Engine 228 is a New York City landmark

March 20, 2013 Denise Romano
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A firehouse in Sunset Park was designated a landmark by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC).

Engine Co. 228, located on 39th Street off of Fourth Avenue, is a two-story firehouse that was completed in 1891. Originally known as Engine Co. 28, the building was part of the Brooklyn Fire Department, which was absorbed into the Fire Department of New York after the five boroughs were consolidated in 1898.

The firehouse’s architecture is Romanesque Revival. It was constructed by William J. Moran who also helped build the former Domino Sugar plant on Kent Avenue and the Dime Savings Bank on DeKalb Avenue in Williamsburg, both landmarks.

According to LPC, “Framed by brownstone quoins, the façade of the modestly scaled firehouse is comprised of a large central arch, flanked by two smaller ones, all three of which are made of reddish-brown sandstone and red brick. The second story features ornamented arched windows and a denticulated frieze.”

LPC Chairman Robert Tierney said, “Engine Co. 228 retains a commanding presence that’s conveyed the reliability and strength of the FDNY for more than 100 years. It’s also an imposing showcase for an architectural style that had an important role in shaping firehouse design at the end of the 19th century.”

At the same time, four other firehouses also received landmark status, including one in Windsor Terrace, one in Queens and two in the Bronx.

“FDNY Firehouses are important symbols of bravery, safety and service in the communities they protect,” said Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano, “With these latest landmark designations, the Landmarks Preservation Commission has not only recognized the beautiful architecture and rich histories of these firehouses, they’ve also paid tribute to every FDNY firefighter who has called them home for more than a century.”

Back in October, Simeon Bankoff, executive director of the Historic Districts Council, testified on behalf of the firehouses at a hearing.

“HDC supports the landmarking of these four architecturally distinctive firehouses.  They stand as handsome reminders of the city’s investment in the wellbeing of its residents,” he said. “Like historic schools and libraries, firehouses continue to be centers of neighborhood character and life just as they were more than a century ago, and their preservation serves us all well.”

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