By Bianca Fortis
On a clear day, firefighters in Squad Co. No. 288 can see the top of One World Trade Center from their fire house in Maspeth.
That view serves as a reminder of the firehouse’s close association to the events of Sept. 11, 2001: 19 firefighters stationed there died as a result of the terrorist attacks.
The building’s unique history is why two former Maspeth residents are working to have it designated as a landmark by the city.
They have personal reasons, as well.
“It has to do with our love of Maspeth and all things that relate to the town as we grew up knowing it,” said Steve Fisher, who came up with idea for the designation.
He stressed the building’s role as a “living memorial” to 9/11. There were 51 children who grew up without fathers because of the terrorist attacks, all of whom are connected to Squad 288 and the firehouse, he said.
The building, along with the Maspeth Memorial Park located next to it serve as a meeting place for families of the Bravest.
Maxine Fisher said she and her brother recently attended a picnic hosted at the firehouse during which the families of former and current firefighters participated.
“They broke bread together,” she said.
According to the city Landmarks Preservation Commission, landmark designation means a building has special historical, cultural or aesthetic value and that it is an important part of the city’s historical and architectural heritage. The designation can help protect a structure from inappropriate changes or demolition.
The firehouse, which was built in 1913 and first used in 1914, will celebrate its centennial next year, Steve Fisher said.
While this particular firehouse is not in any imminent danger of being torn down, the siblings have seen other fire houses around the city demolished, Maxine Fisher said.
And although Maspeth is the oldest settlement in New York City, it is home to only one landmark: a single lamppost on 53rd Avenue. The Fishers have already submitted an application to the commission to grant the special status to the building.
The commission initially rejected it, saying the firehouse lacked architectural distinction, according to Elisabeth de Bourbon, a spokeswoman for the Commission.
It does not have the features, style or other qualities of other firehouses that have been landmarked, she said. While the facade of the building may not be as ornate as others, the siblings believe it is the original one. They said they responded to the initial rejection and are waiting to hear again from the commission.
“I jumped on board with my brother’s project because of my deep and abiding love for this town,” Maxine Fisher said. “It not only houses the memories of people I love and have known and lost, but it is still a place that has the feel of the heartland.”
Reach reporter Bianca Fortis by email at bfortis@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4546.
