In 1802, Founding Father, Alexander Hamilton built his estate, the Grange, in Harlem Heights. As a young girl in the 1960s, I lived across the street from the house.
Beyond its historical and architectural significance, it matters symbolically that the home remains in Harlem. Hamilton was one of our earliest leaders who advocated freedom for the slaves. In his private life, he was also a member of the New York Manumission Society, an organization founded in 1785, whose purpose was to abolish slavery.
Harlem residents are proud to have his grandly restored mansion in their neighborhood. I hope they are also aware of Hamilton’s legacy. He did much to build our nation, but he also risked his reputation to help enslaved black people, many of whom have decendants living within walking distance of his beloved home.