Part 5/14:
Plant and his wife Nellie moved in around 1905 into this impressive estate, becoming part of a community that included Vanderbilt, Astor, and other elite families. However, as Manhattan evolved, the neighborhood’s character changed drastically. The once-exclusive residential enclave progressively transformed into a hub of commerce, retail, and hospitality. By 1916, Plant foresaw the decline of his Fifth Avenue residence, which was gradually overtaken by hotels and shops.
The Strategic Sale and Pearl Necklace Deal
Amid this change, Plant began constructing a new, more secluded mansion at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 86th Street—farther uptown, away from the bustling commercial zone. This move was strategic, aiming for a tranquil estate aligned with his refined tastes.