Erasmus Hall High School: A Legacy of Academic Excellence and Notable Alumni
Erasmus Hall High School, situated in the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City, boasts a rich history and a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields. Founded in 1786 as Erasmus Hall Academy, the institution carries the name of Desiderius Erasmus, a renowned Dutch Renaissance humanist and Catholic Christian theologian. As the first secondary school chartered by the New York State Regents, Erasmus Hall has played a vital role in shaping the educational landscape of New York City.
Historical Overview
Originally a private institution, Erasmus Hall Academy began accepting female students in 1801 and incorporated the village school of Flatbush in 1803. As Brooklyn's population grew in the early 20th century, the school expanded to accommodate the increasing number of students. In 1904, the Board of Education initiated a building campaign, led by architect C. B. J. Snyder, to construct a series of buildings around an open quadrangle while preserving the original Academy building.
The construction of the new campus occurred in four phases: 1905-1906, 1909-1911, 1924-1925, and 1939-1940. Architects William H. Gompert and Eric Kebbon oversaw the later stages of construction. The buildings feature buff brick facades with limestone and terra cotta trim, central entrance towers with Oriel windows, and Tudor-arched entrances. The architectural style evolved over time, with the later buildings exhibiting simpler designs while maintaining a sense of unity with the earlier structures.
In 1994, Erasmus Hall High School was divided into five smaller high schools, each focusing on a specific academic area, due to years of academic struggles. Despite the internal division, the schools share common facilities such as the lunchroom, gymnasium, library, and auditorium.
The Enduring Legacy of the Original Academy Building
The original Academy building, a wood-framed, clapboard-sided structure in the Georgian and Federal style, stands as a testament to the school's long history. Opened in 1787 with 26 students, the building has witnessed the evolution of Erasmus Hall over three centuries. Its presence in the courtyard of the current school serves as a reminder of the institution's roots and its commitment to education. Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr contributed funds towards the Academy’s construction. Prior to the Academy’s construction, the site was home to a Dutch public school erected in 1658.
Read also: Applying for Erasmus Mundus
Notable Alumni
Erasmus Hall High School has produced a remarkable array of accomplished individuals who have excelled in diverse fields. Here are some of the school's notable alumni:
- Eric Adams: Politician, former police officer, and current Mayor of New York City.
- Ira Arlook: Attorney and political figure.
- Al Arum: Boxing promoter.
- Clara Bow: Actress.
- Betty Comden: Lyricist and playwright.
- Billy Cunningham: Basketball player and coach.
- Jim Cymbala: Pastor of the Brooklyn Tabernacle.
- Al Davis: Owner of the Las Vegas Raiders.
- Neil Diamond: Singer-songwriter.
- Elaine M. Fried de Kooning: Artist.
- Robert S. Delson: Attorney, specializing in international trade
- Norm Drucker: NBA referee.
- Walter Farley: Author of "The Black Stallion" series.
- Bobby Fischer: World chess champion.
- Arthur Frommer: Travel writer and publisher.
- Deborah Grabien: Novelist.
- Susan Hayward (nee Ellen Marrenner): Actress. Attended Erasmus in the mid 30's.
- Waite Hoyt: Baseball pitcher.
- Ned Irish: Founder of the New York Knicks.
- Eric R. Kandel: Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist.
- Roger Kahn: Author, best known for "The Boys of Summer."
- Don Kretmar: Saxophonist and bass guitarist.
- Harold Kushner: Rabbi and author.
- Michele LaBombarda: TV and Film actor.
- Arthur Laurents: Playwright, screenwriter, and director.
- Shawn Lee: Football player.
- John J. Lee: Basketball player.
- Sid Luckman: Football player.
- Aline MacMahon: Actress.
- Daniel Mann: Film and television director.
- Steven M. Marcus: Literary scholar.
- Melodee M. Meyer: Composer and music educator.
- Emil Praeger: Engineer.
- Gilbert Price: Baritone.
- Lynn Pressman Raymond: Toy executive.
- Michael Rapaport: Actor and director.
- Jerry Reinsdorf: Owner of the Chicago Bulls and Chicago White Sox.
- Al Roth: Bridge player.
- Sam Rutigliano: Football coach.
- Sheldon J. Segal: Scientist who developed contraceptives.
- Richard Sylbert: Production designer.
- Beverly Sills: Opera singer.
- Bernadette Stanis: Actress.
- Barbra Streisand: Singer, actress, and filmmaker.
- Paul Sylbert: Production designer.
- Mae West: Actress, playwright, screenwriter, and singer.
Erasmus Hall Today
Today, Erasmus Hall High School continues to serve the students of Brooklyn, offering a diverse range of academic programs and extracurricular activities. The school's historic buildings stand as a reminder of its long and distinguished past, while its dedicated faculty and staff work to prepare students for success in the 21st century.
Read also: Erasmus Opportunities
Read also: Explore Haas Hall Academy
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