# Journal Square‘s 17th-Century Landmark Up for Auction: A Piece of Jersey City History
Jersey City’s historic landscape is about to witness a significant change as a 17th-century building in Journal Square goes under the hammer this week.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Jersey City! Look for deals here:
Jersey City Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
This remarkable property, with its rich heritage dating back to 1690, represents one of the oldest structures in the region and offers a rare opportunity for investors interested in owning a piece of authentic American colonial history.
The auction of this landmark building, located in one of the busiest city districts of Jersey City, has drawn attention from preservationists and real estate developers alike.
A Historic Gem in the Heart of Journal Square
The historic building being auctioned is managed by Grid Commercial Real Estate and encompasses 6,800 square feet of space.
Its prime location—directly across from the Journal Square PATH Station—makes it a potentially valuable acquisition for commercial development.
Property Details and Auction Information
The property, which most recently operated as Sanai’s Bar and Lounge, is currently vacant and ready for a new lease on life.
Beyond the building itself, the lot includes valuable parking space and occupies approximately one-tenth of an acre in total.
Interested bidders should note that the minimum auction bid starts at $350,000, with annual property taxes amounting to $28,000—a relatively modest sum given the property’s historical significance and strategic location.
The Newkirk House: A Window into Colonial America
According to reporting by Jersey Digs, this structure holds remarkable historical importance.
Originally known as the Newkirk House, it was constructed in 1690 by Dutch immigrant Mattheus Cornelissen Newkirk during a time when the area was called Bergen—long before it became part of modern-day Jersey City.
Architectural Features That Have Stood the Test of Time
The architectural elements of the building speak to its extraordinary longevity and craftsmanship.
Initially built as a one-story home, the structure features impressively thick walls—approximately two feet in width—composed of sandstone, limestone, and mortar.
Perhaps most remarkable are the massive wood beams that frame the building, connected by eight-inch wood pegs.
These construction techniques, typical of Dutch colonial building practices, have allowed the structure to survive for over three centuries.
What This Means for Jersey City’s Heritage and Future
The auction of this property raises important questions about historic preservation in rapidly developing urban areas. For tourists interested in things to do in Jersey City, historic buildings like the Newkirk House provide tangible connections to America’s colonial past.
These sites enhance the city’s cultural landscape. The fate of this building could impact tourism in the area, potentially affecting Jersey City hotels and other businesses that benefit from heritage tourism.
For visitors wondering where to stay in Jersey City, proximity to preserved historic landmarks often serves as a deciding factor. The building’s location also highlights the convenience of getting to Jersey City via the PATH system.
The Journal Square station serves as a major transportation hub connecting the city to Manhattan and other areas. As Jersey City continues to evolve and attract new residents and businesses, the preservation of its oldest structures becomes increasingly important for maintaining the city’s unique character and historical identity.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Jersey City! Look for deals here:
Jersey City Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Here is the source article for this story: Former Jersey City Restaurant Building Being Auctioned Off This Week
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
Plan Your Stay in Jersey City, NJ
Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
