On February 2, 2021, the New York City Landmark Preservation Commission voted to designate 227 Duffield Street (aka Abolitionist Place), Brooklyn, a New York City Landmark, with a vote of 11 in favor and 0 against.
Shortly after designation, New York City purchased the house. Signs were posted with permits for stabilization of the historic building in 2022, but a month later, the rear walls appear to be collapsing, with an image on Twitter from Todd Fine showing the entire rear of the building open. We hope for a positive update.
The home is a rare surviving 19th Century abolitionists’ home, and a stop on the historic underground railroad. Don’t miss the fabulous Youtube video below with ‘Mama Joy’ Chatel.