Amiable Child Monument

Amiable Child Monument Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide | New York City Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: The History and Significance of the Amiable Child Monument

Tucked quietly within the leafy expanse of Riverside Park in Manhattan lies the Amiable Child Monument—one of New York City’s most touching and singular historical sites. This understated memorial honors St. Clair Pollock, a five-year-old boy who tragically died in 1797. Unlike grand civic memorials, this intimate gravesite offers a rare window into the city’s rural origins and the personal narratives that have shaped its evolution. Set near 122nd Street and Riverside Drive, its tranquil setting forms a poignant contrast with the surrounding urban landscape, embodying themes of innocence, remembrance, and the enduring power of community memory (NYC Parks; insolitusanywhere.com).

Originally erected by the Pollock family, the monument has survived for more than two centuries, safeguarded by protective deed clauses and later by public preservation efforts. Its neoclassical granite urn and wrought-iron fence, added in 1897 to mark the centennial of St. Clair’s death, reflect the city’s commitment to honoring even its most private stories. Today, the monument is accessible to all within Riverside Park’s open hours, offering a peaceful place for reflection and connecting visitors to the city’s layered past (NYC Parks History; NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission).

This guide provides everything you need to know about visiting the Amiable Child Monument: its historical background, practical visitor information, nearby attractions, and travel tips for an enriching experience. Whether you are a history buff, a local, or a curious traveler, this hidden gem invites a thoughtful pause amid New York City’s vibrancy (Bowery Boys History).

Introduction
Historical Background
Monument Design and Inscription
Visiting Hours and Admission
Accessibility and Directions
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Etiquette and Safety
Preservation Efforts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media
Conclusion & Call to Action
Sources

Historical Background

The Amiable Child Monument marks the resting place of St. Clair Pollock, who died after falling from the cliffs above the Hudson River in 1797. At the time, the area was largely rural, marked by country estates and woodland. In a rare deviation from custom, the Pollock family chose to bury their son at the site of his death rather than in a churchyard, a gesture reflecting deep personal loss and the customs of the era (NYC Parks).

The grave initially bore a simple stone with a heartfelt epitaph. Through the 19th century, the site was protected by successive landowners and eventually by the designers of Riverside Park, who integrated it into the landscape. The current granite urn and iron fence were installed in 1897, coinciding with the monument’s centenary (NYC Parks History).

The monument is the only private grave on New York City parkland, and its survival is due to legal deed provisions and later, landmark designation. It has inspired generations of writers, including Herman Melville, whose poem “The Amiable Child” muses on the site’s quiet significance (Poetry Foundation).

Monument Design and Inscription

The monument features a neoclassical granite urn on a square pedestal, encircled by a wrought-iron fence. Its modest scale—about four feet high—reflects its intimate purpose and sets it apart from the grand nearby tombs. The inscription is simple but moving:

“Erected to the Memory of an Amiable Child, St. Clair Pollock, Died 15 July 1797, in the Fifth Year of His Age.”

A biblical passage from Job XIV:1-2 is also inscribed:

“Man that is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble. He cometh like a flower and is cut down; he fleeth also as a shadow and continueth not.”

This eloquent memorial invites reflection on the fragility of life and the persistence of memory (insolitusanywhere.com).

Visiting Hours and Admission

Visiting Hours: The Amiable Child Monument is accessible during Riverside Park’s open hours, daily from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
Admission: There is no ticket required; entry is free to the public.
Best Times to Visit: Early mornings and late afternoons offer peaceful settings and optimal photography conditions.

Accessibility and Directions

Location: Riverside Park, just north of 122nd Street and west of Riverside Drive, Manhattan.
Subway: Take the 1 train to 125th Street or 116th Street–Columbia University; both stations are a 10–15 minute walk from the monument.
Bus: The M5 and M104 buses stop nearby along Riverside Drive and Broadway.
On Foot: Paved park paths provide access, though some gentle slopes and uneven terrain may be present.
Wheelchair Access: The monument is stroller-friendly and accessible via park paths; visitors with mobility challenges should consult the NYC Parks accessibility page.
Restrooms: Available at Grant’s Tomb Visitor Center and select park locations.

Nearby Attractions

Grant’s Tomb: The imposing mausoleum of President Ulysses S. Grant, just across Riverside Drive.
Riverside Park: Features walking and biking trails, gardens, playgrounds, and Hudson River views.
Columbia University: A short walk away, offering historic architecture and cultural sites.
Claremont Playground: Family-friendly recreation nearby.
Dining: Numerous cafes and restaurants are located along Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue.

Visitor Etiquette and Safety

Treat the site with respect—it is a gravesite.
Refrain from climbing or sitting on the fence or monument.
Leave only flowers or small, non-perishable tokens.
Dispose of trash properly; help keep the area clean.
Photography is allowed for personal use. Professional equipment may require a permit from NYC Parks.
Riverside Park is generally safe during daylight hours. Remain aware of surroundings, especially after dark.

Preservation Efforts

The monument’s survival is credited to a combination of family deed clauses, public advocacy, and government action. It was designated a New York City Landmark in 1967 and is included in the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Riverside Park Historic District (NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission; National Park Service). Ongoing maintenance is provided by the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Amiable Child Monument visiting hours?
A: The monument is open daily during Riverside Park’s hours, from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM.

Q: Is there an admission fee or do I need tickets?
A: No, the monument and park are free to access.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, via paved park paths, though some nearby terrain may be uneven.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: There are no regular guided tours specifically for the monument, but some local historical organizations offer group walks that include it.

Q: What’s the best way to get there?
A: The 1 train to 125th or 116th Street stations, or M5/M104 buses, provide easy access.

Q: Can I combine my visit with other sites?
A: Absolutely—Grant’s Tomb, Riverside Park’s memorials, and Columbia University are all nearby.

Visuals and Media

For images and virtual tours, visit the official Riverside Park website and NYCgo historical sites page. Optimized images with alt tags such as “Amiable Child Monument New York City” and “Amiable Child Monument visiting hours” can enhance your planning.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The Amiable Child Monument stands as a quietly powerful testament to New York City’s layered history—commemorating a brief life, yet symbolizing enduring themes of innocence, loss, and remembrance. Its preservation amid urban growth reflects a thoughtful balance between honoring heritage and embracing change. With its serene setting, free access, and proximity to other historical sites, the monument offers a unique opportunity for reflection in the heart of Manhattan.

To deepen your experience, consider exploring nearby landmarks and using virtual resources or guided tours. For the latest updates, virtual guides, and more historical site recommendations, download the Audiala app and connect with us on social media.