Historians consider The Ketcham Farmhouse (located at 190-21 Hollis Avenue) to be one of the most significant remaining mid-19th century farmhouses still standing in New York City. The building, which is at least 180 years old, has been recorded in the AIA Architectural Guide to NYC because of its elaborately ornament Italianate architecture 

The farmhouse was purchased in 1849 by David Ketcham who is from one of the most important colonial families on Long Island. He is considered to be oldest resident of Hollis as his farm was used to develop the town of Hollis.  He sat on the board of directors of the town of Jamaica, was land assessor, school commissioner and founded the local church St. Gabriel's. 

Another famous person to live in the home was the Original “Gibson Girl” a well-known model and celebrity in her time lived in the home from 1924 till her death in 1953. 

The designation of the Ketcham Farmhouse as a landmark is important to the community of Hollis, as it is one of the most important historic buildings in Southeastern Queens.

If demolished, the archeological research on the indigenous first people, African Americans and the potential connection to the underground railroad will be lost forever because the site will be permanently disturbed.

It addition, the community will lose the parklike quality of its grounds because it will be replaced by multi-level dwellings which will increase the demands on the sewer system. and ruin the ambiance of Hollis. 

This property could serve the community as a museum, needed green space, bird sanctuary, community garden and family history center to provide access to genealogical research tools.

Find out more about the Ketcham house at:

•  theketchamhouse.org
• tinyurl/theketchamhouse