Exploring Murray Hill’s Historic Treasures: A Two-Day Walking Tour

The Murray Hill Neighborhood Association hosted an enriching two-day walking tour, meticulously organized by the Preservation & Design Committee and generously sponsored by Bartow Insurance and Villa Berulia. Led by longtime member Robin Garr, the tour showcased the neighborhood’s 14 designated landmarks and two historic districts, offering participants an immersive journey into Murray Hill’s architectural and cultural heritage.

Participants of the tour were captivated by the detailed narratives and historical contexts provided by Robin Garr, deepening their appreciation for Murray Hill’s unique character.

Historic Districts Featured on the Tour

1. Murray Hill Historic District – Established in 2002 and expanded in 2004, this district encompasses 88 buildings primarily constructed between 1853 and the 1920s. It features elegant Italianate and Second Empire-style row houses, reflecting Murray Hill’s evolution into a prestigious residential enclave.
2. Sniffen Court Historic District – One of New York City’s smallest historic districts, Sniffen Court is a charming me mews featuring ten two-story brick stables built in 1863–1864. Designed in the early Romanesque Revival style, these stables have since been transformed into private residences, artist studios, and The Amateur Comedy Club.

Landmarks Explored During the Tour

• The Morgan Library & Museum (225 Madison Avenue) – Originally the private library of J.P. Morgan, this stunning Renaissance Revival building holds an extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artworks.
• The J.P. Morgan Jr. House (231 Madison Avenue) – The historic residence of J.P. Morgan, attached to the Morgan Library & Museum, reflecting Gilded Age elegance.
• Setback Federal House (152 East 38th Street) – A rare surviving Federal-style townhouse distinguished by its deep setback from the street.

• Joseph Raphael De Lamar House (233 Madison Avenue) – A Beaux-Arts mansion, designed by C.P.H. Gilbert and built between 1902–1905. It now houses the Consulate General of Poland.
• Church of the Incarnation (209 Madison Avenue) – A stunning Gothic Revival church, designed by Emlen T. Littell, featuring Tiffany stained-glass windows and exquisite woodwork.
• James F.D. and Harriet Lanier House (123 East 35th Street) – A French Renaissance Revival mansion, one of the most elaborate private residences in the neighborhood.

• Thomas and Fanny Clarke House (22 East 35 Street) – An Italianate row house, known for its preserved 19th-century interior details.
• Adelaide Douglas House (57 Park Avenue) – A Romanesque Revival brownstone, significant for its intricate stonework and striking façade and is now the Consulate of Guatemala.

• George S. Bowdoin Stable (149 East 38th Street) – Originally a private carriage house, later converted into a stylish residence and is now home to Henry George School of Social Science.
• Jonathan Allen Stable (148 East 40th Street) – A late 19th-century stable and is now home to Maison Rouge NYC.

• The Robb House (23 Park Avenue) – A distinguished Beaux-Arts townhouse, formerly owned by James Hampden Robb, a prominent politician and businessman.
• Burrill House (36 East 38th Street) – A Gilded Age mansion, known for its opulent interior and grand architectural style.

• Allerton 39th Street House (145 East 39th Street) – A landmark residential hotel, originally built in 1916 for young professionals, reflecting early 20th-century urban housing trends and is now home to POD 39 Hotel.
• The Union League Club (38 East 37th Street) – A distinguished private social club, founded in 1863, known for its historic library and patriotic mission.

For more information about the Preservation & Design Committee and their initiatives, visit:
➡ Murray Hill Preservation & Design Committee  or for information on future weekend tours, group tours, and private, custom, or special occasion tours, contact preservation@murrayhillnyc.org.