Longwood Historic District

The Longwood District was originally part of the town of Morrisania, a township of Westchester County established in 1788. This enclave of masonry row houses, in roman brick with false mansard roofs, is cited as being one of the finest examples of turn of the century architecture that helped transform The Bronx into an extension of Manhattan.

A primarily residential neighborhood, Longwood developed with the extension of the IRT subway in 1904. The area was developed by George B. Johnson, who operated out of the S.B. White mansion at 734 Beck Street. Most of the semi-detached houses were designed with elements of the Renaissance and Romanesque styles by architect Warren C. Dickerson between 1897-1900. Although the house plans are repeated, details are varied to avoid monotony. The houses are set back from the street, with fenced-in gardens that convey a sense of openness. The irregular street plan provides both long and short views, enhancing the attractiveness of the area.

In 2012, the remaining Greek revival style facade of the once derelict Samuel B. White mansion was restored as part of the development of an affordable housing complex. Also of note is the United Church, originally the Montefiore Hebrew Congregation, designed by the Brooklyn architectural firm Daumar & Co. and built in 1906; this Romanesque basilica is crowned with two onion domes. ©2014