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Inside The Abandoned Old Bronx Borough Courthouse
By
Jen Carlson
Published Apr 21, 2015
Modified Apr 21, 2015
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By
Jen Carlson
Published Apr 21, 2015
Modified Apr 21, 2015
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On Thursday night, the old Bronx Borough Courthouse will open its decrepit doors to one and all. The city sealed the doors in 1977, though it was saved from demolition because of its landmark status. No Longer Empty (NLE) has briefly taken control of the keys and is hosting an art show in its remains—the organizers noted that the building still has a "stunning structure, though the interior, which was seriously looted before the building was boarded up, is little more than a shell."
From their announcement:
"The Old Bronx Borough Courthouse is taken as both site and theme: a time capsule, witness, and symbol existing within a plurality of narratives about its future role in the neighborhood. The exhibition will occupy three floors and include the works of 26 artists and site-specific works commissioned by NLE. To activate the empty space and directly involve the community members, NLE will host public programs and activities."
Approximately 20 events will take place, including an urban gardening workshop, walking tours, and a fashion show.
The opening, and the exhibition (which runs through July 19th) is free and open to the public. You can get all of the details on their website. We got a sneak peek inside before the opening this Thursday—click through for a look.
The Bronx Borough Courthouse is located at East 161st Street, between 3rd and Brook Avenues.
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Jen Carlson
Jen Carlson is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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