The Octagon

Historic Landmark and a Striking Architectural Contrast The Octagon is one of the most distinctive and visually impressive landmarks on Roosevelt Island. Its historic octagonal stone tower has a strong presence from the outside and is worth seeing from different angles. The surrounding grounds and open setting make it especially interesting to photograph. Completed in 1839 and designed by Alexander Jackson Davis, the Octagon originally served as the main entrance and administrative center of the New York City Lunatic Asylum, its official historical name at the time. The terminology reflects the language of that era and is no longer appropriate today. The surviving historic tower was later restored and incorporated into a larger modern residential complex. I find the contrast between the nineteenth-century octagonal structure and the surrounding residential buildings especially striking. It creates a rare and memorable combination of preserved history, distinctive architecture, and present-day urban life. I have viewed and photographed the property from publicly accessible outdoor areas, so I cannot comment on the interior or on the residential experience. From the exterior, I find the Octagon an impressive and worthwhile stop for anyone interested in Roosevelt Island’s history, architecture, and landmarks.

Nice spot!

I spent a couple of days walking around the island. After walking up to see the Lighthouse at the northern tip of the island, then I walked south on the Queens side. When I got to the signs for the Octagon, I walked into to check it out. Checking the history before I got here helped my fully appreciate what is left. The Octagon building was built in 1839 as the main entrance to the infamous lunatic asylum on the island. The asylum was torn down a long time ago but fortunately they saved the Octagon. It is now a part of a modern apartment building. A great bit of New York history.