Architecture of Longwood buildings honored
After more than a century of fighting fires, the Longwood firehouse, home of Engine Co. 73 and Hook & Ladder 42, is now a New York City Landmark.
Built in 1900, the two-story engine company building at Prospect and Kelly Street was part of a muncipal building boom that followed the consolidation of the five boroughs in 1898. It was joined by the three-story hook & ladder building next door in 1912.
The firehouse was one of five designated by the Landmarks Preservation Commission in February.
“Each of these buildings is a clear expression of civic spirit and pride of purpose that existed at the time they were built and continue to this day in our city’s municipal architecture,” said Commission Chairman Robert B. Tierney.
He praised the Fire Department for doing “an exemplary job of protecting these structures that have a vital role in protecting New Yorkers.”
Tierney said, “These buildings have stood as dignified sentinels against fires in this neighborhood for more than a century.”
By city law, the firehouse will now be protected from alterations to its exterior and from demolition.