What Are These Gas Lamps Doing Here?

While once ubiquitous, gas lamps are no longer an everyday sight on the streets of Brooklyn. A curious baker’s dozen row of them stretches along the north side of Poplar Street from Henry Street and then around the corner along Hicks Street right up to the BQE — creating an interesting visual juxtaposition.

Before construction of the BQE tore out a chunk of Poplar Street, the view would have been of 19th century structures, not a concrete ramp.

In 1987, after decades in bureaucratic limbo, the surviving buildings on Poplar Street between Henry and Hicks were restored and transformed into condos. The urban renewal project included restoration of 57 Poplar Street, the former Brooklyn Children’s Aid Society Orphanage, by architects Wids DeLaCour and David Hirsch.

Infill construction on the block, at 61-75 Poplar Street, was designed by by Charles A. Platt Partners. These nostalgic gas lights were installed as part of the renewal project, and responsibility for maintaining the lamps falls to the property owners.

Related Stories

• 57 Poplar Street
• Building of the Day: 385 Henry Street
• Room for a Horse: The Charm of the Carriage House
  

Email tips@brownstoner.com with further comments, questions or tips. Follow Brownstoner on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.