Harry F. Sinclair House facts for kids
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Harry F. Sinclair House
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 Location in Manhattan
Location in New York
Location in the United States
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| Location | 2 East 79th Street and Fifth Avenue, Manhattan, New York City, New York |
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| Built | 1897–1899 |
| Architect | C. P. H. Gilbert |
| Architectural style | French Gothic |
| NRHP reference No. | 78001882 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | June 2, 1978 |
| Designated NHL | June 2, 1978 |
The Harry F. Sinclair House is a beautiful old mansion in New York City. It is located at 2 East 79th Street and Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. Today, this grand building is home to the Ukrainian Institute of America. This institute helps share Ukrainian art and literature with everyone. They do this by holding special exhibitions and other events.
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History of the Sinclair House
This mansion was designed by a famous architect named Charles Pierrepont Henry Gilbert. He created it for a wealthy New York banker, Isaac D. Fletcher. The house was started in 1897 and finished in 1898.
When Mr. Fletcher passed away in 1917, he left his house and art collection to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum later sold the house. They used the money to create a special fund. This fund helps the museum buy new prints and drawings for its collection.
In 1918, a rich oil businessman named Harry F. Sinclair bought the house. He founded Sinclair Oil in 1916. Mr. Sinclair lived in the mansion until 1930. He became very well-known because of a famous event in 1922.
New Owners and Names
After Harry F. Sinclair sold the house in 1930, it got a new name. It became known as the Augustus and Anne van Horne Stuyvesant House. Augustus and Anne were a brother and sister. They were descendants of Peter Stuyvesant, a very important figure in New York's history. They moved into the house when their old neighborhood became too busy with businesses.
Since 1955, the mansion has been owned by the Ukrainian Institute of America.
A Unique Design
In 1996, an expert on buildings, Christopher Gray, shared an old opinion about the house. A writer in 1899 had praised its design. They noted that many parts of the house looked like they belonged on a church, not a home. The writer also said the mansion looked "too much like an old copy." This meant it seemed more like a historical display than a modern New York house of its time.
The Harry F. Sinclair House was named a National Historic Landmark in 1978. This means it is a very important historical place. Christopher Gray said it remained "refreshingly unrestored" for a long time. Then, in 1997, some small updates were made to the building.
Ukrainian Institute of America
The Ukrainian Institute of America (UIA) is a group that does not make a profit. Its main office is inside the Harry F. Sinclair House. It was started by William Dzus on May 3, 1948. Mr. Dzus was a Ukrainian businessman and a generous helper.
The main goal of the UIA is to share Ukrainian culture with others. This includes Ukrainian history, art, music, and books. The institute officially began its work in 1955. They often hold art shows featuring talented Ukrainian artists. They also host many other events that celebrate Ukrainian heritage.
Gallery
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The house seen from 5th Avenue
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Looking down the main starirwell
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Salon
See also
In Spanish: Casa de Harry F. Sinclair para niños
