New York City is a place full of fascinating stories, many of which are hidden in plain sight. One of the most curious tales is that of the Hess Triangle, a tiny triangular plot of land that has become a symbol of defiance and a quirky piece of the city's rich history. Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, this odd piece of real estate is more than just a small patch of pavement—it’s a relic of a property dispute that has intrigued New Yorkers and visitors for decades.

1. The Origins of the Hess Triangle

A Property Dispute Born in the 1910s: The story of the Hess Triangle begins in the early 1910s, when the city of New York embarked on a major street-widening project to extend Seventh Avenue and build the new subway lines. This project required the city to claim a significant amount of private land, including the property where the Voorhis building stood, owned by a man named David Hess.

Hess and his family fought the city’s attempts to claim their land, but after a lengthy legal battle, the city won the right to seize most of the property under the power of eminent domain. The city demolished the Voorhis building, leaving the Hess family with what they believed to be nothing.

The Discovery of the Triangle: However, in 1922, David Hess discovered that a tiny sliver of his property—just 500 square inches, or about 25.5 square feet—had been overlooked by the city. This small triangle of land, no larger than a sidewalk tile, had not been included in the city’s plans. It was the only piece of the property that still legally belonged to the Hess family.

Rather than sell or donate the land to the city, the Hess family decided to make a statement. They commissioned a black and white mosaic, which was installed in the triangle. The mosaic reads: “Property of the Hess Estate Which Has Never Been Dedicated for Public Purposes.” This small act of defiance turned the Hess Triangle into a lasting symbol of resistance against the encroachment of government authority.

2. The Legacy of the Hess Triangle

A Symbol of Resistance: The Hess Triangle quickly became an icon of protest against eminent domain and government overreach. While the tiny plot of land had little practical value, it stood as a powerful reminder of the struggles between private property owners and the government.

Over the years, the Triangle has captured the imaginations of locals and tourists alike. Many see it as a David versus Goliath story, where a small plot of land became a beacon of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.

A Curious Piece of NYC History: Today, the Hess Triangle is one of New York City’s most peculiar landmarks. Located at the corner of Seventh Avenue South and Christopher Street in Greenwich Village, the tiny plot has become a must-see for history buffs and curious passersby.

Although it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, the Hess Triangle is a reminder of the countless stories that make up the fabric of New York City. In a city constantly growing and changing, it’s a rare example of a small piece of history that has endured against all odds.

3. The Triangle in Modern Times

Current Ownership and Use: In the years following the Hess family’s protest, the Triangle changed hands several times. Eventually, it became part of the adjacent building, which houses the Village Cigars shop. Despite its size, the Triangle remains private property and continues to be a point of pride for those who know its story.

A Hidden Gem: The Hess Triangle doesn’t have the grandeur of the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty, but it offers something equally valuable: a connection to New York’s past and the enduring spirit of its people. It’s a hidden gem in the bustling city, often overlooked but never forgotten by those who stumble upon it.

The Hess Triangle is a testament to the power of small things. Though tiny in size, it tells a big story—one of defiance, resilience, and the enduring fight for one’s rights. As you walk the streets of New York City, it’s worth taking a moment to seek out this small triangle in Greenwich Village, a unique symbol of a bygone era that still resonates today. The Hess Triangle is a reminder that even the smallest piece of land can carry the weight of history and the spirit of those who fought to protect it.