688 North Broadway

in Saratoga Springs

History of 688 North Broadway – Built in 1877, this property was most likely the first spec house built in Saratoga Springs by Abram Viele and John Darrow. It was sold in 1879 to Carrie Hamilton, who worked at Dr. Hamilton’s Medical Institute located at that time at 44 Franklin Street. Built as a summer cottage, for decades it was only occupied in the summer months.

Sold to Ella Southgate in 1882 who was a frequent summer visitor, and again in 1907 to Col. Edward M. Green of Troy, New York. Col. Green was in the iron and steel business who only summered in Saratoga until 1915 when he renovated the cottage into a year round home and remained in the Green family until 1931.

In 1931, ownership was transferred to Mac Finn, owner of Mac Finn Drug Store, Spring St. Restaurant, and a VP of Saratoga National Bank. As this writer had assumed for many years that MacFinn was a surname, which was incorrect. Mr. Finn and subsequent owners rented this house and in the 1940s was listed as Pines Tourist Home.

Private ownership began in 1950 when Alex and Florence Sussman purchased this home and continues today. Last sold in 2005 for $885,000, this 3 story 5252 sq. ft. Victorian has 5 bedrooms and 4 ½ baths. The exterior has detailed and decorative wood trim around the windows and façade. The grounds and wraparound porch are reminiscent of the magnificent Saratoga cottages.

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? Submit an inquiry and our contributing writer will contact you.