Please Do Not Allow Any Construction on the Abraham Manee-Seguine Homestead Property! Town houses facing Purdy Place will block the view of Prince's Bay, and degrade and devalue the historicism of this house! Your own organization, The Landmarks Preservation Commission of New York City, has stated in its own report, dated September 11, 1984, that: "From its porches one looks out over the marsh grasses over the tidal wetlands to the south of Purdy Place. Beyond lie the waters of Prince's Bay, the broad sweep of its shore and -- in the far distance -- Raritan Bay and New Jersey's Atlantic Highlands. It is a setting and a view that retains its power to link the presentday viewer with those who perceived this same vista more than three hundred years ago." There are considerable connections to the history with oyster fishing in the surrounding area that would be marred if modern construction is allowed on the property. The sloping lawn and historic trees should be kept exactly the way they are now for future generations to enjoy the views from the south facing porches, once they are restored. What would be the purpose of the porches if they face the backyards of condos!! Facts: Address: 509 Seguine Ave Princes Bay, Staten Island, New York 10309 Ranking Red Condition Poor Architect/Builder Unknown Year Built 1670/1820 Predominant Materials Stone NYC Designation Status Landmark National Designation Status Lot Width 144 Lot Depth 168 Building Width 30 Building Depth 25 Zoning R3-2 We urge you to allow the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation to purchase the structure and the property it is situated on, in total, to preserve the house and its rural setting for future generations! Sincerely,