4 Washington Ave Schenectady

David Hearsey Tenant House

John Baptiste Van Epps operated the “upper ferry” across the Mohawk River at the foot of Washington Avenue for many years in the 18th century.  A deed dated 1744 shows that he owned land on both sides of the street and a house approximately where No. 4 now stands.  That house, together with a number of warehouses and outbuildings, was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1819.  Two years later the land was sold to David Hearsey, the toll collector for the bridge which had by then had replaced the ferry.  He is believed to have built the house shortly after he acquired the land. Hearsey owned and lived in the brick Federal style house across the street at No. 1 Washington Avenue. The David Hearsey Tenant House is an example of vernacular Greek Revival style architecture, with the gable end facing the street, with facades of painted brick laid in an American common bond pattern.  The entry displays simplified classical detailing in the pilasters and trim around the transom window and door.