I
n the heart of Queens' Addisleigh Park historic district, a five-bedroom colonial residence is now available for rent at $5,000 per month. This 3,000-square-foot gem was once home to baseball legend Jackie Robinson during his Brooklyn Dodgers glory days and holds a piece of American sports and civil rights heritage.
The move from Brooklyn in 1949 marked a new chapter for the Robinson family as they sought more space for their growing brood. They joined a vibrant community that had begun to flourish despite its origins as a racially restricted suburb. St. Albans' transformation was sparked by the Supreme Court's 1917 ruling striking down state-enforced segregation, and further fueled by the 1948 Shelley v. Kraemer decision deeming restrictive covenants unenforceable.
As Nadine Morency-Mohs of Jaymore Realty LLC notes, "There was a restrictive covenant on the deeds where homeowners were not allowed to sell to anyone outside of the white race." However, this act of defiance and the court ruling paved the way for black families like the Robinsons to settle in St. Albans.
The neighborhood became a cultural hub, attracting jazz legends Count Basie and Fats Waller in the 1940s. The Robinsons arrived in 1949, following Dodgers teammate Roy Campanella, who had settled there a year earlier. Other notable residents included Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald, John Coltrane, James Brown, and heavyweight champ Joe Louis.
The home's current owner, who purchased it in 2005 for $525,000, is now downsizing after their children moved out. The residence has been renovated over the years while retaining its original layout and woodburning fireplaces. Addisleigh Park commands premium prices, with homes averaging under $1 million, but recently trading above that threshold.
The rental features a formal living room with a fireplace, a dining room, a galley kitchen, a sunroom, and a sprawling backyard – steps from parks and schools. The neighborhood is designated as a historic district and boasts a tight-knit community with holiday events and monthly meetings. Easy access to transportation is an added perk, with the Long Island Railroad just a short walk away.
As a piece of American history, this residence offers a rare chance to lease a home that played a significant role in Jackie Robinson's life and legacy. The property's unique blend of history, culture, and community makes it an attractive option for those seeking a truly special living experience.
