Troy is nestled along the Hudson River in upstate New York and noted for its historic architecture and its universities. Along with Schenectady and Albany, Troy completes the triumvirate that defines the Capital Region. Over the past few years and continuing today, Troy has undergone a renaissance fueled by a unique arts scene and a burgeoning tech industry coming to age in city’s vibrant and intimate downtown, unique in the Capital Region.
Dubbed the “Collar City’ for innovations in shirt design that are still in widespread use, the foundations of modern Troy, New York were forged in the success of its steel and dress shirt industries in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Troy boasted one of the strongest economies in the nation in the early 1900s, and its wealth fueled the beautiful Victorian architecture still visible in the city today. As industry faded across America, the familiar pattern of decline played out in Troy as both people and industry left the city.
Still, many seeds that were planted during the boom years have allowed Troy to be more resilient than its counterparts. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is perhaps the best example of this. The school was founded in Troy in 1824 and innovations from the prestigious institution greatly enhanced the industrial output of the city and the nation. Today, it remains one of the top technical institutes in the nation. RPI, along with Hudson Valley Community College, and Russell Sage College, make up the post-secondary schools with a presence in Troy. Russell Sage College, founded in 1916, is a shining example of Troy’s architectural tradition. Its two acre campus in downtown Troy features brownstones, walled gardens, Victorian gates, and courtyards.
Today, Troy offers an eclectic mix of restaurants, retail, and industry. RPI’s proximity has led to a blossoming video game and high tech industry and many small, creative firms have their headquarters in Troy, perching themselves in the beautifully designed buildings and using the architecture for inspiration. Local bars and restaurants have been flourishing and expanding in recent years, drawing inspiration from the influx of economic activity to downtown Troy. In the summer, Monument Park hosts a weekly outdoor farmers market, featuring local farmers, food vendors, and live music.
ABOUT THE MCCARTHY BUILDING:
The McCarthy Building, now home to the McCarthy Modern Heritage Lofts, was originally built in 1904 by Peter McCarthy during an early 20th century downtown construction boom. At its christening, the Troy Times dubbed the building “one of the most attractive in the city” as a crowd of thousands celebrated the opening of what was then one of the largest furniture stores in the country.
Due to the decline in Troy’s economy caused by the collapse of America’s Industrial Age, the building fell into disrepair and was nearly demolished in the 1960s. Residents rallied behind what was once the proudest building in the Collar City, and demolition was avoided. In 1970, the McCarthy Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Today, the McCarthy Building has become the McCarthy Modern Heritage Lofts. The meticulous renovation preserves the building’s original character, infusing the contemporary apartment amenities with historic charm. The lofts grant unparalleled access to Troy’s intimate downtown shopping and restaurant district, filled with local favorites and hidden gems alike. With one side facing Monument Square, and the other overlooking the Hudson River, this apartment building offers the best of Troy.