Although the years have not been kind to this 100+ year-old Cass Gilbert-designed structure, it endures in ruinous grace. It’s an early American example of steel-reinforced concrete construction that served as a rail station for its first 27 years and then survived as a retail spot when rail service was shut down.

From the 1970s until 2012, the site housed a strip club. When the owner died, local resident, MacArthur Fellow, Peabody Award winner, Author and Princeton University professor Majora Carter acquired the building from Amtrak and set about working on its revitalization.

Visitors are encouraged to check out the neighboring Boogie Down Grind Café at 868 Hunts Point Avenue to see photos, signage, and other artifacts from the area as well as the nightclub that occupied the building in the 1970s-80s.

Friday & Saturday Tours: Ongoing
A tour of the structure with a presentation of archival images and architect renderings for future renovations will be shared. For those dressed for adventure, tours can go up into the attic and down into the cellar.

Sensible clothes and shoes are strongly recommended.

Looking for a place to grab a bite or a drink while you’re exploring? Check out The Infatuation’s top Mott Haven picks.