Willoughby Avenue Convent Closing, Future Uncertain
Holy cow! The Sisters of Mercy Convent at 265 Willoughby Avenue in Clinton Hill is closing after 146 years as a home to nuns devoted to working with the sick and the poor; the convent is facing $20 million in renovations. As for the future of the property? “Selling the convent could help raise even…
Holy cow! The Sisters of Mercy Convent at 265 Willoughby Avenue in Clinton Hill is closing after 146 years as a home to nuns devoted to working with the sick and the poor; the convent is facing $20 million in renovations. As for the future of the property? “Selling the convent could help raise even more money for their mission, Sister McCann said, but no decision has been reached. Though the building is not a landmark — giving wide leeway for any new owners to develop or demolish the property — some nuns said they hoped they could still return to the chapel on special occasions.” Yikes! LPC, where are ya?
After 146 Years, a Brooklyn Convent Is Closing [NY Times] GMAP P*Shark
At a Brooklyn Convent, a Season of Heartbreak [City Room]
Photo from PropertyShark
The Landmarks Commission landmarked two big Catholic Church complexes in Harlem in 2006 so it can be done.
I wish I did. Perhaps a first step would be to contact the City Councilperson for that district then work forward from there? And does anyone actually KNOW anyone at Landmark’s?
I can set it up, it’s very easy. I just want to get a little more information on the building before doing it. If anyone has more details or photos please let me know!
If it is not landmarked, it is toast.
I think the last thing in the world the Landmarks Commission would be looking for now is a political fight with the Catholic Church and the Sisters of Mercy.
I was thinking one of those online petitions. I don’t know how to set one of those up. Does anyone have the know how?
As my friend Neil likes to say, “I have forgiven the sisters, but the Franciscans? — Never!”
To add a human note to this, seeing those aged and infirm nuns who have dedicated their entire lives to God and to helping others, having to leave their homes to get shipped elsewhere is very sad. While I gave up being Catholic years ago, I still have great respect for true people of faith, who walk the walk. An order of nuns which specifically worked with Negro and Indian children, were responsible for my mother’s education, including putting her through Xavier University in New Orleans in the 40’s. If she hadn’t become the person she was, I might not be who I am. The chapel should be preserved, if only for their sake.
Gorgeous.
Please save this!
It could easily be turned into Condos, while preserving the exterior and the spectacular interiors.
If only we lived in an ideal world!
What a great idea Cobblegirl, I would be happy to create a petition if people would send it around. I think even those who don’t like landmarking would look at this building complex and have second thoughts about tearing it down.
jftprospect.