Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hamilton Heights Historic District
Oncepartofthecountryestatesofthewealthy,likeAlexanderHamiltonwhose1802
home, Hamilton Grange, is here, this location on a hill above Harlem became de-
sirable in the 1880s when an elevated rail line was built. Fine residences went up
between 1886 and 1906, and in the 1920s and 30s they attracted Harlem's elite,
when the area was dubbed Sugar Hill. Chief Justice Thurgood Marshall and musi-
cians Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Cab Calloway were among those who lived
here.
• West 141 St to West 145th St
St. Nicholas Historic District (Strivers' Row)
These fine houses, originally known as the King Model Houses, went up in 1891
whenHarlemwasaneighborhoodforthegentry.Threearchitects,includingMcKim,
Mead,andWhite,managedtoblendRenaissance,Georgian,andVictorianstylesand
create a harmonious whole. Successful African-Americans moved here in the 1920s
and 30s, giving rise to the nickname Strivers' Row.
• 202-250 West 138th St, between Powell & Frederick Douglass Blvds
Abyssinian Baptist Church
One of the oldest and most influential African-American churches in the U.S. was
organized in 1808 by a group protesting segregation within the Baptist church. The
congregation became politically active (starting in 1908) under such leaders as con-
gressman Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Today the church is widely attended by many
who come to hear the gospel choir.
• 132 West 138th St, at Powell Blvd
• Sunday services 9am & 11am
