Revolutionary Roots: Uncovering the Military History Behind Village Street Names

While George Washington’s name is ubiquitous across New York City, he is far from the only figure from the American Revolution commemorated in the street grid of Greenwich Village. A recently published digital resource from Village Preservation offers a deeper look at the military commanders whose names define the neighborhood's geography.

Many of these street designations date back to 1799, a year when city officials renamed several thoroughfares to honor key Revolutionary figures. Among these is Sullivan Street, which replaced the former Locust Street to commemorate Major General John Sullivan. Sullivan, a delegate to the Continental Congress, is noted for his pivotal role in several campaigns, though his legacy remains a subject of historical debate due to his 1779 expedition against Haudenosaunee nations.

Similarly, Horatio Street serves as a tribute to General Horatio Gates. While Gates is celebrated for the American victory at the Battle of Saratoga—a turning point that secured French support—the street naming is considered unusual for using the general's first name rather than his surname.

Other streets reflect the city's complex relationship with its military past. MacDougal Street, for instance, honors Major General Alexander McDougall, a prominent merchant and leader of the Sons of Liberty who eventually commanded West Point. The street name features a simplified spelling of the general’s surname, a variation that also extends to the nearby MacDougal Alley.

Lafayette Street offers a different historical timeline. Originally designated as Lafayette Place in 1826 to honor the Marquis de La Fayette, the route was later extended and renamed in the early 20th century. The area also retains a connection to the French general through the landmarked Colonnade Row, a series of rowhouses named after his estate in France.

The full scope of these historical connections, including the stories behind figures like Nathanael Greene and William Thompson, is now available via the organization's interactive map. By linking local infrastructure to the broader narrative of the Continental Army, the project provides residents and visitors with a new lens through which to view the familiar streets of Lower Manhattan.