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Noise from Cars Parked with Engines Running
825 West 187th Street, Manhattan

22 August 1930
complainant: Miss Mary E. Goodman and S. Fabian Goodman
1834 Broadway (at 60th St.), Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." It is not evident if the Goodmans lived or worked near the 187th Street location of the noise that disturbed them.

Neighbor Who Runs His [Automobile] Motor In the Early Morning Hours
514 Bradford Street, Brooklyn

20 January 1931
complainant: Mr. Samuel Leplitsky
512 Bradford Street, Brooklyn

A hand-written note on Commissioner Wynne's acknowledgement of Mr. Leplitsky's complaint indicates that a "Mr. Rosenberg" was telephoned. It is not apparent if Rosenberg was the noisy neighbor, or someone else to whom the complaint was referred.

Cab Stand of Key City Cab Corp.
412 East 55th Street, Manhattan

24 November 1933
complainant: Mr. H.W. Robbins
465 East 57th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Robbins was informed that his complaint had been referred to the Sanitary Bureau of the Health Department for "immediate attention."

Automobile Traffic
[Near 400 East 49th St., Manhattan]

18 April 1933
complainant: Mrs. Antoinette C. Fuel
400 East 49th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Fuel's complaint was forwarded to James Bolan, Department of Police, for investigation. It is assumed the traffic that bothered her was near her home.

Brief sidewalk scene with honking car horn. (00:05; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:43; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:20; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

Storefronts along "Radio Row" loudly broadcast their wares out into the street. (01:19; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Times Square. (00:57; Broadway at 47th St., New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Broadway. (03:43; Broadway around Times Square, New York City, 7 December 1929)

A policeman's whistle penetrates the din of traffic as New Yorkers converge on Coney Island on a hot summer day. (00:52; Stillwell and Surf Aves., Coney Island, New York City, 15 June 1930)

Employees of White Trucking Co.
Atlantic Avenue between Franklin and Classon Aves, Brooklyn

26 July 1930
complainant: Miss Gertrude L. Weston
178 Lefferts Place, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Heavy Truck Traffic From the Canarsie and Trifalgo [?] Trucking Cos.
43rd St., between Vandeventer [28th Ave.] and Wilson [25th Ave.] Sts., Astoria, Queens

14 June 1930
complainant: Francis Collier Ott
25-77 43rd Street, Astoria, Queens

Ott had written to Wynne in May 1930. That letter was forwarded to the Noise Abatement Commission and thence to the Police Department. In response to Ott's re-iteration of his complaint, E.B. Dennis of the Noise Abatement Commission drafted a letter on behalf of Commissioner Wynne, which explained to Mr. Ott that neither the Department of Health nor the Noise Abatement Commission had jurisdiction over traffic. The letter further explained that, while Dennis was sympathetic to his situation, Mr. Ott could only initiate any action through the Traffic Division of the Police Department. Since Wynne approved the draft (see "OK" note at bottom), it seems likely that this letter was sent.

Truck Traffic
[Near 60 East 54th Street, Manhattan]

21 February 1930
complainant: Mr. Max Haering,
Resident Manager, Hotel Elysee
60 East 54th Street, Manhattan

It seems that the atmosphere around the Hotel Elysee was not very Elysian. Mr. Haering complained again, in October of 1930, that the noise of building demolition near the Hotel was now disturbing his guests. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Heavy Trucking at Night Near the Stockbridge Apartments
603-5 West 138th Street, Manhattan

9 October 1930
complainant: Mr. James P. Maney, President
Stockbridge Apartments Inc.
603-5 West 138th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Maney had initially complained of this noise on 27 September 1930, and he wrote again in October to complain of the Health Department's response. He had received a telephone call from a member of the Department instructing him that this was a matter for the Traffic Division of the Police Department to handle, and Maney indignantly refused to concede this fact, accusing the Commissioner of "passing the buck" and promising to present the matter to the Mayor or "still further" if Wynne did not personally respond and take up the alleviation of his complaint. Maney sent his angry letter via Registered Mail. Assistant Sanitary Superintendent Alonzo Blauvelt looked into Maney's many accusations and reported back to Commissioner Wynne. Wynne subsequently wrote to Maney, confirming that this matter fell under the jurisdiction of the Police and that the Health Department would not be taking any action to alleviate his complaint.

