MXB Virtual Tour - New York City Department of City Planning

Department of City Planning - "Shaping the City's Future"

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Projects & Proposals > Manhattan > Virtual Tour of Malcolm X Boulevard

Archived Content

This page describes Malcolm X Boulevard as it appeared in 2001. The tour was developed as part of the Malcolm X Boulevard Streetscape Enhancement Project. These pages are no longer being updated.

43. Lafayette Theater Historic Area
From W. 130th to W. 133rd Streets from Malcolm X Blvd. to Frederick Douglass Boulevard

This area is currently under consideration for designation as a historic district by the Landmarks Commission. Between 1915 and 1932, the Lafayette Theatre served as a venue for various black stock acting companies when there were few serious roles for black performers on Broadway. A large portion of three-story brownstone rowhouses in Central Harlem are found in this area. Similar in design, scale and scope, these homes illustrate the impact well-designed Renaissance Revival rowhouses in concentration can make in an urban setting. The Williams Christian Methodist Episcopal Church occupies the former Lafayette Theatre at 2225 Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Boulevard, between W. 131st and W. 132nd Street, on the east side.

Brownstones along 131st Street
photo of brownstones along 131st street

Williams Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
photo of williams christian methodist church

Return to 127th - 132nd Streets Index Map

Return to the Start of the Malcolm X Boulevard Tour