The Conservancy recently awarded a $13,950 grant to the Poppenhusen Institute in Queens for immediate repairs to its mansard roof and wooden cornice. The Institute has served as an educational hub for its College Point community since it opened in 1868.
The prominent building is a City landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places. The Conservancy has a long history working with the Institute. Earlier grants and loans helped restore the wood entry portico, install fire protection in the building, and provide a technical assessment of the unique cast stone materials that make up the exterior.
The Institute is undertaking a phased facade restoration project with New York City’s Department of Design & Construction. The first phase is currently underway to install replacement windows across all four facades as well as addressing repairs to the window dormers.
When the building was scaffolded, the team discovered wooden trim and flashing elements that had been lost on the mansard roof allowing the roof rafters to be exposed to water. The Conservancy’s grant will address the pressing holes on the roof to make the necessary repairs to close the roof envelope and secure a failing section of the wooden cornice.
The Institute serves as a cultural center highlighting local history, provides arts and enrichment classes, as well as a meeting place for civic associations and cultural performances.
The building was part of our 50th Anniversary Celebration online exhibition.
