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By Will Bredderman
Brooklyn Daily
It’s like unwrapping a present from the past.
Fort Hamilton Army Garrison cut the ribbon on its Harbor Defense Museum on Sept. 5, after a year-long closure for renovations.
The display of arms and uniforms from two centuries of guarding the Narrows shut down in 2012 to allow workers to plug a long-running leak and put in a new ventilation system. Officers at the installation saluted the re-opening of what they called a link to glorious years gone by at the fort.
“This museum represents an important part of our community,” said Colonel Eluyn Gines, commander of the fort. “Fort Hamilton is one of the oldest bases in our nation. Its museum not only captures that history, but safeguards our culture for today and future generations. It provides the best historical information there is about Fort Hamilton.”
Those charged with the museum’s upkeep also applauded the restoration as a demonstration of the base’s dedication to its past.
“Passion for history and the commitment to historic preservation are alive and well on Fort Hamilton,” said director and curator Rich Cox.
The museum first opened in 1980, and is the only Army museum within the City of New York. Fort Hamilton itself became part of the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
Harbor Defense Museum, Building 230 at Fort Hamilton Army Garrison [101st Street and Fort Hamilton Parkway in Bay Ridge, (718) 630-4349]. Open Monday through Friday, and the first Saturday of each month, from 10 am to 4 pm.