Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
12. Chelsea
Located in Manhattan, Chelsea first got its start when a retired British Major named Thomas
Clarke purchased 94 acres 25 years before the American Revolution. It was named in honor
of a veteran's hospital and old soldier's home in his native England. Major Clarke built his
mansion, London Terrace, on top of a hill which overlooked the Hudson river where it re-
mains to this day.
Visitors here can see the landmark Chelsea Hotel, which was originally constructed as a
private apartment co-op from 1883 to 1885. In 1905 it reopened as a hotel and over the
years many notable people have stayed here, including names like Janis Joplin, Iggy Pop,
Bob Dylan and Allen Ginsberg. The topic 2001: A Space Odyssey was written by Arthur
C. Clarke while he stayed at The Chelsea. The twelve story building offers guests balconies
with intricate wrought iron designs in a building that has been added to the U.S. National
Register of Historic Places.
