203 First Avenue | Block : 454 | Lot #42

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.

An 1880 alteration extended the first floor on the rear of the building. During this time the owner was G.W. Folson and the architect was Julius Buckell. A later alteration in 1928 removed the exterior columns and lintels, added a new show window, enlarged the rear window openings, and replaced the existing piers. At this time the building was owned by LaStella Holding Corp. and the architect was Charles Reissmann. The final alteration took place in 1936 when the fire escapes were replaced in the rear yard. At this time the owner was Sicula Operating Corp. 203 First Avenue is four stories in height, three bays wide, and clad in brick. It has a bracketed cornice and the storefront has been significantly altered.