Squadron A Armory

History and architecture

The two brick towers of the Madison Avenue front of the Squadron "A" Armory evoke strong memories of a fortified medieval castle. This last remaining wall with the towers at each corner, executed in military architectural style, form an imposing structure of monumental scale and stark simplicity* Although the turrets and battlements are reminiscent of twelfth century French prototypes, the result as expressed here is a product of American inventiveness, while being, at the same time, an excellent example of a medieval castle.

The details of this structure were handled by the designer in a vigorous and rugged manner. This building as an armory represented a straightforward, honest expression of its intent and function. The curve of the arched entranceway is severe yet bold in form and shape. The towers present a solid mass, and their profiles are clearly silhouetted against the sky. Three round turrets project from the corners of each of the square towers to enrich the overall profile and to enhance its form and character. In the parapet wall at the roof line the crenel-lations (notches) are clean cut openings shapely defining the top of the building.

In 1884, a number of gentlemen interested in riding formed a private group, called the "First New York Hussars" or "First Dragoons". They adopted the full dress uniform of the 10th Hussars, a London Regiment. In 1889) under Captain Roe, the unit of 53 men became troop "A" and was mustered into the N.G.S. of New York. By 1895 the unit became large enough to be divided into two troops, and became Squadron "A".

That same year, they took possession of the new armory and on January 31, 1896, the formal opening of the Armory took place with a reception and ball. The volunteer unit of "Troop A" saw service in the Spanish American War. As a National Guard unit Squadron "A" responded to riot duty in Buffalo - 1892, in Brooklyn - 1895 and at the Croton Reservoir in 1900. Squadron "A" was called into Federal Service in World War I and was reorganized as the 105th Machine Gun Battalion on October 13, 1917.