213 First Avenue; 211-213 First Avenue | Block : 454 | Lot #38

Description & Building Alterations

This old law tenement building was completed in 1871 by architect W.E. Warring for owner Thomas Hodgins. In 1929, two stores occupied the first floor and the upper floors each had two families. Existing partitions were removed and replaced to create new bathrooms and the fire escapes were extended. At this time the owner was Giovanni Casale and the architect was Laspia & Sameniela.

In 1936 a baking oven was removed, the first floor bakery was enlarged with a rear extension, and the fire escapes were relocated to the front façade. In 1948 the storefront was covered with porcelain enamel and the first floor ceiling was lowered by twelve inches. At this time the owner was Joseph Saccaro. The building is five stories in height, five bays wide, and clad in brick with stone lintels and sills at the windows. The cornice is arched at the center and features brackets, modillions, and dentils. The storefront has been modernized.