Owner purchased 1853 house with intent to demolish and develop. On July 11, 2006, Landmarks held a hearing on the John and Margaret Thompson House at 150 Taylor Street in the West New Brighton Neighborhood of Staten Island. The Thompson House was built in 1853 for John Thompson, an Irish immigrant who worked as a silk printer. The three-bayed house was built in the Greek Revival style, which was popular in mid-19th century Staten Island.

At the hearing, several neighbors and nearby residents, many owners of historic homes themselves, expressed concerns about old buildings being destroyed and replaced with row houses, and the resulting loss of character and history on Staten Island’s south shore. A representative of Council Member Michael E. McMahon urged designation, calling the house “of historic importance to Staten Islanders.” The Historic Districts Council and the Society for the Architecture of the City supported designation as well. (read more…)