Ralph Johnson Bunche House, National Historic Landmark house in Kew Gardens, Queens, United States
The Ralph Johnson Bunche House is a neo-Tudor residence in Kew Gardens featuring stone walls, leaded glass windows, and a slate roof that sits on a hillside. Mature trees surround the structure, and a flagstone pathway leads up to the entrance, creating a distinguished appearance among the neighborhood's single-family homes.
Built in 1927, the house became a residence from 1952 onward for someone who played a crucial role in international peace negotiations. The home remained in this family's possession for nearly two decades, marking a key chapter in both their lives and the building's story.
The house carries the story of a groundbreaking resident whose work changed international diplomacy and brought recognition to his family's place in Queens. Walking past it, visitors encounter a modest symbol of African American accomplishment in a suburban setting.
The house is a private residence, so visitors can only view it from the street and should plan accordingly with comfortable walking shoes. The hillside location makes the approach slightly steep, but the surrounding neighborhood is easily accessible for exploration on foot.
Interestingly, the funds from a major international peace award allowed the resident to purchase this specific property in Queens during the 1950s. This connection between global recognition and personal homeownership makes the house a tangible link between international affairs and suburban American life.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
