Lena Horne's former St. Albans residence in New York City has been listed for sale. The six-bedroom, Tudor-style home, owned by the actress, singer, and activist from 1946 to 1962, is on the market for $1.2 million, according to ABC7NY. The property includes the original banister and interior features that reflect its historical character.
Since Lena Horne’s departure, the home has had only two other owners. The current owner, Camille Chin-Kee-Fatt, purchased the property in 2004 and was unaware of its history until the previous owner mentioned it. In an interview with ABC7NY, Chin-Kee-Fatt recalled, “I said Mrs. Robinson, excuse me, what did you say? She said, oh, we bought the home from Lena Horne.” She has stated her intention to pass the home on to responsible future owners.
Addisleigh Park Historic District has historically been known as the "African-American Gold Coast" and was home to figures such as Joe Lewis and Jackie Robinson. Chin-Kee-Fatt told the New York Post that residents of Addisleigh Park previously had to file lawsuits to challenge restrictive covenants that prevented Black people from living in the neighborhood. In purchasing and now selling her house, Chin-Kee-Fatt acknowledges the legacy of Ms. Lena Horne.
The home covers 2,287 square feet over four levels, including a finished basement that once contained an old bar, which captured Chin-Kee-Fatt's imagination. She noted to the New York Post, "I had to get rid of it, because it was falling apart, but I always think, my goodness, if this bar could talk." The property also features a spacious backyard with a hot tub and gazebo, combining historical character with modern amenities.
Real estate agent Matthew Wynter, who is handling the sale, captures the essence of the neighborhood's tight-knit community, a place where "homes rarely list," as he shared with the New York Post. The legacy of Horne and other historic figures remains evident, with neighbors sharing stories, such as Horne serving hot chocolate to local children during Christmas. The home now awaits its next steward, ready to continue the story of this storied corner of Queens.
