When I first discovered Urban Archaeology in the early eighties, they had a vast collection of old public school pieces, like bathroom mirrors and doors, door knobs, sinks, old metal signs. I could not help but drift back to my anxious days in grade school walking the echoing marble halls and wondering how many before me had passed down those same halls with the same anxiety and awe. It was amazing how even a door knob was able to evoke that nostaglia.
Opened in 1978 by Gil Shapiro, Urban Archaeology was an early trendsetter is recycling urban architecture from the demolitian and salvage yards. Unique everyday pieces from the past were saved from the scrap heap grave. Demolitian crews were more than happy to give the stuff away and save some carting and disposal expense. Little did they realize that those throwaways had real value. Gil Shapiro knew.
Many years later, the business has thrived and stores can be found in two locations in Manhattan, 143 Franklin Street and 239 East 58th Street. There is also a store in Bridgehampton, Chicago & Boston. The craftsmen and artisans there also create replicas and do various design work. They carry lighting, hardware, furnishings, tiles and more.
So stop in and pay them a visit. Don’t be surprised to hear the bell sounding dismissal from class.
