Engine Company Number 23

History and architecture

Engine Company Number 23, built in 1905-06, was designed by Alexander H. Stevens in a straightforward Beaux-Arts style that served as a model for subsequent firehouse design. The symmetry of the three story facade, its materials — Indiana limestone and red brick laid in Flemish bond with dark headers, and its consistently ample fenestration successfully combine to give it its official character.

The repetition of architectural elements and their functions — segmental door and window heads, compatible window head and entablature, the sill course, keystones, bracket stone and key consoles — combine to create a sophisticated and cohesive facade design. From this firehouse this engine company has continued to fulfill its mission of protecting the lives and property of the citizens of New York.

History - Engine Company 23

Engine Company 23 was organized on October 6, 1865, two months after New York City's paid, professional Fire Department was established. Each of the older volunteer companies was replaced by a resident professional company. Originally Engine Company 23 was Harry Howard Volunteer Company 36, a company established in 1810 as Equitable Company 36 in response to the demands of the fledgling fire insurance industry. Equitable 36 changed its name about 1858 when Howard, the popular Chief Engineer of the volunteer department, suffered a paralytic stroke in performance of duty.

Engine Company 23 has been on West 58th Street more than 100 years. The current building at West 58th Street is its second home; the company moved from West 68th Street, between Broadway and Tenth Avenue (now Amsterdam), to a new firehouse at 233 West 58th Street (demolished 1939) in 1884.