The Centennial Series

The city of Saratoga Springs was chartered on April 7, 1915. In celebration of our 100 years this summer, Roohan Realty brings you the “Centennial Series,” featuring the history of local properties – from origin to what we see today. Do you own a historic property or know one you’d like to see featured here? Submit an inquiry and our contributing writer will contact you.

History of 48 Union Avenue

Presently: Anderson-Byrne, LLC and apartments

In 1915, 48 Union Avenue was the summer cottage of Wilson W. Butler, a steel manufacturer from New York City. Butler had purchased the property back in 1905 for $14,300, and then competed the cottage in 1906. The building featured a billiards room, a gymnasium on the third floor and large stable in the back.

In 1925, Butler sold the property to Josiah G. Salisbury, a well known resident of Saratoga Springs at the time and former Supreme Court stenographer in the Fourth Judicial District. By 1930, Skidmore College had acquired the property and renamed it “Salisbury Hall,” an all-female dormitory.

Roohan Realtor, Carrie VanKloberg, was a resident of Salisbury Hall during her freshman year, and has fond memories of the building. She recalls the coveted second floor dorm rooms that opened to an expansive porch.

John T. Roohan acquired the building in 1980, and for nearly 2 decades it was the home of Roohan Realty. John also remodeled the “large stable” into four apartments.

Today, 48 Union Avenue is the law office of Anderson-Byrne, LLC, and a mixed use of business and residential condos that were developed by Michael and Margaret Roohan.