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The BOTD is a no-frills look at interesting structures of all types and from all neighborhoods. There will be old, new, important, forgotten, public, private, good and bad. Whatever strikes our fancy. We hope you enjoy.

Address: 36 Pierrepont St, between Hicks and Willow
Name: George Hastings House
Neighborhood: Brooklyn Heights
Year Built: 1846
Architectural Style: Neo-Gothic
Architects: Richard Upjohn
Landmarked: Yes

Why chosen: Richard Upjohn is known for his splendid churches, including Trinity Church in lower Manhattan, and in Brooklyn, Grace Church, and Church of the Pilgrims, now Our Lady of Lebanon, on Remsen and Henry. He also designed a few houses, his largest, the Henry Pierrepont Mansion, next door to the White and Low mansions on Pierrepont Place, was torn down in 1946, for a children’s playground. This house is reminiscent of his churches, Neo-Gothic, and quite beautiful. The stoop is not original; it is a more modern recreation. Neo-Gothic houses are few and far between. Brooklyn Heights is lucky to have several, of which, this one is the finest.


What's Your Take? Leave a Comment

  1. Junkman007

    Gladys Underwood James did own all three. I know this because she was my grandmother and I spent a fair amount of time at Pierrepont Place as a kid.

    Family lore corresponds with the local folklore, as she did not want her view obstructed.

    Her father in law Darwin Rush James was instrumental in Moses career beginning with the NYC civil service reform in the early 20th century. This was the beginning of a long relationship between the James family and Moses.

  2. There has always been confusion who the real architect of 2-3 Pierrepont Place is. My impression was that it was Frederick A. Peterson and Upjohn was responsible for No.1.

    Does anyone know if Gladys Underwood James owned all 3 of the Pierrepont Place mansions. I’m still trying to figure out how Robert Moses got his hands on the Pierrepont Mansion to demolish it and build the playground.

    Folklore in Brooklyn Heights says that she made a deal with the devil Moses and traded the Mansion for his redirecting the BQE from Hicks to the now promenade. Personally, I find this hard to believe.