As a child, as my parents would drive me up and down the FDR, I was always fascinated with a mysterious castle-like building that stood at the southern foot of Roosevelt Island, a few yards from the water’s edge. Against the industrial backdrop of coastal Queens, the abandoned structure always looked mystifying, with it’s Gothic look and magnificent masonry. Recently, I was bored at home so I randomly decided to do some research and find out the history of this out-of-place ruin.

As it turns out, this spooky, dark building is actually a former hospital! The Renwick Smallpox Hospital operated from 1856 through 1886 as a quarantine and treatment facility for all local cases of the highly contagious disease. Once the hospital closed, it operated for another 65 years or so as a nurse’s quarters. The building may look familiar, as it’s architect and namesake, James Renwick, also designed St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Now abandoned for fifty years, the Renwick Hospital stands as New York City’s only landmarked ruin.

Further Reading:
– Roosevelt Island
– Google Maps
– Short YouTube Video
– Photos 1
– Photos 2

[Image courtesy JPG Magazine]