A Greenwich Village Landmark Shuttered After a Century in Business

Greenwich Village has lost a piece of its heart and soul.Village Cigars, the iconic smoke shop instantly recognizable for its red signage and triangular building, has closed its doors after 102 years of business [[3]]. The shop, a neighborhood institution, was situated at the front of Hess Triangle, New York City’s smallest piece of private land [[1]].

The closure marks the end of an era for a shop that had become synonymous with Greenwich Village.Village Cigars was an immutable symbol of Greenwich Village for generations. It telegraphed “New York” in films and television [[2]]. Anyone who ever took a cab down Seventh Avenue or emerged from the Christopher Street 1 train station was familiar with its presence [[2]].

The reasons behind the closure are reportedly related to a rent dispute. The loss of Village Cigars highlights the challenges faced by small businesses in New York City, notably in rapidly gentrifying neighborhoods like Greenwich Village. The shop’s prime location, while contributing to its iconic status, also made it vulnerable to rising rents.

“It’s a real shame to see Village Cigars go,” said Maria Rodriguez, a long-time Greenwich Village resident. “I’ve been buying my cigars there for over 20 years. It was more than just a store; it was a part of the neighborhood.”

More Than Just a Smoke Shop: A Cultural Icon

Village Cigars was more than just a place to buy tobacco products.It was a cultural touchstone, a visual shorthand for new York City, and a reminder of a bygone era. Its distinctive red signage and triangular shape made it a popular subject for photographers and filmmakers. The shop appeared in numerous movies and television shows, further cementing its place in popular culture [[2]].

The shop’s location in front of Hess triangle, the smallest piece of private land in New York City, added to its unique appeal [[1]]. This tiny, triangular plot of land, a holdout from a property dispute in the early 20th century, became an integral part of the Village cigars experience.

The closure of Village Cigars raises questions about the future of Greenwich Village and the preservation of its unique character. As rents continue to rise and chain stores proliferate, many fear that the neighborhood is losing its distinctive identity. The loss of Village Cigars serves as a stark reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses and preserving the cultural landmarks that make Greenwich Village so special.

What’s Next for the Iconic Location?

The future of the Village Cigars location remains uncertain. It is unclear whether another business will occupy the space or if the building will be redeveloped. Whatever the future holds,the legacy of Village Cigars will undoubtedly live on in the memories of Greenwich Village residents and visitors alike.

The closure of Village Cigars follows a trend of long-standing businesses in New York City being forced to close due to rising rents and changing consumer habits. Other recent closures include [Internal Link to Article about another NYC Business Closure] and [Internal Link to Article about the impact of Rising Rents on Small Businesses]. the city is grappling with how to preserve its unique character while also adapting to the demands of a modern economy. For more facts on the challenges facing small businesses, visit the U.S.Small Business Administration.

The loss of Village Cigars is a loss for all of New York City. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and supporting the small businesses that make our neighborhoods so vibrant and unique. Read more about the history of Greenwich Village hear.