seeing a restoration that reflects this building’s meaningful and varied history.