Google Earth image of 227 Duffield Street
Updated 8/19/2019 with news of the proposed basement-level museum.
While Downtown Brooklyn is planning to welcome a memorial commemorating the neighborhood’s role in abolitionist history, the same respect has not been afforded to 227 Duffield Street, a 19th-century house across the street from the prospective site site. The two-story townhouse was once owned by abolitionists Thomas and Harriet Truesdell, and an underground tunnel between it and another historic house on the block makes many believe that it was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Nevertheless, demolition permits were filed in June, and plans were recently filed for a new 13-story building on the site. Gothamist notes that an intervention from the Landmarks Preservation Commission (“Landmarks”) may be all that saves the historic home from certain destruction.
While Downtown Brooklyn is planning to welcome a memorial commemorating the neighborhood’s role in abolitionist history, the same respect has not been afforded to 227 Duffield Street, a 19th-century house across the street from the prospective site site. The two-story townhouse was once owned by abolitionists Thomas and Harriet Truesdell, and an underground tunnel between it and another historic house on the block makes many believe that it was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Nevertheless, demolition permits were filed in June, and plans were recently filed for a new 13-story building on the site. Gothamist notes that an intervention from the Landmarks Preservation Commission (“Landmarks”) may be all that saves the historic home from certain destruction.
The plans were filed by owner and developer Samiel Hanasab, whom 6sqft notes has a history of demolishing notable Brooklyn buildings. The plan calls for over 1,300 square feet of grade-level retail space and 21 apartments with an average measurement of over 900 square feet. The relatively large size and plans for two units per floor are highly indicative of condos, and intended amenities include elevator, attended parking, and storage. Mr. Hanasab has also consented to putting in a basement-level African American museum, as per an agreement with the property's previous owner. ARC Architecture + Design is listed as the architect of record.
The house is in a section of Downtown Brooklyn that has been especially rich in development in recent years. It is just around the block from jaw-dropping condominiums 11 Hoyt and Brooklyn Point. Further down the street, a proposal was revealed earlier this summer for a 942-foot-tall tower at 625 Fulton Street that would be the second tallest in Brooklyn if approved.
"227 Duffield Street was once a stop on the Underground Railroad. If we don't do something to honor its legacy, it could be reaching the end of its line." - Eric Adams, Brooklyn Borough President
It is important to note that the demolition permit has not been approved, and that a spokesperson from Landmarks says that the request to evaluate the property is under review. Until then, community members and local officials are not waiting quietly. Over 3,700 people have signed a petition for the building’s preservation on Change.org, and Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams is among 20 elected officials who signed a letter urging Landmarks to grant it landmark status.
If their efforts succeed, it would not be the first time the house was spared. In 2007, the city sought to seize the property through eminent domain to create a park. The request was dropped amid public outcry, and Duffield Street was later renamed Abolitionist Place.
If their efforts succeed, it would not be the first time the house was spared. In 2007, the city sought to seize the property through eminent domain to create a park. The request was dropped amid public outcry, and Duffield Street was later renamed Abolitionist Place.
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