The Story Of Hess Triangle - A Small Shape with A Big Impact
Hess Triangle on the corner of Christopher St & Greenwich Ave
New York City is full of surprises, and sometimes, the most fascinating ones are right under your nose—literally. While everyone knows the major shapes in the city like Times Square and Columbus Circle, how many people have heard of Hess Triangle? This tiny, unassuming patch of land in Greenwich Village has a rebellious history that embodies the spirit of New York City. It’s a story of defiance, a fight against eminent domain, and one of the best hidden gems to uncover on your next Quest.
A Fight for Land in a Changing City
Let’s take you back to the early 20th century when Manhattan was undergoing rapid development. David Hess, a landlord in Greenwich Village, owned a building called the Voorhis. At the time, the city was expanding and widening 7th Avenue to create what we now know as 7th Avenue South, and they needed land for both the street and the IRT subway expansion. This project meant the demolition of Hess’ building along with 252 others.
Hess, understandably, didn’t want to give up his property without a fight. He challenged the city in court, but by 1913, he had exhausted all legal avenues and lost the battle. His building was demolished, and it seemed that the city had won. But this wasn’t the end of the story.
The Discovery of Hess Triangle
Fifteen years later, in 1928, Hess’ heirs discovered a tiny sliver of land that the city had somehow missed during the survey. The small triangular plot was still legally owned by the Hess family, and they weren’t about to let the city take it without a fight. When the city asked the family to donate the land, they refused. Instead, they installed a defiant plaque that still stands today: “Property of the Hess Estate which has never been dedicated for public purposes.”
This tiny triangle, located right outside Village Cigars in Greenwich Village, is now one of the city’s most unique landmarks—a symbol of resistance and a testament to New York’s colorful history.
Explore Hess Triangle on a Quest
If you’re tired of the typical tourist traps and want to show your friends or family the “real” New York, why not take them on a Quest to find Hess Triangle? It’s one of those quirky, off-the-beaten-path treasures that makes a New York City scavenger hunt such a unique experience. While everyone else is heading to Times Square, you can uncover this fascinating piece of history and learn about the fight between a landlord and the city’s unstoppable growth.
Why Quests Are the Best Way to Discover NYC
Quests give you the perfect opportunity to engage with the city in a fun, interactive way. They’re not just about finding landmarks but uncovering the stories behind them. Whether you’re exploring famous sites or hidden gems like Hess Triangle, a Quest can make history come alive.
Here’s why a scavenger hunt should be at the top of your New York bucket list:
Explore Hidden History: New York is full of secret spots like Hess Triangle that most people pass by without noticing. A scavenger hunt will guide you to these hidden gems while sharing fascinating backstories.
Challenge Your Mind: Each clue brings a new puzzle, making scavenger hunts a mental and physical challenge. You’ll need your wits about you as you race to find the next location.
Perfect for Locals and Tourists Alike: Whether you’ve lived in NYC your whole life or you’re visiting for the first time, a scavenger hunt will make you see the city through new eyes.
Fun for Groups: Scavenger hunts are a great way to bond with friends, family, or coworkers. It’s the ultimate team-building activity that combines competition with collaboration.
The Real New York Awaits
Hess Triangle may be small, but it’s a perfect example of the unexpected stories that make New York so special. If you’re looking for a new way to experience the city, put away the guidebook and join a scavenger hunt that takes you beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. Whether you’re uncovering hidden history in Greenwich Village or solving clues that lead you through Central Park, a scavenger hunt offers a fun, engaging way to connect with New York’s past and present.
So next time you’re wandering through Greenwich Village, don’t just walk by Village Cigars. Take a moment to appreciate Hess Triangle—a tiny patch of land with a big story. And if you’re looking for more fun facts and hidden gems like this, it’s time to get questing!
Ready to discover the secrets of New York City? Join a scavenger hunt and experience the real New York for yourself.