The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) voted on Tuesday, December 13th to designate the wooden house at 412 East 85th Street as the newest individual landmark on the Upper East Side. The building was first put on the LPC’s calendar for designation back in 1966, so finally, after 50 years, we can celebrate its long-deserved designation!

Built circa 1860, this house is one of the few remaining wood frame structures on the Upper East Side, and serves as a reminder of a bygone era when Yorkville was primarily farmland. Its owners have carefully restored the house according to the earliest documentation, and their steadfast stewardship has helped this building remain an architectural gem the neighborhood. Often thought of as an “unofficial” landmark in Yorkville, we are happy that its deserving landmark status has now been made official!

During the LPC’s Backlog Initiative, the designation of 412 East 85th Street received much support from elected officials, groups, and individuals. In addition to testimony from FRIENDS, the building also received vocal support from Council Member Ben Kallos, the Historic Districts Council, New York Landmarks Conservancy, Municipal Art Society, Victorian Society New York, Carnegie Hill Neighbors, Community Board 8, and Historic Park Avenue.

Three cheers for the Upper East Side’s 129th individual landmark!