I’m very upset that a lovely and historic piece of architecture in my hometown of Astoria, NY, is under threat of destruction. This terra cotta decoration on 36th St. and Broadway features Neptune and other symbols of the sea, as many decades ago it used to be a Childs Restaurant, which specialized in seafood.
Later it became a Rite Aid, and now it’s a Deals store. According to the Greater Astoria Historical Society, they’re planning on destroying this whimsical work. Astoria has been undergoing massive gentrification lately, but that’s no reason to destroy one of the few architectural gems we have. Please see the Historical Society’s Facebook page for more information. Apparently they’re trying to give it landmark status, but it’s a difficult process. They recommend contacting Council Member Costa Constantinides‘ office. Please help get the word out to protect Astoria’s (and NYC’s) historic and unique architecture!
Addendum
Please consider sending the following message to Councilman Costa Constantinides at costa@council.nyc.gov. We need all the help we can get!
Dear Mr. Constantinides:
It has come to my attention that the beautiful and historic terra cotta decoration on the former Rite Aid on 36th Street and Broadway is in danger of being destroyed. This architectural detail is part of Astoria’s cultural heritage and has delighted generations of Astorians, myself included. Built as a Childs Restaurant in the 1920s, this building deserves landmark status. Astoria has undergone massive gentrification in recent years, but that is no reason to destroy one of the few architectural gems we have in this neighborhood.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Glimpses of Paradise 