The question “who owns the Duke House in New York?” draws attention to one of Manhattan’s last Gilded Age treasures, the Benjamin N. Duke House at 1009 Fifth Avenue. This Beaux-Arts mansion, built in 1899–1901, stands across from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, embodying New York’s opulent past. As of 2025, Mexican telecom magnate Carlos Slim owns the property, having purchased it in 2010 for $44 million. The mansion’s history, tied to the Duke family’s tobacco fortune, reflects a century of legacy and resilience against urban development.
Designed by Welch, Smith & Provot, the Duke House in New York boasts eight bedrooms, ten bathrooms, and 20,000 square feet of elegant space. Its limestone and red-brick facade, paired with ornate interiors, makes it a landmark of architectural significance. Designated a New York City landmark in 1974, it remains a private residence, unlike its counterpart, the James B. Duke House, now home to NYU’s Institute of Fine Arts. This article explores the ownership history, architectural details, and tips for appreciating this historic gem in 2025.
From its Gilded Age origins to its modern-day status, the Duke House in New York captivates history enthusiasts and architecture lovers. Join us as we uncover its past owners, current status, and ways to experience its grandeur in Manhattan’s evolving landscape.
Ownership History of the Duke House
The Duke House in New York, also known as the Benjamin N. Duke House or Duke-Semans Mansion, has a rich ownership timeline. Below is a grid summarizing key owners from 1901 to 2025.
1901–1907
Benjamin N. Duke, American Tobacco Company vice president, purchased the house.
1907–1912
James B. Duke, Benjamin’s brother, owned it until moving to his own mansion.
1912–2006
Duke family members, including Mary Semans, retained ownership.
2010–2025
Carlos Slim, Mexican billionaire, owns the mansion after buying it for $44 million.
The Duke family held the property for over a century, selling it to Tamir Sapir in 2006 for $40 million before Slim’s purchase. Slim listed it for $80 million in 2023, but it remains in his possession as of 2025.
Architectural Features of the Duke House
The Duke House in New York stands out for its Beaux-Arts design with Italian Renaissance palazzo elements. Below is a table highlighting its key architectural features.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Facade | Limestone and red-brick with ornate moldings. |
| Interior | French Renaissance style with marble fireplaces and chandeliers. |
| Layout | Seven stories, eight bedrooms, ten bathrooms, 20,000 square feet. |
| Views | Sweeping vistas of Central Park and the Met Museum. |
These elements, preserved through renovations in the 1980s and 1990s, make the mansion a standout on Fifth Avenue.
Historical Significance
The Duke House in New York, built during the Gilded Age, reflects the wealth and ambition of the Duke family, founders of the American Tobacco Company and Duke University benefactors. Its designation as a New York City landmark in 1974 and addition to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989 underscore its cultural value. Mary Semans, a Duke descendant, preserved it against demolition in the 1970s, ensuring its legacy. The mansion’s Beaux-Arts style and proximity to Museum Mile make it a rare survivor of Manhattan’s Millionaires’ Row.
Fun Fact: The house appeared in the 1971 film The French Connection, showcasing its iconic exterior.
Visiting the Duke House Area
While the Duke House in New York remains a private residence, visitors can appreciate its exterior from Fifth Avenue. Explore nearby attractions to enhance your experience:
- Metropolitan Museum of Art: View world-class art across the street.
- Central Park: Stroll through scenic paths just steps away.
- Museum Mile: Visit the Guggenheim or Jewish Museum nearby.
- Cooper-Hewitt: Explore design exhibits a short walk north.
These attractions complement the mansion’s historic charm, making it a focal point for cultural exploration in 2025.
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Photography Tips for the Duke House
Capture the grandeur of the Duke House in New York with these photography tips. Shoot from across Fifth Avenue to frame the limestone facade against Central Park. Use a wide-angle lens to include the 82nd Street entrance and its ornate details. Golden hour lighting highlights the red-brick accents, creating warm, vibrant shots.
Pro Tip: Photograph in early morning for fewer pedestrians and softer light, enhancing the mansion’s elegance.
Dressing for Your Visit
Dress comfortably for exploring the Upper East Side. Wear lightweight clothing and sturdy shoes for walking to nearby museums and Central Park. A smart-casual outfit suits dining at local cafes, ensuring comfort while admiring the Duke House in New York.
Essentials for Your Trip
Pack these items for a seamless visit to the Duke House area:
- Camera or smartphone for capturing the mansion’s facade.
- Reusable water bottle for hydration during walks.
- Map or guidebook for Museum Mile attractions.
- Sunscreen for sunny days in Central Park.
- Comfortable backpack for carrying essentials.
Preservation Efforts
The Duke House in New York owes its survival to Mary Semans, who rejected demolition offers in the 1970s. Renovations in the 1980s and 1990s restored its limestone facade and interiors, preserving its Beaux-Arts charm. These efforts ensure the mansion remains a testament to Gilded Age architecture.
Future Potential of the Duke House
The Duke House in New York could serve as a private residence, gallery, or museum, given its size and location. Its 2023 listing suggested potential for cultural use, aligning with Museum Mile’s vibe. As of 2025, it remains a private home, but its future could inspire new chapters in Manhattan’s cultural landscape.
A Timeless Legacy
The Duke House in New York, owned by Carlos Slim as of 2025, stands as a beacon of Gilded Age grandeur. Its history, from the Duke family to modern stewardship, reflects resilience and elegance. Visit the Upper East Side to witness this architectural gem and imagine its future as a cultural or residential treasure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the Duke House in New York in 2025?
Carlos Slim, a Mexican telecom magnate, owns the Benjamin N. Duke House at 1009 Fifth Avenue.
Who were the original owners of the Duke House?
Benjamin N. Duke purchased the mansion in 1901, followed by his brother James B. Duke and other family members.
Is the Duke House open to the public?
No, it remains a private residence, but you can view its exterior from Fifth Avenue.
Why is the Duke House significant?
Its Beaux-Arts design and Gilded Age history make it a New York City landmark, designated in 1974.
Can the Duke House be converted into a museum?
Yes, its size and location make it suitable for use as a gallery or museum, as noted in its 2023 listing.
