A historic Queens property once owned by Lena Horne is already moving toward its next chapter. The legendary performer’s former home in St. Albans is now under contract, with a deal reportedly nearing its $1.22 million asking price, signaling strong interest in one of New York City’s most culturally significant neighborhoods.
Listing broker Matthew Wynter of Brown Harris Stevens told The New York Post that the Tudor-style residence—located at 112-45 178th Street in the Addisleigh Park Historic District—quickly drew attention after hitting the market in November.
While Wynter didn’t provide further details on the potential buyer, the six-bedroom, 2.5-bath home spans roughly 2,287 square feet and blends preserved historic details with modern updates, including hardwood floors, crown moldings, and a wood-burning fireplace.
Horne’s name alone carries weight, but the home’s location adds another layer of significance. Addisleigh Park, part of the St. Albans neighborhood, earned its nickname as the “African-American Gold Coast” during the mid-20th century.
The area became a destination for accomplished Black entertainers, athletes, and professionals at a time when housing discrimination limited where they could live.
Notable St. Albans residents included Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, Jackie Robinson, and Joe Louis, and their presence turned the neighborhood into a rare concentration of Black excellence and upward mobility.
Wynter noted that Horne herself was among the early Black homeowners in the area, reinforcing the neighborhood’s legacy. That history remains visible today, both in the preserved architecture and in the stories passed down by longtime residents.
The home dates back to 1935 and was purchased by Horne in 1946; she lived there for nearly two decades before relocating to Manhattan. She remained a New York City resident for the rest of her life, passing away in 2010 at age 92. The current owner, Camille Chin-Kee-Fatt, acquired the property in 2004 from a family that had purchased it directly from Horne.
When the home first hit the market, Chin-Kee-Fatt recalled discovering its connection to Horne only after seeing the listing. “That sent it over the top for me,” she said at the time, explaining that it was the only house she chose to view.
