Anson Flats
816-894 Fifth NW, 1910, Anders Anson

Anson Flats, built in 1910, was the oldest remaining apartment building in Albuquerque. It was built and originally owned by Anders W. Anson, a general contractor and cement supplier. Anson constructed several other significant Albuquerque buildings: the Alvarado Hotel, Santa Fe Railroad Depot, Rosenwald Building and the Old Post Office at 4th and Gold.

At the time these apartments were built, Albuquerque was growing due to the impact of the railroad, New Mexico was nearing statehood and new building materials and styles were being imported from the East. Anson's design is reminiscent of row houses in eastern cities such as New York and Baltimore. The building's exterior appearance, highlighted by the rough-textured concrete walls and columns and repeating pattern of porches, made a strong statement about Albuquerque's interest in being thought of as more than a sleepy railroad town in a western territory. While many of the houses built at this time around downtown reflect this interest, Anson is a singular example of this influence on multi-family design.

Anson Flats was severely damaged by fires in 1989, 1992, 1993, and 1995. Its landmark designation was initiated in response to a demolition threat. The building was in the process of renovation and rehabilitation when a final fire damaged the building beyond repair.

The building was finally demolished in 1996, and a new housing has been erected in its place called the Anson Townhomes.