Comment du Jour

German Life and Architecture in 19th Century New York

A fascinating Exhibit traces the path of German Life and architecture in the 19th century through  engravings and pictures of an early immigrant community.

Compiled by Dr. Ilona Stolken, a German historian and author of the book "Das Deutsche New York" the presentation overviews the cultural, religious and commercial footprint of the once large German community in New York.

By the late 19th century New York hosted the largest group of German immigrants in the USA.

Union Square and the German Savings Bank (since demolished)

Before it became trendy, Union Square, St. Marks Place and Tomkins Square were hubs of German/American activity.

Interestingly the exhibit shows so many places on the Lower East side "Klein Deutschland" .

The German "Vereine" the clubs for singing, sport and gymnastics were a community staple.

While Yorkville on the Upper East Side is probably best known for the German community, this presentation underscores mostly forgotten neighborhoods in the city. 

And there are surprises: The German Hospital on 77th Street later became Lenox Hill Hospital!

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Brooklyn Breweries 

Once a staple in New York German breweries were in Bushwick.

In recent years Brooklyn breweries have made a big comeback!

Eurichs brewery grounds also had a shaded beer garden, another New York institution.

Serving the growing community of German brewery workers, Most Holy Trinity Church was built in the 1840's just around the block from the brewers row in Williamsburg.  It's still there!

An important theme of the exhibit is the role of the New York City Landmark Law, a vital tool to protect buildings of historic, aesthetic and cultural heritage. Many of the surviving structures have gained Landmark status, but most have been lost to time and the tide of development.

The exhibit is located at the German Consulate General in New York at 871 UN Plaza (First Avenue and 49th Street. The exhibit will be open until June 10.   
Opening hours: Monday-Friday; (9:00-5:00 PM).