Trucks Moving Earth from Fulton Street Subway Construction
Through Canarsie, Brooklyn

17 September 1930
complainant: Mr. Nat J. Klauber
889 East 94th Street, Canarsie, Brooklyn

Mr. Klauber wrote from his office at the General Insurance Co., 889 East 94th Street, in Canarsie, Brooklyn. The Fulton Street Subway line is a good deal north of here, but it is possible the trucks that he complained of moved south from Fulton Street through Canarsie to dump their loads of earth and rubble into the bay. Klauber had previously complained about this same noise on 29 August 1930. In his letter of 17 September, he noted that, while the papers reported on the Aldermen's consideration of legislation to silence the late-night operation of miniature golf courses, he felt the noise of late-night trucking was a far greater threat to peoples' health.

Noisy Trucks from Park Laundry
516 East 80th Street, Manhattan

7 April 1931
complainant: Richard N. Pierson, M.D.
25 East End Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Late-Night Noise of Trucks From the Borden Milk Company
Near 114 East 78th Street, Manhattan

12 July 1932
complainant: Marion Alexander Meding (Mrs. Charles B. Meding)
114 East 78th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Meding wrote on behalf of her husband, who was ill and whose sleep was disturbed by the noisy milk truck. A hand-written note on Mrs. Meding's letter of complaint indicates that WJM (William J. Mills, Assistant Secretary to the Commissioner of Health) spoke to someone at the Bordon Dairy, who indicated that the truck would be re-routed. Mrs. Meding was then phoned with this information.

Late-Night Newspaper Delivery Men and Trucks at The Mirror
[235 East 45th Street], Manhattan

22 May 1932
complainant: Mary Raymond
244 East 45th Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne's Secretary, William Mills, informed Mary Raymond that her complaint would receive attention. Wynne contacted A.J. Kobler, Editor of The Mirror, who passed the matter on to his Business Manager, J.F. Cullen, with instructions to relieve the condition of which Raymond complained.

Trucks; Barking Dog at 55 West 90th St.; Residential Radio at 49 West 90th St.; Radio Store at 14th St. bet. B'way and Third Ave; Davegas Radio Stores on 42nd St. and 86th at B'way; City Radio on 42nd Street, and 86th at B'way; Radio Store, NW Corner of 59th St. and Lexington; Radio Store, NW Corner of 52nd St. and B'way; Radio Store at 50th St. and Eighth Ave.; Two Radio Stores, South Side of 42nd St. West of 3rd Ave; Radio Store at 99th St. and Columbus Ave.; Loudspeakers at Hollywood Store, 48th St. and B'way; Shoe-Shine Store, 48th St. and B'way; Loudspeakers, Tango Dance Hall, 65th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Dance Hall, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Radio Store, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers Broadcasting From Planes and Cars
[Throughout Manhattan]

26 January 1932
complainant: Gertrude Heyman [?]
[No Return Address Provided]

Gertrude's signed last name is difficult to read, but a Gertrude Heyman had previously contacted the Health Department to complain about noise in 1930. That woman lived on West 85th Street, somewhat near many of the complaints listed here. Since this 1933 letter did not include a return address indicating where she lived, her complaint was not acknowledged by the Department of Health and it is not evident if any of these many complaints were investigated.

Truck Traffic
Madison Ave. Near 84th St., Manhattan

9 September 1933
complainant: Mrs. Bella Cohen
35 East 84th Street, Manhattan

While Commissioner Wynne's reply to Mrs. Cohen's complaint is not preserved, he generally referred traffic complaints to the Police Department for action, as they had jurisdiction over matters regarding traffic in the city.

Truck Traffic
Vicinity of 911 Park Ave., Manhattan

31 May 1933
complainant: Mr. G. LeBoutillier
911 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. LeBoutillier's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation. Mr. LeBoutillier, who was a Vice President at the Pennsylvania Railroad, had complained back in June 1931 about the early-morning noise of ash and garbage removal near his residence.

Truck Traffic
138th Street, Manhattan

14 May 1926
complainant: Mr. F. Meagher
621 West 138th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Meagher's complaint to Mayor Walker was forwarded to the Department of Health by E.L. Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor. I.J. Greenberg, Secretary to Health Commissioner Dr. Louis Harris, replied to Stanton that this matter has been referred to the Sanitary Bureau for attention.

Truck Traffic From 7:00 A.M. to 1:00 A.M.
Rockaway Parkway, Brooklyn

3 September 1930
complainant: Mr. J. Mogil
439 Rockaway Parkway, Brooklyn

Mr. Mogil's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the letter was received.

