ROBERT HUFFSTUTTER says:
THE INSPIRATION FOR YET ANOTHER NEW GALLERY, SEPIA MASTERPIECES, IN MY OPINION...
Many people are not quite sure what sepia means when referring to photographic images. This photo, by Daniel Mennerich, defines the sepia photograph. It is not a black and white photo, it is not a color photo, it is not a photo-manipulated photo, it is, precisely, a photo that appears to be aged, like good whiskey, to a tone of hues and shades that makes the viewer say, "Man, that is really an historic shot."
It is a matter of taste; some photos look better when presented in a sepia format while others look better in color or black and white. Personally, considering the historic nature of the Flatiron Building, sepia is the right venue.
Thanks, Daniel, for the opportunity to write an essay about SEPIA and your photographic genius. This photo is one of my favorites.
A PERSONAL NOTE ABOUT THIS PHOTOGRAPH
What a joy it would be to have a studio apartment on the 4th or 7th floor.
Robert
ROBERT HUFFSTUTTER says:
Childs Restaurant Building
1208 Surf Avenue, Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York City, New York, United States
Summary
The Childs Restaurant Building on Surf Avenue in Coney Island was the first restaurant built for this well-known chain in Coney Island, at a time when the area was changing from its somewhat seedy aura of summer amusements to a wholesome, family resort that could be enjoyed year-round. The Childs Restaurant chain, begun in 1889, developed as small luncheonettes that catered to working people, where one could find decent meals for a reasonable price in a clean environment. As such, it was the perfect type of establishment for the “new Coney Island.”
This building was constructed in 1917 in West Brighton near the terminus of the Prospect Park and Coney Island Railway line and close by many of the most famous amusements of the area. Childs Restaurant filled the need for a respectable but not expensive restaurant for the many working-class New Yorkers who flocked to the beach for a relaxing day in the sun. As the area prospered, a second and larger Childs was built at 21st Street facing the new Boardwalk. This first restaurant continued to operate in this location until 1943 when the property was leased to the Blue Bird Casino and restaurant. During the following years the building continued to house restaurants, clubs and other activities related to Coney Island’s amusements.
It was the site of David Rosen’s Wonderland Circus Sideshow and, since 2007, has been the location of Coney Island U.S.A. and the Coney Island Museum, which documents the history of this famous New York City neighborhood. Originally designed by John C. Westervelt who worked for the Childs chain for many years, the building displays elements of the Spanish Revival style, seen in its overhanging red tile roof, round-arched openings and white facade. Its wide arches facing two streets served as grand welcoming gestures to crowds passing by, while the style suggests a warm Mediterranean resort and hint at the fun to be had in Coney Island. This building is a rare survivor from a many years of Coney Island history, beginning when an assortment of amusements and the sea air attracted thousands of pleasure-seekers escaping from the nearby hot city through the present day.
Much more to read. Please go to Guerra's FLICKR PHOTOSTREAM. Click on this link.
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