12-06-1995 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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What is the history behind Gramercy Park Cooperative? Gramercy Park Cooperative is inspired by the tradition of common - interest communities that were formed in the Gramercy Park neighborhood of New York City in 1831. One hundred and sixty years ago Samuel Ruggles developed an tranquil residential area surrounding a private park. He named the area "Gramercy," a Dutch word meaning "meandering little brook." Ruggles divided the land surrounding the green space into 66 residential lots with the understanding that each homeowner would have access to the park. He then created a board of trustees to maintain the natural beauty for the enjoyment of the home owners. The concept proved attractive and soon homes encircled the site. Red brick townhouses with elaborate cast iron porches and Victorian Gothic styles embellished with intricate sculptural detailing testify to the individuality of the early residents. One of the homes was designed for James Harper, mayor of New York in 1844. Flanked by two elaborate iron lanterns, the "Mayor's lamps" were lit when the politician was home making it easy for his constituents to locate him. In 1883, architect George de Cunha built The Gramercy, one of the first cooperatives in New York, the inspiration for Gramercy Park Cooperatives. Today, enclosed by an ornate wrought -iron fence, Gramercy Park remains private, secure, and serene - -the only such square in New York. Enjoyment of the park is limited to those with keys, the homeowners and tenants of Gramercy Park. The vision of Samuel Ruggles, to create a neighborhood of shared resources and beauty to be maintained and enjoyed exclusively by the resident - owners, has been revived. As a Gramercy Park Cooperative member, you, too, will receive a key, one that will open the door to your custom - designed cooperative as well as to a gracious, carefree, active lifestyle. Page 41