Imagine bustling activity during World War II here at the Brooklyn Army Terminal. This wasn’t just any warehouse complex. It was the United States’ largest military supply base.
Welcome to the Brooklyn Army Terminal. This place played a crucial role in American history. Let’s uncover its secrets.
Designed by Cass Gilbert, the Brooklyn Army Terminal was innovative. Construction began in 1918 and finished in 1919. It introduced the era’s largest poured concrete structure. It also featured a huge elevator installation. There were 96 centrally controlled push-button elevators.
During World War II, the Brooklyn Army Terminal was vital. Over 3 million troops and 37 million tons of military supplies passed through. Imagine the constant movement of soldiers and equipment. The Brooklyn Army Terminal employed 56000 military and civilian personnel. It was a city within a city.
Elvis Presley even shipped off to Germany from here in 1958. He greeted fans and photojournalists before his departure. The Brooklyn Army Terminal remained a Port of Embarkation until 1966.
The Brooklyn Army Terminal is made up of two huge warehouses and three covered piers. Building B has an atrium with staggered balconies. This simplified cargo loading and unloading. Third-floor skybridges interconnect all the buildings. This allowed for easy movement of materials.
It had 17 miles of trackage and housed over 1250 cars. Building B even had indoor tracks with platforms for 50 cars. A glass skylight covered the loading dock. This allowed for operations in all types of weather.
One somber task here involved the repatriation of fallen soldiers. After World War II, the remains of 5200 servicemen arrived. They were transferred to US Army Transportation Corps Mortuary Cars.
The City of New York purchased the Brooklyn Army Terminal in 1981. The intent was to renovate the property. It would be used for light manufacturing and warehouses.
Today, the Brooklyn Army Terminal blends history and modern versatility. It’s home to over 100 businesses. Arts and cultural events create a vibrant hub. Artists creators and innovators thrive here. The Brooklyn Army Terminal supports a range of dynamic industries. It brings opportunities to the Sunset Park community.
Anchored in resilience and creativity, the Brooklyn Army Terminal continues to shape the future. Its legacy remains a vital part of New York City’s industrial ecosystem. From military hub to modern business center, the Brooklyn Army Terminal stands as a testament to innovation and adaptation.