One for the History Books
The Wyckoff-Bennett House in Manhattan Beach, the oldest building still in residence in the state, may soon be added to the city’s collection of 22 historic sites. Owner Stuart Mont, who was initially approached seven years ago by the Historic Housing Trust, a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), said the final stage of approval for the sale is this Tuesday.
Built approximately 1766, the Dutch colonial is a well-preserved example of early American architecture, beautiful woodwork and wrought iron hardware. The 18th century estate hosts a house, barn and milk room and also quartered Hessian officers during the American Revolution.
Colleen Alderson, Assistant Director of Planning for the DPR, said the objective of the purchase is to “maintain, preserve and promote” New York’s historic locations and she urged local community leaders to support the effort. If successful, the Wyckoff-Bennett House would be the fourth Brooklyn location secured by the not-for-profit Historical Housing Trust. Other locations include Park Slope’s Old Stone House, Prospect Park’s Lefferts Historic House, and the Pieter Claesen Wyckoff House Museum.
Although both parties declined to put a price tag on the house, the city was confident that enough was allocated and Mont was sure he would be given a fair price. After the sale is complete, Mont plans to be a life tenant and caretaker of the property though his landlords will pick up the tab for any major construction work once the house changes hands.
Some question the wisdom of such a purchase however, citing a budget already stretched thin by a nearly 20% citywide cut over the past two decades, according to a study by New Yorkers for Parks. As it stands, Brooklyn only receives about 10% of the city’s entire DPR capital budget allocation of $300 million, which is barely enough for community upkeep.
Teresa Scavo, chairperson for Brooklyn Community Board 15, cited several pending DPR general maintenance projects as well as the disrepair of nearby historic Gravesend Cemetery, a property currently owned by the city, as disincentive for the purchase. “It’s a waste of money,” she said since the funds will come out of the area’s other projects.
Mont is pleased with the city’s proposal though and is hopeful that the transaction will be completed this year. “I think it’s very positive,” he said. “It guarantees the house will be well protected.”