The Pencil Factory in Greenpoint, Brooklyn is an iconic building with a rich history that dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Originally constructed in 1872, the building served as the Eberhard Faber Pencil Company’s factory, which was pivotal in the mass production of pencils in the United States.
The Eberhard Faber Pencil Company was established by Eberhard Faber, a German immigrant who was part of the renowned Faber family known for their high-quality writing instruments. The factory in Greenpoint was one of the first American sites dedicated to pencil production, and it quickly became a critical supplier nationally and internationally.
The factory complex consists of several buildings, with the most notable ones located at 58-70 West Street. These structures feature distinctive red-brick facades, large industrial windows, and classic 19th-century architecture. The main building’s facade still bears the Faber name and a pencil-shaped finial on the roof, serving as a reminder of its historical significance.
During its peak operation, the factory employed hundreds of workers and was a significant contributor to the local economy. It was renowned for producing high-quality pencils, including the famous Mongol pencil, which became a staple in schools and offices across the country. The production process involved various stages, from shaping the wood to inserting the graphite and attaching the eraser, all meticulously carried out within the factory walls.
In 1967, the Eberhard Faber Pencil Company was sold to Faber-Castell, another prominent name in the pencil industry. Consequently, the Greenpoint factory ceased operations, and the building fell into a period of neglect. However, its historical and architectural significance did not go unnoticed.
In 2007, the factory complex was designated a New York City Landmark, ensuring its preservation and recognition as a vital part of the city’s industrial heritage. Today, the buildings have been repurposed for modern use, housing creative studios, office spaces, and residential lofts. This adaptive reuse highlights the blend of historical preservation with contemporary urban needs.
The Pencil Factory’s legacy extends beyond its physical structure. It represents a significant chapter in the industrial history of Brooklyn and the broader narrative of American manufacturing. The site stands as a testament to the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, encapsulating the story of a humble writing instrument that played a crucial role in education and communication.
In summary, the Pencil Factory in Greenpoint is not just a relic of the past but a symbol of the enduring influence of industrial innovation and its impact on community and culture. Its preservation allows current and future generations to appreciate the craftsmanship and industrial progress that once thrived in this Brooklyn neighborhood.