Once Criticized as ‘Vulgar,’ JC’s City Hall Is Now a Beloved Landmark

Jersey City, New Jersey, is the second most populated city in the state and the most populated in Hudson County, with nearly 230,000 people living within its 21 square miles. At the center of one of the most distinct and unique cities in the United States stands Jersey City City Hall.

Located at 280 Grove Street, City Hall stands out starkly against the surrounding brownstones and office buildings of downtown Jersey City due to its exceptional blend of classical and Victorian architecture.

The structure was completed in 1896 by architect Lewis H. Broome, who had previously worked on the New Jersey State House. Broome would go on to become the official architect for Jersey City and, eventually, for the state of New Jersey, appointed by Governor and future President Woodrow Wilson.

However, Broome’s work was not initially considered a success. Shortly after its completion, The Architectural Record commented that the “resulting edifice fairly reeks of vulgarity as reeks the new City Hall of Jersey City.” In other words, they found the new structure “vile.”

Over time, however, the building has become a cherished staple of the community, with various restoration projects taking place throughout the 20th century.

In the 1980s, Anna Cucci, wife of then-Mayor Anthony Cucci, was responsible for overseeing the renovations of the council chambers after they had been damaged by a fire in the late 1970s. She died in 1988 in Jersey City’s sister city of Cusco, Peru, after the train she was traveling on was targeted by terrorists. The council chambers have since been named in her memory.

What was once considered a “vile” piece of architecture has grown into one of the most unique landmarks in Jersey City. With its rich history and ornate design, anyone passing by Jersey City City Hall is sure to stop and admire this architectural marvel.