[Updated July 9, 2023] By the time he was in his late forties, Alexander Hamilton had already established his legacy. He had served as aide-de-camp to General George Washington and then, after the American Revolution, became the nation’s first Secretary of the Treasury.
After leaving his cabinet post in 1795, Hamilton practiced law in New York City but wanted to live the countryside. In those days, Upper Manhattan was the countryside. Several homes had already been built there, like Morris-Jumel Mansion, Dyckman Farmhouse, and further north in the Bronx, Van Cortlandt House.
Hamilton commissioned a Federalist-style mansion on what is now 143rd Street and named his new 32-acre home and slice of land “The Grange” after his grandfather’s estate in Scotland. He moved there with his wife Elizabeth Schuyler and their children.
Meanwhile, Hamilton remained politically active, at one point getting into such heated exchanges with his rival Aaron Burr that Burr challenged Hamilton to “an affair of honor.” This famously ended in a duel between the two men resulting in Hamilton’s death, just two years after he moved into his country home.
The Grange stayed in Hamilton’s family for many years but by 1889, it had gotten in the way of Manhattan’s new street grid infrastructure. It was scheduled for demolition but ultimately saved by the intervention of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.
Then in 2009, the National Park Service moved Hamilton Grange—it was literally lifted up, rolled over the top of a neighboring church, lowered onto hydraulic dollies and rolled through the streets of Harlem—to its permanent home on the edge of Saint Nicolas Park in the neighborhood of Hamilton Heights.
Alexander Hamilton’s final home is now a house museum that’s open to the public and is truly a uniquely New York City experience.
Read on to learn more of his legacy, how and when to visit, and where to get a fabulous meal nearby once you’re finished exploring.
Visiting Hamilton Grange National Memorial
In the neighborhood of Hamilton Heights, two stories of the Hamilton home in the are open to the public. The Visitor Center is located on the first floor. Visitors can tour an exhibit and watch a short film, both of which highlight the achievements Hamilton is known for, which are numerous.
Among other things, he established the fleet of ships which evolved into the modern day Coast Guard, he established the U.S. dollar as standard currency, and he was the first U.S. Secretary of the Treasury.
The Historical Floor is on the second floor and features rooms furnished in much the same as they were in the 19th century. It is is a much more personal experience than the first floor, giving a glimpse into Hamilton’s life as he would have lived it with his family on a daily basis. The Historical Floor may only be visited on a guided tour.
Admission to Hamilton Grange is FREE.
How to get to Hamilton Grange
The Grange is located at 414 West 141 Street in Manhattan. Two subway options exist.
- Take the 1 train to 137th Street/City College.
- Take the A, B, C, or D train to 145th Street.
Where to Eat Near Hamilton Grange
Now that you’re in the neighborhood, don’t leave without trying some of Harlem’s best restaurants. The following are located relatively close to Hamilton Grange.
Home Sweet Harlem
Southern inspired food in a laid back setting with weekend brunch and live music on weeknights. 1528 Amsterdam Ave. (b/t 135th and 136th)
The Edge Harlem
Run by sisters and long-time Harlem residents. Set in a historic building where Langston Hughes once met with friends. Food is inspired by the sisters’ British and Jamaican heritage. 101 Edgecombe Ave. (b/t 139th and 140th)
Tsion Café
A popular neighborhood spot that serves contemporary Ethiopian cuisine. Garden seating is available in nice weather. Try their special Ethiopian honey wine. 763 St. Nicholas Ave. (b/t 148th and 149th)
Harlem Public
Stop in for a cold craft beer and brunch or dinner. A solid choice for a good burger, fried pickles, and other comfort pub fare. 3612 Broadway (at 149th St.)