Brooklyn is the largest of New York City's five boroughs. It is also the most populous county in the state with 2.45 million residents. The population within Brooklyn consists of over 90 different ethnic groups from everywhere in the world. Yet, there are specific landmarks that set Brooklyn apart from the other boroughs.
In order to be declared a landmark, it is stipulated by the Landmark Law that "a potential landmark must be at least 30 years old and must possess a special character or special historical or aesthetic interest or value as part of the development, heritage, or cultural characteristics of the city, state, or nation."" Landmarks are divided into four different types: Individual landmarks (structures), Interior landmarks (building interiors that are open to the public), Scenic Landmarks (parks or landscape features), and Historic districts (an area of the city that possesses architectural and historical significance). Once something is designated a landmark, the Landmarks Preservation Commission officially recognizes that it is an important part of New York City's heritage. Brooklyn contains many landmarks of all four categories.
Brooklyn is home to the oldest building in New York City. The Wyckoff Museum, which is located at 5816 Clarendon Road, was erected by Peter Claesen around 1652. It is a modest structure with wide pine floorboards and a shingled exterior. Peter and his wife, Grietje, along with their 11 kids occupied the house for years. The kitchen has low ceilings in order to retain the heat in the winter. Stripped walls show the original construction of wooden slats filled with handmade bricks and mud. The house, which is now on display, contains its original mauve and white ceramic fireplace tiles that were imported from Holland. You can also find a Dutch cupboard, a spinning wheel, and a 17th century pistol. This house remained in the Wyckoff family until 1901.
