LP-2696
Public School 15 Annex – 362 Schermerhorn Street
ITEM PROPOSED FOR PUBLIC HEARING
A three-story Romanesque Revival school building designed by James Naughton and built in 1889.
The Historic Districts Council supports the designation of the Public School 15 Annex at 362 Schermerhorn Street.
Designed in 1889 by James Naughton, the Annex is a three-story red-brick Romanesque Revival building with Queen Anne details prominently located at Schermerhorn Street and Third Avenue. Naughton, who designed more than 100 schools, sought to elevate the architectural character of Brooklyn’s public school buildings, and the Annex remains a distinctive and well-preserved example of his work.
By the 1920s, the building housed the Girls’ Continuation School, serving thousands of young women—many immigrants or daughters of immigrants—from nearby neighborhoods. Part of early 20th-century child labor reforms, these schools ensured working teenagers continued their education while receiving vocational training.
The Public School 15 Annex remains highly intact, with only minor alterations that do not diminish its architectural character or historic significance. Landmark designation is essential to ensure the long-term protection of this important piece of Brooklyn’s architectural and social history.