The walk to the Brooklyn Historical Society was a confusing one, but once at the corner of Pierrepont Street I immediately knew where the building was after seeing its 19th century red façade. What fallowed was the traditional “Now, how do I get in side this thing?” My expectations of the interior space was a 19th century look, so when I was led inside (to my surprise my peers had just arrived as well) I was caught off guard by the modernish display that was in the lobby. Soon after the instructors had greeted my peers and I, they began to lead us to the great reading room as they continued to educate us about the important roll of the Brooklyn Historical Society. I tried to take in all the information said, but the squeaky noise made as we walked up the wide wooden steps of the main stairwell was a distraction. Another distraction was the high ceiling and beautiful architectural detail which was in fact the antiguaish look I had first expected, none like the modern lobby display.
When instructed we would both have to sign-in and sign rule contracts I found it quit reasonable, do to the fact we where going to be dealing with historical documents for the months to come. I sat at the table and was able to then take in the beautiful scenery that was the great reading room. I continued to study the space around me, and when the workshop began I was excited to learn more on about these millions of documents and the methods used to study them. We learned every photograph ever taken for the most part has a reason/ message. The librarian stressed that an important part of reviewing historical photographer we must ask “what did the photographer want us to see”. Another key method of investigating photographs is applying are knowledge to answer some of are own questions about the document.
The Brooklyn Historical Society did not have the biggest New York City landmark impression, but it shore left one in its own way. Personally I love modern day starchitecture, but I truly appreciate buildings such as the Brooklyn Historical Society. I believe taht such landmarks be respected and persevered as they allow us to experience a portion of the time in which it was first built.
