Tuesday, March 13, 2012
News As Brighton Boardwalk Goes Plastic, a Dockbuilder Remembers It in the 80s
Posted by Henry Stewart on Tue, Mar 13, 2012 at 2:22 PM
My uncle Gary worked on the boardwalk several decades ago. I got in touch to ask about what that was like, and what he thinks of the proposed changes.
When did you work on the boardwalk?
I worked on a half mile stretch of the Coney boardwalk, from the fishing pier to the Aquarium, in the summer of 1980. I was in the Dockbuilder's Union like my father before me. My partner and I were hired to pry up the worn-out boards and whatever support beams that needed replacing. The thing about the support beams is you have to coat them with creosote, which burns your skin, especially in the sun. We worked there for five months, and replaced the old boards with South American hardwood we called "Greenheart." You had to drill through it because nails would split it otherwise. It was hard work but I got in good shape doing it.
How was Coney Island different back then?
Coney in that section was run down, with hookers cruising the adjacent streets.
What were the other guys on the job like?
The guys we worked with were a mix of old Norwegians, Finns, and a Native American with a long scar across his face from a chainsaw accident.
How do you feel about the city's proposal to replace parts of the boardwalk with concrete and plastic "lumber"?
I think plastic decking won't hold up in the harsh winters and blistering summers. I was proud of the work we did there, and miss the old Boardwalk of my childhood. At least we still have Nathan's and the carousel.
Follow Henry Stewart on Twitter @henrycstewart
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