The History
The Dakota is one of New York City's most storied buildings. Completed in 1884, it was the first luxury apartment building on the Upper West Side, so far from the fashionable neighborhoods of the time that critics joked it might as well be in the Dakota Territory. The name stuck. With its Gothic turrets, copper dormers, and iron gates, The Dakota became Manhattan's most prestigious address.
John Lennon and Yoko Ono moved into The Dakota in 1973, eventually owning multiple apartments in the building. After five years away from music to raise his son Sean, Lennon had returned to the studio in 1980 to record "Double Fantasy," his comeback album. By December 1980, at age 40, Lennon was energized and planning future projects.
What Happened
On the afternoon of December 8, 1980, Mark David Chapman waited outside The Dakota with a copy of "Double Fantasy" and a .38 caliber revolver. When Lennon emerged around 5 p.m. to head to a recording session, Chapman asked him to sign the album. Lennon obliged. Photographer Paul Goresh captured the moment on film.
Lennon and Ono returned from the Record Plant studio at approximately 10:50 p.m. As they walked through the archway entrance, Chapman called out "Mr. Lennon?" and fired five hollow-point bullets. Four struck Lennon in the back and left shoulder. Lennon staggered into the guard booth and collapsed, saying "I'm shot."
He was rushed to Roosevelt Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. He was 40 years old. Chapman remained at the scene, reading "The Catcher in the Rye" until police arrived. The news spread across the world in minutes. Thousands gathered outside The Dakota in an impromptu vigil that lasted days.
Key Facts
The Building (1884)
The Dakota is a National Historic Landmark. Famous residents have included Lauren Bacall, Leonard Bernstein, and Judy Garland. It was featured in the 1968 horror film "Rosemary's Baby."
Strawberry Fields
The 2.5-acre memorial in Central Park, directly across from The Dakota, was dedicated on what would have been Lennon's 45th birthday. The "Imagine" mosaic draws millions of visitors annually.
The Killer
Mark David Chapman pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to 20 years to life. He has been denied parole 13 times and remains incarcerated.
What's There Now
Visit The Dakota & Strawberry Fields
Address: 1 West 72nd Street, New York, NY
Status: The Dakota remains a private residential building. The exterior is viewable from the street.
Strawberry Fields: The memorial in Central Park is open year-round, directly across from The Dakota. The "Imagine" mosaic is located at the 72nd Street entrance to the park.
Tip: December 8 draws the largest crowds, with candlelight vigils and musical tributes throughout the day.
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