On the block below, where the Astor House was built later, were the homes of John G.Coster, David Lydig, and J.J.Astor.

It was one of the most magnificent dwellings of the town, and there Hone entertained not only the distinguished men of New York, but also such Americans of country-wide fame as Daniel Webster, Henry Clay, and Harrison Gray Otis; and such old-world visitors as Charles Dickens, Lord Morpeth, Captain Marryat, John Galt, and Fanny Kemble.

He had children growing up--his marriage to Catherine Dunscomb had taken place in 1801, when he was in his twenty-second year--and for the benefit of the young people his was practically open house.

Public and private honours were thrust upon him.

An assistant alderman from 1824 to 1826, in the latter year he was appointed Mayor.