Croton Aqueduct Gate House

The Croton Aqueduct Gate House is a gatehouse in Manhattanville with stone walls, arched windows, and a mansard roof at the corner of 135th Street and Convent Avenue. It was originally designed as part of the water management system that supplied Manhattan with fresh water.

The building was constructed in 1884 by architect Frederick S. Cook to regulate water flow within the Croton Aqueduct system. It was a key component of the infrastructure that kept the city supplied with fresh water.

The building serves as a theater space for Harlem Stage since 2006, hosting performances and cultural events for the community. This transformation shows how historical infrastructure supports contemporary cultural life.

The building sits at an accessible street corner in Manhattan and can be easily explored on foot. Visitors should note it functions as an active theater space, so it is wise to check beforehand if public visits are available.

The building underwent nearly complete restoration when converted to a theater space, preserving its original architectural details and materials. This careful restoration shows how historical structures can maintain their original character while serving new purposes.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1884

GPS coordinates: 40.81833,-73.95167

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:25