SPRING 2016
Streetscapes Photo Comparisons: The study of streetscapes is a crucial part of conservation work. Streetscapes can provided a wealth of information about the characteristic features of a neighborhood beyond what can be gleaned at the level of individual buildings. As part of this Studio, a streetscape analysis was performed by comparing historic streetscape photographs with current streetscape photos to observe change in conditions over time. Historic and current photographs of each streetscape were placed side-by-side for comparison. The square border of the historic image was then overlayed onto the present image, visually aligning the two photographs and making any differences they display all the more apparent. Changes observed in the photo comparison included primary material changes, commercial space allocation changes, and an increased number of trees in the neighborhood. Streetscape Photo Collections: The historic streetscape photos used in the study were taken mainly from the Brooklyn Historical Society Morrell collection (online) and the Landmarks Preservation Commission Greenbooks designation photos for Boerum Hill and Cobble Hill.1 The BHS Collection comprises more than 2,600 photographs of buildings and street scenes in Brooklyn dating from the 1950s through the 1970s. The collection was donated by John D. Morrell, former Assistant Librarian for the Long Island Historical Society (Brooklyn Historical Society).2 Seventy five images from the collection were selected for use in the study. Photographs were specifically chosen which depicted only the most relevant character-defining features of a particular area. For instance, photographs of historic storefronts were chosen to represent commercial Atlantic Avenue, while photos that captured trees, sidewalks, and architectural styles were selected for areas with a more residential character like that of Boerum Hill.
1 Brooklyn Historic Society, http://brooklynhistory.pastperfect-online.com/35872cgi/mweb.exe?request=continue, accessed by March 31, 2016. 2 Brooklyn Historical Society, Brooklyn Online Resource: John D. Morrell Photograph Collection at BHS, http://whereyoucamefrom.blogspot.com/2011/06/brooklyn-online-resource-john-d-morrell.html, http://www.brooklynhistory.org/ blog/tag/john-d-morrell/, accessed by March 31, 2016.
106 Changes in the Built and Social Fabric
Streetscape Source: John D. Morrell Collection
Streetscape Source: John D. Morrell Collection
