Situated on landfill extending 600 feet beyond the original shoreline, these six counting houses were built as a speculative venture by the merchant and ship owner Peter Schermerhorn. Designed to serve the modest sailing ship trade and small business economy of early 19th century New York, these buildings are among the best surviving examples of the counting house type. Built as a group like residential row houses, counting houses represent an early phase in the development of commercial architecture in New York when buildings had not yet acquired architectural individuality based on their function. Combining Federal Style and Greek Revival elements, these structures evolved from 18th century English counting halls, which had derived from 17th century market halls. The structures' simple Flemish bond brick walls and plain white stone lintels and sills contrast with their more elaborate doorways.
Schermerhorn Row Block was designated a landmark by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission in 1968. It sits within the South Street Seaport Hisoric District and Extension, which was designated a historic district by the New York City Landmarks Preservation commission in 1977 and 1989.
Schermerhorn Row Block National Register #71000547
South Street Seaport National Register #72000883
South Street Seaport Historic District National Register #72000884
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