Arbor Hill Historic District–Ten Broeck Triangle

Arbor Hill Historic District-Ten Broeck Triangle is a seven-block residential area containing over 200 buildings spanning 34 acres with Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian styles throughout its streets. The district includes numerous rowhouses, two churches, and the gardens adjacent to the Ten Broeck Mansion, forming a cohesive neighborhood fabric.

Development started in 1797 when the Ten Broeck Mansion was built for Elizabeth Van Rensselaer and Abraham Ten Broeck, attracting wealthy residents to the area. Throughout the 1800s, the distinctive residential buildings that define the district today took shape as the neighborhood became fashionable among the city's affluent families.

The neighborhood evolved from a wealthy residential enclave into an African American community following the Great Migration, a transformation visible in how residents use and maintain the streets today. This shift shaped the social fabric and identity of the district over many decades.

The area is best explored on foot, allowing visitors to observe architectural details on building facades and access the gardens at close range. The manageable size means you can cover the main sights in a few hours, with the two churches and the mansion serving as helpful landmarks for orientation.

Local organizations operate financial incentive programs and auctions to encourage the purchase and restoration of abandoned buildings within the district, making historic structures more accessible to new owners. These efforts have helped breathe new life into several properties and support gradual neighborhood renewal.

Location: Albany

GPS coordinates: 42.65722,-73.75139

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:03