The Legacy of Lena Horne: A Cultural Landmark in Queens
A historic Queens property once owned by the iconic performer Lena Horne is poised for its next chapter. Located in the heart of St. Albans, this significant home is currently under contract, with negotiations reportedly approaching its asking price of $1.22 million. This interest highlights the appeal of a neighborhood renowned for its rich cultural heritage.
The Tudor-Style Home
Listing broker Matthew Wynter of Brown Harris Stevens shared with The New York Post that the Tudor-style residence at 112-45 178th Street, situated in the Addisleigh Park Historic District, attracted considerable attention following its market debut in November. The home spans approximately 2,287 square feet, boasting six bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. It beautifully combines preserved historical features with modern comforts, showcasing hardwood floors, elegant crown moldings, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace.
Beyond its attractive interior, the property also includes a finished basement, a private driveway, a garage, and an outdoor oasis complete with a deck, gazebo, and hot tub. These attributes make it not just a home, but a retreat for its future resident.
A Symbol of Cultural Significance
Horne’s name carries significant weight, but the home’s location adds a compelling layer to its historical context. Addisleigh Park, known during the mid-20th century as the “African-American Gold Coast,” became a sanctuary for distinguished Black entertainers, athletes, and professionals at a time when systemic housing discrimination otherwise restricted their living options.
A Community of Excellence
The St. Albans area has a rich roster of notable residents, including the legendary Count Basie, the incomparable Ella Fitzgerald, the dynamic James Brown, and sports icon Jackie Robinson. Their presence transformed the neighborhood into a unique confluence of Black excellence, showcasing a narrative of upward mobility and community achievement.
Wynter highlighted that Lena Horne was among the pioneering Black homeowners in this vibrant neighborhood, reinforcing its legacy as a hub of cultural significance. The area’s well-preserved architecture and the memories shared by longtime residents serve as testimonies to this history.
Horne’s Personal Connection
Originally constructed in 1935, the home was purchased by Horne in 1946. She lived there for nearly two decades before relocating to Manhattan, where she remained a resident until her passing in 2010 at the age of 92. The current owner, Camille Chin-Kee-Fatt, bought the property in 2004 from a family that had acquired it directly from Horne.
Chin-Kee-Fatt first learned about the home’s connection to Horne only after seeing it listed for sale. “That sent it over the top for me,” she remarked, emphasizing how the house became her singular choice during her search for a new home.
A New Chapter Awaits
As this historic property moves toward a sale, it underscores the ongoing relevance of Lena Horne’s legacy and the cultural richness of the St. Albans neighborhood. The home’s blend of history and modernity not only makes it appealing to buyers but also serves as a reminder of the significant contributions made by its former homeowner and the community around it.
