A well-loved historic building in College Point, New York, is slowly starting to show its face again. After nearly a year under scaffolding, parts of the Poppenhusen Institute are finally being uncovered, marking an important step in a large restoration project expected to finish by 2029.
Scaffolding Begins to Come Down
During a community meeting on April 24, Susan Brustmann, the executive director of the Poppenhusen Institute, shared exciting news with local residents. Most of the scaffolding that has surrounded the building for months was scheduled to be removed this week, especially around the north, east, and west sides. Only part of the south side still needs some finishing work.
The meeting was held in a room in the basement of the building — the same room that once housed the first free kindergarten in the United States.
A 161-Year-Old Landmark Gets New Life
Built in 1868, the Poppenhusen Institute is a piece of American history. It was founded by Conrad Poppenhusen, a German immigrant who moved to the U.S. in 1843 and became a successful businessman. He brought his family and business to College Point in 1854 and left behind a legacy of education and community support.
The current restoration is part of a full makeover that will give the building a fresh yet historically accurate look by 2029 — exactly 161 years after it was first opened.
Custom Windows for a Historic Structure
Replacing the old windows was not a simple task. The original windows had been in place since the building was first constructed, and finding suitable replacements wasn’t easy. Brustmann explained that they had to go all the way to Wisconsin to find the right company to produce the new ones.
The new windows are made of strong mahogany wood and are expected to last another 100 years. Importantly, they are also insulated to handle cold New York winters — something the original windows couldn’t do.
What’s Next for the Poppenhusen Institute?
The building is also set to receive other major upgrades, including improvements to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Masonry work is also planned to restore the building’s walls to their former glory.
“It will look like it did when it first opened,” said Brustmann, proudly speaking about the restoration plans.
The Poppenhusen Institute has already seen several updates in recent years, including the installation of an elevator, making the space more accessible for all visitors.
More Than Just a Building
The Poppenhusen Institute became a New York City landmark and was added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1976. It is more than just a building — it’s a community center that hosts educational programs, music and art classes, cultural events, and historical presentations.
Its role as a community hub continues today, and the ongoing restoration ensures that future generations can also benefit from this important place.
The slow unveiling of the Poppenhusen Institute marks a proud moment for the community of College Point. With new weather-resistant windows and more upgrades to come, this 161-year-old landmark is being restored to its former beauty. It’s not just about repairing an old building — it’s about preserving history and continuing to provide a valuable space for learning and culture.
