Brooklyn, New York (September 2005) – The Bedford-Stuyvesant Annual House Tour has historically been a draw for thousands of visitors. Now in its 27th year, the Brownstoners will once again showcase a collection of the community’s finest brownstones and limestones. This year’s theme, “Embracing the Spirit of Community,” promises to be a declaration of the vibrant familial ambiance that has traditionally been rooted in Bed-Stuy. The self-guided tour will begin at the historic “Old” Boys High School, located at 832 Marcy Avenue, near the corner of Putnam Avenue, from 11 A.M. – 4 P.M., rain or shine.
Attendees will experience, firsthand, the luxury and sophistication embodied within these brownstones and limestones, some of which date back as far as the 18th century. They will have the opportunity to speak directly with homeowners to learn about restoration, landscaping, general maintenance and many more of the practicalities of owning a brownstone. Displaying both fully renovated homes and works-in-progress, the tour has traditionally proven to be an invaluable experience for homeowners and homebuyers alike. Visitors will receive a Tour Brochure at 11 A.M. sharp. The tour brochure is a handy keepsake and reference tool that documents the unique story behind each home on tour.
Visitors can participate in the Homeownership Workshop from 9:00 to 10:30 A.M. Here, they can learn how to finance the renovation or purchase of a home in Bed-Stuy. There will also be the annual “Bed-Stuy Bazaar,” which will include vendors of homemade arts and crafts, fine artisans and more. The bazaar will take place from 10:30 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. This year, tourgoers are in for an additional treat as the tour will be part of a premiere, community-wide celebration, “Bed-Stuy Alive.” This event will include art gallery/studio struts and special meals at participating local restaurants.
“Embracing the Spirit of Community,” speaks volumes about the mission of the Brownstoners of Bedford-Stuyvesant, which has faithfully served this Brooklyn community for the past 27 years. Dedicated not only to instilling pride in Bed-Stuy residents, this nonprofit, volunteer civic association has performed a variety of community services which spans from literacy programs to their annual Tax Lien Project. In fact, proceeds from the house tour will benefit the McDonald/Glee Memorial Scholarship Fund, which awards scholarships to college-bound graduates of Boys and Girls High School.
All tickets for the 27th Annual House Tour of Bedford-Stuyvesant are $20 and can be purchased on the day of the tour or in advance at the following locations:
Brownstone Books, 409 Lewis Avenue, (718)-953-7328
Lewis Gallery, 525 Atlantic Avenue, (718)624-8372
Juke Joint Juice Jaffe, 1585 Fulton Street, (718)778-0777
All State Insurance – 499 Atlantic Avenue, (718)422-0700
It is advisable tourgoers arrive early, as recent tours have sold out with over 1,000 guests. Come on Home to Bed-Stuy!