What’s the story behind that cute row of houses on Harrison Street, west of Greenwich? I always wonder as I walk to work. —A.

Here’s what the AIA Guide to New York City (4th edition) says: “These were originally elegant Federal houses, recycled (and rejected) as produce market buildings, 2 on Harrison Street and a group from a now extinct part of Washington Street. Their reincarnation included moving the Washington Street group 2 blocks to this enclave. [The guide says the “Harrison Street Houses” (25-41 Harrison) were finished being relocated and restored in 1975 by Oppenheimer, Brady & Vogelstein.] They have been lovingly restored—perhaps too lovingly: the patina from the passage of time has been totally erased (cf. Williamsburg, Va.). Note that [John] McComb, City Hall’s co-architect, lived in one!” (That’s 27 Harrison—more on it in a minute.)

The guide lists the dates and architects of the individual houses, although it’s not clear which info goes with which house; suffice it to say, I hope, that most were originally built in 1827 and 1828, although the earliest is from 1796.

This is worth clicking to enlarge: It’s a photo by Michael Harvey (from Oliver E. Allen’s “Tales of Old Tribeca” of a house being moved from Washington Street to Harrison Street.

In his book, Tales of Old Tribeca, Oliver E. Allen devoted a chapter to the moving of the houses. (The book is a treat; used copies are available on Amazon.) “The idea of saving the Federal houses originated in the 1960s when a city agency responsible for clearing the urban renewal area asked the recently formed Landmarks Preservation Commission whether any buildings in the area were worthy of being spared the wrecker’s ball. It was known that the district had once been largely covered by two-and-a-half-story wood or brick residences, but most of these had been torn down and replaced in the 19th century by larger commercial structures; had any survived in good condition? Landmarks replied that there were no fewer than nine worth saving, all of which should probably be given landmark designation.” Also, Allen notes that the facade of what is now 27A Harrison collapsed during the move and had to be replaced. (The photo above, from Tales of Old Tribeca, was taken by artist and writer Michael Harvey from his apartment at 323 Greenwich.)

The house that architect John McComb—he of City Hall—lived in, 27 Harrison, is currently for sale for $5.4 million. “The four story building is approximately 4,000 square feet and 25 feet wide with four bedrooms, four and a half baths, four fireplaces and a charming garden,” says the Corcoran listing. “The parlor floor is mostly open providing a ‘loft-like’ space which is bathed in light, a large living area with high ceilings, fireplace, oversized windows, dining area, powder room, and a chef’s kitchen with extensive granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances. The kitchen overlooks the serene 575 square foot garden which is planted with Birch trees and Wisteria. The English basement is nicely finished with a family room and fireplace, a bedroom, bath, and a large laundry room. The third floor has two bedrooms, two baths, excellent storage space and a hall landing with a built-in window seat overlooking the garden. The spectacular master suite occupies the entire fourth floor offering high-pitched ceilings, glorious light from the skylight and dormer windows, two fireplaces, and an open bath with a lovely copper soaking tub and a custom granite double shower. Located on a tree-lined, cobblestone block in the heart of Tribeca, the McComb House was built in 1796 by the architect of City Hall, John McComb, Jr. Moved from its original site, the house was designated as a landmark in 1969.” The photos are small; click to enlarge.

Got a question? Email it to tribecacitizen@gmail.com.

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