199 First Avenue | Block : 454 | Lot #44

Description & Building Alterations

This building was constructed as part of a set of row houses found on the adjacent three lots. This is still evident today as illustrated in their continuous façade and party walls. According to historic tax records the structures were completed in 1850. Before construction the vacant lot was valued at $1,300 and the owner was Margaret Folson. After construction the building was valued at $3,150. Eventually the building would come to face the First Avenue elevated train line.

The partitions, store front, columns, and girders were removed and replaced in 1928. The rear window openings were also enlarged during this time under owner LaStella Holding Corp. and architect Charles Reissmann. An extension with a fire proof roof was added to the rear of the building in 1931 under owner Louis Goldstein and architect S. Walter Katz. New fire escapes were added to the rear of the building in 1936. 199 First Avenue is four stories in height, three bays wide, and clad in brick. There is a bracketed cornice and the storefront has been significantly altered.