After Seneca Village: Yorkville and the Transformations of New York City

In 1825, a small group of Black New Yorkers purchased land and founded Seneca Village, an intentional activist community in upper Manhattan built on the ideals of their shared social, political, and religious organizations. For three decades the neighborhood grew to include multiple schools, churches, and cemeteries. Many established lives that redefined the meaning of freedom —owning their homes, supporting organizations, voting, tending gardens, and establishing businesses. The community thrived and eventually became home to immigrants from Ireland and Germany. In the 1850s, however, New York City began to displace the residents, seize their land, and destroy their homes to make way for the construction of Central Park. With their settlement razed, residents scattered and researchers have been unable to locate most of them after Seneca Village. Until now.

This event is part of 1014: Past and Future, a weekend of architecture, culture and community. For more information about free upcoming tours and lectures, please visit the website above.

Accessibility Statement:

Unfortunately, 1014 Fifth Avenue needs to be refurbished and is not fully accessible in its current stage. We apologize to our guests and kindly ask you to contact [email protected] if you need further information or assistance. We will do our best to enable everyone to join us.

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For everyone’s health and safety, proof of COVID-19 vaccination (age 12+) -- either in digital or hard-copy form -- and masks (age 2+) are required for all visitors to 1014 5th Avenue. Hand sanitizer will be offered upon arrival.

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