A Horse Stable in The Big Apple!

A Horse Stable in The Big Apple!

A Horse Stable in The Big Apple!

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The 19th Century had inner city transport problems, which at the time could only be solved by horses. Today when we think back, our imaginations lock on to thoughts of romantic carriage rides through Central Park and how wonderful it must have been when it was the only means of transportation.

In the 1800s, horses were ridden to and from work, for errands, for police patrol, delivery wagons, peddlers’ carts, fire engines, ambulances, omnibuses, cabs and private carriages. The well-to-do had their own private stables but the majority of horses were kept in public stables. By 1880 the horse population in New York and Brooklyn was estimated at 175,000. That equated to three million pounds of manure and 40,000 gallons of urine a day on streets and in stables. That same year New York City removed 15,000 dead horses from the streets.

Aside from disease from flies and manure dust, noise pollution from steel horse shoes on cobblestone was almost unbearable and disposal of waste was insurmountable. In winter when waste disposal was almost impossible, the combination of snow and manure rose the ground surface up to six feet. For those fortunate enough to afford one, the brownstone became the most sought after residence due to its second floor entrance.

The history of the 19th Century horse stable has made a masterful turnaround at 149 East 38th Street at the George S. Bowdoin Stable in Murray Hill. With its original historic facade and its sweeping contemporary interior, this stable defies its past in every conceivable way. Currently used as an art and event venue, the 7,400 square foot, 25’ wide building would make the perfect residence. The three story building contains a chef's kitchen, dining area, office space and fireplace on the second floor with two rooms and a terrace on the third floor. The main floor contains a large reception-living area with soaring ceilings filled with light and a dramatic freestanding stairwell.

Built in 1902, the landmarked George S. Bowdoin Stable is now offered for sale at $8,250,000.

Source: www.loopnet.com