History and architecture
This Late Federal Style institutional building was a popular type in the post-Revolutionary period* This three story brick structure with attic and low basement, retains a great deal of its original character. Formal in design, severely stark in appearance, the plain exterior is enhanced by a centrally located arched doorway, of great architectural beauty.
This is one of the few complete Late Federal Period doorways in the City. The doorway has a simple elliptical stone arch and consists of an eight-panelled door flanked by fluted Ionic columns, leaded glass sidelights and similar half-columns next to the stone frame, a handsome leaded glass fanlight is set above the top of the door frame.
In 1886, the interior of the wing; at the South West corner of Prince and Mott Streets, was remodeled changing it from an Orphan Asylum to a school. A school entrance was installed in the Mott Street wall at this time, and the convent remained unaltered.
Sources and further reading
This history comes from the Landmarks app’s historical catalog. Names and building uses may reflect the period described.