This exhibit celebrates two centuries of highly decorative manhole covers,
coal chute covers, and vault covers in New York City. They are precious relics of a bygone era.
These entryways to the world below are works of art, distinguished by their originality
, precision, and durability, yet are tough and durable enough to withstand the indignity of footsteps or traffic.
Coal was delivered into coal chutes. As the era of home coal use dwindled and was replaced by oil, many coal hole covers were modified to receive fuel oil.
Manholes permit access for installation, maintenance, and repair of wires and other equipment for utilities.
Rooms below sidewalks, called vaults, served as work spaces, storage areas, and
for refrigeration. Illumination was achieved by the use of vault covers with glass
insets on the surface that allowed daylight in
.
These artifacts from our past are products of those foundries which played
a key role in the building of our great city. Beyond these highly decorative cast-iron covers very
little survives from the early years of that industry.
They are indeed a history of New York City's infrastructure written on our sidewalks.
Manhole covers served another function fondly recalled by New Yorkers. During neighborhood stickball games, a ‘three-hole’ or ‘three-sewer’ meant a ball was hit all the way to the third manhole cover (and the batter was very good).
Quietly performing their duty, they are overlooked by passersby, unnoticed and unappreciated by many.
Cities worldwide celebrate their covers while New York City seems intent on covering or removing them. The loss of these unique specimens, many with outstanding and unique design qualities, is an incalculable loss. We are all poorer when this historical record is irretrievably gone.
In a one woman crusade, Diana Stuart initiated concern among historians and
preservationists to prevent further loss of these artifacts. Through her efforts,
the Landmarks Preservation Commission is currently reviewing the Landmark Designation
of all of New York City’s covers. Many historic societies, community boards,
the Fine Arts Federation, and other preservation groups citywide have expressed their support.
A sample letter to the Landmarks Preservation Commission Commissioner is
on the website of the Society for the Preservation of Manhole Covers in NYC:
www.nycmanholecovers.org.
Although these covers faced incredible obstacles in withstanding the test of time, they are an endangered species. New York City’s covers should be rightfully recognized for their artistic and historic contributions and not be allowed to perish.
The exhibit features examples from foundries and locations in Queens and the other boroughs. Information about her book, and manhole cover lapel pins are also featured here.
To view more manhole covers, vist the Manhole Cover Photo Gallery below
If you want further information contact Diana Stuart by phone (212) 685-6150 or email manholecoverlady@hotmail.com. For a copy of her book send $36 (includes shipping) to 305 E. 24 St. - Apt. 20-D NY, NY 10010.
Visit Diana’s latest exhibit,
"Designs Underfoot - The Art of Manhole Covers"
at the Greater Astoria Historical Society’s latest installation
"Look Up, Look Down, Look Around"
in the Lecture Hall in Quinn’s Gallery (4th Floor),
35-20 Broadway in Long Island City. Call the historical society at (718) 278-0700.
