Dr. Samuel MacKenzie Elliott House, house in Staten Island, New York
The Dr. Samuel MacKenzie Elliott House is a Gothic Revival residence on Staten Island built from light-colored granite blocks with thick walls and eight rooms inside. The building features a simple box-like shape accented by a curved and decorated roof edge, creating a distinctive appearance that stands out in the neighborhood.
The house was built in the mid-1800s by Dr. Elliott, a Scottish-born doctor who arrived in New York in the early 1830s and developed the surrounding area. The neighborhood was called Elliottsville in his honor, and he built 15 homes in the region before his legacy became tied to this single preserved residence.
The neighborhood around this house was once called Elliottsville after Dr. Elliott and his family, showing how connected he was to the community's identity. The building's Gothic style with stone walls and decorated roof edge represents how well-to-do families of the era chose to display their status through architecture.
The house sits across from Walker Park and is clearly visible as you walk through the neighborhood on Staten Island's North Shore. Since it remains a private residence, you can only view it from the street and should respect the private property boundaries.
The house's large cellar with its special fireplace may have served as a refuge for African Americans escaping slavery seeking safe passage. This hidden aspect of the home reflects Dr. Elliott's involvement with the anti-slavery movement and adds a layer of meaning to the building's historical significance.
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