214 West 72nd Street
214 West 72nd Street
Date: 1890-92
NB Number: NB 1751-1890
Type: Rowhouse
Architect: Boylan, William H.
Developer/Owner/Builder: William Miller
Row Configuration: Originally part of a row of four houses of which this is the only one that remains.
NYC Landmarks Designation: Historic District
Landmark Designation Report: Addendum to the West End-Collegiate Historic District Extension Designation Report
National Register Designation: N/A
Primary Style: Queen Anne with alterations
Primary Facade: Masonry
Stories: 5
Historic District: West End-Collegiate HD Extension
Significant Architectural Features: Rusticated stone banding at third and fourth stories and rope molding above fourth story; bay windows at third through fifth stories; incised lintels at fourthand fifth-story window openings; bracketed limestone cornice with anthemion cresting at roofline; molded masonry entablature at main (residential) entry.
Alterations: Built out at first and second stories to accommodate commercial storefronts (prior to
c. 1939 tax photograph); first-story storefront further altered after c. 1995; replaced sashes (oneover-one double-hung sashes present in c. 1939 tax photograph); screen windows; non-historic door enframement and transom at main (residential) entry; awning at main (residential) entry; commercial signage and lights at first-story storefront and at main (residential) entry; sign or flag armature at second story.
Site Features: In-ground metal hatch in sidewalk
Notable History and Residents: This is reported to be an early childhood home of noted author Dorothy Parker (1893-1967), though the duration of her time on the premises is uncertain. As an adult, Parker remained on the Upper West Side, living at 71st, 73rd, 76th, 68th, and 80th Streets, the latter bearing a commemorative plaque.
References: Joseph Berger, “To Fan Fearing Wrecking l, the City is Dorothy Parker’s,” New York Times, October 21, 2011, A28; Landmarks Preservation Commission, Research Files; Marion Meade, Dorothy Parker: What Fresh Hell Is This (New York: Penguin Books, 1989) 8; Stephen W. Plumb, “Sample Tour: A Colorful Upper West Side Neighborhood,” http://www.plumden.com (accessed December 4, 2012).
North Facade: Designed (historic, painted)
Door(s): Replaced primary door
Windows: Replaced
Storefront(s): Replaced
Cornice: Original
Sidewalk Material(s): Concrete
Curb Material(s): Masonry
East Facade: Not designed (historic) (partially visible)
Facade Notes: Very small portion of east facade visible; resurfaced
This building has been demolished and was replaced by the Parker West.