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Rose Hill - Manhattan - NYC

Rose Hill is an old neighborhood with an old neighborhood name - one that has fallen into disuse. But the personality of the neighborhood just to the east of Madison Square Park is still befitting of the nostalgic name.

Rose Hill VIDEO

The Neighborhood

Tucked between East 23rd Street and East 34th Street, and Madison Avenue and 3rd Avenue, is the small, eclectic neighborhood of Rose Hill. There are glittering office buildings along Park Avenue South, and sleepy side streets. There's Baruch College and the spire of the Metropolitan Life Tower.

And there's a sense that this neighborhood - off the beaten tourist path - reflects the history and air of confidence that it gets from its old-timey name.

The neighborhood of Rose Hill, Manhattan is a historic and vibrant area with a rich architectural and cultural heritage. Located in the eastern part of Manhattan, Rose Hill takes its name from the former Rose Hill Farm, which once occupied the area during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, Rose Hill is primarily known as the site of Fordham University's Lincoln Center campus, a prestigious institution of higher learning. The neighborhood is characterized by its elegant townhouses, tree-lined streets, and a mix of residential and commercial buildings. One of the notable landmarks in the area is the Morgan Library & Museum, which houses a vast collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artwork. The New York Public Library's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, also known as the Main Branch, is situated on the southeastern edge of Rose Hill. With its blend of academic institutions, cultural institutions, and historic charm, Rose Hill remains an alluring destination within the bustling heart of Manhattan.

The neighborhood of Rose Hill in Manhattan derived its name from the former Rose Hill Farm, which once occupied the area. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the land was owned by the prominent merchant and statesman James Watts, who named the estate after the family's ancestral home in Scotland. Rose Hill Farm was known for its beautiful rose gardens, which lent the estate its distinctive name. Over time, the surrounding area became associated with the name Rose Hill, and it eventually extended beyond the boundaries of the original farm. Today, while the farm itself no longer exists, the neighborhood of Rose Hill retains its name as a nod to the area's historic past and the fragrant roses that once graced the landscape.

The history of the neighborhood of Rose Hill, Manhattan dates back to the colonial era when the land was part of the sprawling Rose Hill Farm. Established in the late 18th century by James Watts, a prominent merchant and statesman, the farm covered a significant portion of what is now known as the Rose Hill neighborhood. The area thrived as an agricultural estate with lush gardens and rose fields, hence the name "Rose Hill." Over time, the farmland gave way to urban development as Manhattan expanded northward. Rose Hill became a desirable residential area in the 19th century, attracting affluent families who constructed elegant townhouses and mansions. The neighborhood also gained prominence as an educational hub, with the establishment of institutions such as Fordham University and the New York University School of Medicine. Today, Rose Hill continues to evolve, blending its historical charm with modern amenities, making it a sought-after neighborhood in the heart of Manhattan.

While Rose Hill, Manhattan may be a smaller neighborhood, it is not short on notable landmarks and attractions. One of the standout features is the Morgan Library & Museum, located on Madison Avenue. This cultural institution houses an impressive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artwork, including works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt and Picasso. Another prominent landmark is the New York Public Library's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, commonly known as the Main Branch. This iconic Beaux-Arts-style building is a bibliophile's paradise, offering an extensive collection of books and hosting various exhibitions and events. For those seeking green spaces, St. Gabriel's Park provides a serene and tranquil oasis, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and paths. The neighborhood is also home to a number of architecturally significant buildings, including the Gothic Revival-style Church of the Incarnation and the neo-Grec-style Roosevelt Building. With its blend of cultural institutions, architectural gems, and pockets of greenery, Rose Hill offers a variety of attractions that enrich the fabric of the neighborhood.

The neighborhood of Rose Hill, Manhattan has been home to several notable individuals who have left their mark in various fields. One prominent figure is Edgar Allan Poe, the renowned American writer and poet, who resided in the area for a brief period during the mid-19th century. Poe's time in Rose Hill is said to have inspired some of his notable works. Another notable individual from the neighborhood is E.L. Doctorow, a celebrated author known for his historical novels, including "Ragtime" and "The March." Doctorow's literary contributions have earned him critical acclaim and a lasting legacy. Additionally, Rose Hill has been associated with Fordham University, an esteemed institution of higher learning. Notable alumni from Fordham include Vince Lombardi, the legendary football coach, and Denzel Washington, the Academy Award-winning actor. These individuals, among others, have called Rose Hill their home, contributing to the cultural and intellectual fabric of the neighborhood.

HIGHLIGHT GALLERY

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All photography provided by Samuel Walters