In July 2015, a beautifully preserved residence at the Dakota hit the market with an initial asking price of $3.6 million. After a price reduction to $2.93 million, the historic co-op found a buyer who ultimately paid $2.84 million. The Observer reports that this stunning two-bedroom home was owned by actor Carroll O’Connor, famed for his role as Archie Bunker on “All in the Family,” until his death in 2001. His wife, Nancy Fields O’Connor, maintained ownership until her passing in 2014.
This second-floor beauty boasts 14-foot ceilings and south-facing windows that flood the space with natural light. The open living and dining room area features one of the home’s two hand-carved wood-burning fireplaces, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Both bedrooms come with en-suite baths and offer extra space that can accommodate a table, desk, or sitting area. Remarkably, the property also includes a large basement studio with a full marble bath, which can serve as an art studio, home office, or additional storage.
Carroll O’Connor, who lived in the Bronx, Elmhurst, Queens, and Forest Hills before moving to the Upper West Side, was renowned for his portrayal of the often-racist curmudgeon Archie Bunker. Despite his well-known liberal leanings, his persona gave the Dakota co-op board pause, and they required him to submit letters of reference before allowing him to move in.
The new owners of this historic home will enjoy its original features, including huge arched windows with marble sills and built-in shutters, blended patterned hardwood floors, extra tall solid wood doors with original fixtures and etched glass, distinct moldings, and the original sunburst copper grills.
