Manhattan · NYC landmark
Former Fire Engine Company No. 53 / El Barrio Firehouse
175 East 104th Street · Manhattan, New York City
Read a former firehouse’s cast-iron entrance and flower motifs, then learn how the building moved from firefighting to community media.
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NYFE Summary
This station served the neighborhood during a period of rapid growth in northern Manhattan. Its designers reused a similar front for other city firehouses, making municipal buildings recognizable across different streets. After firefighting operations ended, the building passed to a community television organization.
The broad former apparatus opening sits within a cast-iron base decorated with sunflowers and torches. Above it, molded brick panels and terra-cotta flower medallions add texture. Small roofline pediments carry sunburst designs.
NYFE summary from the official history and visitor sources linked below.
Plan a visit
Check the operator’s current opening, admission and access information before travelling. Historic status does not guarantee public access to every interior.
Official visitor information ↗