Chester A. Arthur

Introduction

Chester A. Arthur, the 21st President of the United States, holds a distinctive place in both American and New York City history. Although often overshadowed by other presidents, Arthur’s legacy is profoundly connected to the social, political, and architectural tapestry of New York. As a reformer and a political insider, his journey from a progressive lawyer to a national leader is reflected in the city’s enduring landmarks: his former residence at 123 Lexington Avenue and the bronze statue in Madison Square Park.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview for those interested in exploring Arthur’s historical sites in New York City. Here, you will find essential visiting details, historical context, architectural highlights, and practical tips for making the most of your visit. Whether you’re a history buff, student, or a curious traveler, these sites offer unique insight into Arthur’s reform legacy and the city’s presidential heritage. (The Clio, Spotting History, NYC Parks)

1. History and Significance of Chester A. Arthur in New York City

Chester Alan Arthur (1829–1886) was born in Vermont but spent most of his life and political career in New York. After graduating from Union College, he moved to New York City in 1848 to practice law, quickly involving himself in local Republican politics. One of his most notable legal victories was the 1854 case of Elizabeth Jennings Graham, which led to the desegregation of New York City’s streetcars and foreshadowed his later commitment to civil service reform.

Arthur’s political fortunes rose as he became Collector of the Port of New York, a highly influential position within the Republican Party’s Stalwart faction. Although he was dismissed in 1878 amid reform efforts, his reputation for personal integrity endured, setting the stage for his nomination as vice president alongside James Garfield in 1880.

Following Garfield’s assassination in 1881, Arthur was sworn in as president in the parlor of his home at 123 Lexington Avenue—the only surviving building in New York City to have hosted a presidential inauguration. After his presidency, Arthur returned to this residence, where he died in 1886. His memory is further commemorated by the bronze statue in Madison Square Park, highlighting his impact on both the city and the nation.

2. Visiting Chester A. Arthur's Historical Sites: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

2.1. 123 Lexington Avenue: Chester A. Arthur’s Former Residence

• Location: 123 Lexington Avenue, between 28th and 29th Streets, Rose Hill/Murray Hill, Manhattan (Google Maps)
• Current Use: Ground and second floors are occupied by Kalustyan’s Spice Emporium; upper floors are private apartments.
• Visiting Hours: Kalustyan’s is open Monday–Saturday, 10 AM–7 PM, and Sunday, 11 AM–6 PM. Visitors are welcome during business hours to view the commemorative plaque in the vestibule.
• Tickets: No admission fee; the site is not a museum and does not offer interior tours.
• Accessibility: The entrance to Kalustyan’s is wheelchair accessible; however, the historic upper floors are not open to the public.
• Visitor Experience: While interior access to Arthur’s residence is not available, the Romanesque Revival facade and commemorative plaque offer a meaningful connection to presidential history. The site’s architectural features are best appreciated from the street.

(Spotting History, NPS, Postcard Past, Daytonian in Manhattan)

2.2. Madison Square Park: Chester A. Arthur Statue

• Location: Madison Square Park, near Madison Avenue & 25th–26th Streets (Google Maps)
• Park Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM; admission is free.
• Getting There: Accessible by subway (6, N, R, W to 23rd Street).
• Accessibility: The monument and park are fully wheelchair accessible.
• Visitor Experience: The fifteen-foot bronze statue by George Edwin Bissell (1899) stands on a Barre Granite pedestal and depicts Arthur with a book in hand. The statue is a peaceful spot for reflection and photography, set amid one of Manhattan’s most beloved parks.

(NYC Parks, The Clio, City Beautiful Blog, Wikipedia)

3. Nearby Attractions and Recommendations

• Rose Hill and Murray Hill: Explore these neighborhoods for beautiful 19th-century architecture.
• Flatiron Building: Iconic triangular skyscraper, a short walk from both Arthur sites.
• Morgan Library & Museum: Renowned for rare manuscripts and art collections.
• Eataly & Local Cafes: Enjoy diverse culinary options in the Flatiron District.
• Seasonal Park Events: Madison Square Park hosts art installations, concerts, and community events (Loving New York).

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are there guided tours of Chester A. Arthur’s NYC sites?
A: No site-specific tours are available, but general NYC history or Flatiron District walking tours may feature these landmarks.

Q: Can I visit inside 123 Lexington Avenue?
A: No. The interior is private; however, you can access Kalustyan’s on the lower floors and see the plaque during business hours.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No; both the plaque at 123 Lexington Avenue and the Madison Square Park statue are free to visit.

Q: Are these sites wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. The entrance to Kalustyan’s and Madison Square Park are wheelchair accessible, but the upper floors of 123 Lexington Avenue are private.

Q: What’s the best time to visit?
A: Spring and fall offer the best weather for walking tours, and weekdays are generally less crowded.

5. Visual Highlights

• 123 Lexington Avenue: Romanesque Revival facade, historic plaque, and Kalustyan’s storefront.
• Madison Square Park Statue: Detailed bronze sculpture, granite pedestal, and park setting.
• Neighborhood Map: Proximity to Flatiron Building, Morgan Library, and other sites.

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6. Explore More New York City History

Discover additional presidential landmarks and political history by exploring related resources:

• Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace Museum
• Grant’s Tomb National Memorial
• History of Madison Square Park

7. Summary and Next Steps

Chester A. Arthur’s sites in New York City provide a unique lens into the history of civil service reform, political transformation, and architectural heritage. While 123 Lexington Avenue is not open for public interior tours, its facade and commemorative plaque offer an evocative glimpse into Arthur’s life. The Madison Square Park monument stands as a vibrant public tribute to a president who championed integrity in government.

Visitors benefit from free, accessible sites set amid some of Manhattan’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Enhance your experience with digital tours or walking guides and immerse yourself in the stories of New York’s past.

Start your journey into New York’s presidential history today!