Historic Miami Home for Sale: A Rare Legacy in Spring Garden
Miami's real estate market has a unique opportunity for potential buyers: the chance to own a historic home with a rich cultural and architectural heritage. Located in the picturesque Spring Garden neighborhood, this two-story residence has been in the same family for over 100 years and is now available for $2.75 million. The house, previously owned by musician and civil rights activist Ruth Greenfield, is a notable piece of Miami's history, both as a home and as a cultural landmark.
The Legacy of Ruth Greenfield
Ruth Greenfield was not only a talented musician but also a dedicated civil rights advocate. She is perhaps best known for founding the Fine Arts Conservatory in 1951, one of the first racially integrated arts schools in the Southern United States. Greenfield's conservatory provided music, dance, drama, and visual arts education to students of all races at a time when racial segregation was still widespread. She also worked as the director of the conservatory and taught piano, contributing significantly to Miami's cultural landscape.
In addition to her work in education, Ruth Greenfield was a passionate advocate for the arts, and her commitment to equality and integration helped shape the community she lived in. The Fine Arts Conservatory was one of the first steps toward breaking down racial barriers in the region, pre-dating the desegregation of public schools in Miami-Dade County. For those familiar with Miami’s cultural history, Ruth Greenfield’s name is synonymous with progress and inclusivity.
Spring Garden: A Historic Neighborhood
The Spring Garden neighborhood, where Ruth Greenfield’s former residence is located, is one of Miami’s most charming and historically significant areas. Designated as a historic district in 1997, Spring Garden is known for its tree-lined streets and a collection of well-preserved homes from the early 20th century. The neighborhood features a blend of architectural styles, including Craftsman, Mission, and Streamline Moderne homes that were built between the 1920s and 1940s.
The house at 752 NW Seventh Street Rd. is considered a contributing property to the Spring Garden Historic District. Its location within this area adds another layer of value and prestige to the home, as it connects to Miami’s early history and urban development. Spring Garden’s unique character, combined with the home's rich cultural background, makes it a truly one-of-a-kind property in the heart of the city.
The Property: A Timeless Home
Built in 1916, Ruth Greenfield’s home is one of the oldest residences in the Spring Garden neighborhood. The house was purchased by her grandparents in 1923, cementing the family’s long connection to the property. Spanning 2,958 square feet, the Arts and Crafts-style home offers five spacious bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a powder room. Its design features multiple living and lounging areas, including a cozy library, and retains many original architectural elements that showcase its historic charm.
The property sits on a lot slightly larger than others in the area, making it a premium offering in the neighborhood. The house's unique style and historical significance are reflected in its price: listed at $2.75 million, the home is priced at approximately $930 per square foot, significantly higher than a comparable property at 900 NW Seventh Street Rd. that sold for $2.35 million in 2024. The comparable property, which was slightly larger in square footage (3,108 sq. ft.), was priced at $756 per square foot. The premium price for Greenfield’s residence reflects both the larger lot and the property's deep cultural and architectural value.
Insights
Why is the Fine Arts Conservatory important in Miami’s history?
The Fine Arts Conservatory, founded by Ruth Greenfield, played a pivotal role in integrating the arts in the South. It was one of the first racially integrated arts schools, providing students of all racial backgrounds with access to music, dance, drama, and visual arts education. This cultural institution laid the groundwork for the future of integrated education and was an essential part of the civil rights movement in Miami.
What makes the Spring Garden neighborhood historically significant?
Spring Garden is one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in Miami and was designated as a historic district in 1997. The area is known for its diverse architectural styles and is home to homes built between the 1920s and 1940s. Its preservation as a historic district showcases the development of Miami during the early 20th century, making it a significant part of the city’s cultural and architectural heritage.
What makes Ruth Greenfield's home unique?
This property is exceptional due to its rich family history, architectural significance, and the connection to Ruth Greenfield's legacy. As one of the first homes built in the Spring Garden neighborhood, it reflects the area’s early development and holds cultural importance, especially given Greenfield's contributions to the arts and civil rights. The residence’s preservation of original architectural features adds to its historical value.
How does the price of this property compare to others in the area?
The listing price of $2.75 million for the Greenfield residence is above the average for the area. While a comparable property at 900 NW Seventh Street Rd. recently sold for $2.35 million, the Greenfield home commands a higher price due to its historical significance, larger lot size, and unique architectural style. Priced at $930 per square foot, the home reflects its premium status in the Miami real estate market.
What can potential buyers expect from the property?
Prospective buyers can look forward to owning a piece of Miami’s history, with a beautifully preserved Arts and Crafts-style home that has been passed down through generations. The house offers ample living space, with five bedrooms and several lounging areas, and is located in a neighborhood rich in history and culture. The property also offers modern amenities while retaining its historical charm.
Conclusion
The listing of Ruth Greenfield’s former home presents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of Miami’s cultural and architectural history. With a unique blend of heritage, style, and location, the property at 752 NW Seventh Street Rd. is not just a home but a legacy. For those interested in both the cultural and architectural significance of Miami, this residence represents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of the city’s past while contributing to its future.
