Conservancy Tours Erasmus Hall Academy Building: Rare 18th Century Survivor
Brooklyn’s early history is ingrained in the walls of one of its oldest buildings—Erasmus Hall Academy, constructed in 1787. But this important landmark needs restoration and a reuse if it is to continue to remind students and Flatbush residents of the area’s proud history.
The Conservancy, and preservation architect Dan Allen, toured the former school on January 25 at the invitation of alumni who want to save the building.
The clapboard-sided, Federal style building is surrounded by Erasmus High School, which counts Barbara Streisand and Neil Diamond among its notable alumni. This venerable academy served students in the Flatbush area for 200 years. More recently, it housed school offices and a museum dedicated to the school’s long and colorful history. But it has stood vacant for 10 years.
Despite some leaks, Allen said the building is generally in sound condition. But a full conditions survey is needed to determine stabilization or restoration priorities and costs.
The Conservancy is reaching out to the School Construction Authority to see if we could cooperate on a conditions survey and re-use plan.