Borden Milk Trucks Operating "All Hours of the Day and Night"
[Depot on 5th St. and Fourth Ave.], Brooklyn

12 July 1926
complainant: Edward J. Taubner and Petitioners
362 5th Street, Brooklyn

The petition from Mr. Taubner and his neighbors was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Louis Harris, "for such action as you deem proper" by Edward Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor.

Trucks All Hours of Night and Day
[Near 632 West 158th St., Manhattan]

15 July 1931
complainant: George M. Robinson
632 West 158th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Heavy Trucking and Engines and Whistles of Fire Engines
Lexington Ave. [Near East 78th St.], Manhattan

23 June 1933
complainant: Louise P. Jenkins
138 East 78th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Jenkins' complaints were forwarded, respectively, to the Commissioner of Police and the Fire Commissioner, for investigation and appropriate action.

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:43; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

A truck backfires on the Lower East Side. (00:10; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Buses Entering and Leaving a Garage Late at Night
Near Prince and Washington Streets, Queens

30 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Charles Williams, Queens Committee of 500 on Sanitation and Beautification, On Behalf of Neighbors
Neighborhood of Prince and Washington Streets, Queens

Commissioner Wynne replied that, while this nuisance was within the jurisdiction of the Police Dept. under Section 1530 of the Penal Law, he would have the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, send a Sanitary Inspector to the site. The Inspector was unable to verify the complaint but he spoke with the garage manager about the problem, and this manager apparently responded in a way that reduced the noise, as Mrs. Williams apparently wrote back later in July 1930 to commend the garage manager as well as the Health Inspector who handled the complaint. The location of Washington Street in Queens circa 1930 is unclear; the complaint has thus been placed along Prince Street.

Shrill Whistle on a Bus Carrying Crippled Children to the Henry Street School
Near 173 Henry Street, Manhattan

27 June 1930
complainant: Dr. L.A. Cranin
173 Henry Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noisy Employees of: Queens Dairy Farms; Liberty Bus Transportation Co.; Green Bus Co.; and Others
Vicinity of 103-44 98th St, Ozone Park, Queens

8 May 1933
complainant: Mr. Charles Goshkarian and Petitioners
103-44 98th Street, Queens

The petitioners' complaint was forwarded to James Bolan, Commissioner of Police, for investigation.

Bus and Truck Traffic
[Near 500 West 51st St., Manhattan]

26 December 1929
complainant: Mrs. Jane Rosson
500 West 51st Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Rosson's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Bus and Truck Traffic
[Near 500 West 51st St., Manhattan]

26 December 1929
complainant: Mrs. Jane Rosson
500 West 51st Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Rosson's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:43; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

"A Bunch of Tough's and Cab Drivers Who Honk Their Horns and Shriek Their Brakes"
Columbus Ave. and 83rd St., Manhattan

15 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. L. Siebert
474 Columbus Avenue, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne responded to Mrs. Siebert that Edward P. Mulrooney, Commissioner of the Police Department, had complete jurisdiction over the condition of which she complained.

Automobile Horns
[Near 7921 Furmansville Ave., Middle Village, Queens]

4 September 1930
complainant: Mr. Alfred Brady
7921 Furmanville Avenue, Middle Village, Queens

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Brady did not specify the location of the horns that disturbed him, but they were probably somewhere near his home.

Automobile Horns
Nottingham Park, Brooklyn

9 May 1933
complainant: Harry Weisberg, Chairman, Noise-Abatement Committee, Nottingham Assn.
1348 East 21st Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Weisberg had previously written to Mayor Walker requesting information on New York's Noise Abatement Commission, and the Mayor's Office had forwarded his query to the Department of Health. Commissioner Wynne responded by informing Weisberg that the Noise Abatement Commission had disbanded in May of 1932, and he sent along a copy of their official report, "City Noise." Weisberg wrote back to thank Wynne and he included his own report on the Noise-Abatement Committee of the Nottingham Association, which focused on the unnecessary noise of automobile horns.

Brief sidewalk scene with honking car horn. (00:05; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Passengers enter and exit an elevated train car under the supervision of a conductor. (01:55; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Riveters fasten together steel girders. (00:40; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Church bell serenade from the Park Avenue Baptist Church. (01:03; Park Ave. at 64th St., New York City, 25 March 1928)

Excavation via dynamite for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:20; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

A peddler seeking to purchase old clothes negotiates with a customer somewhere on the Lower East Side. (01:07; unspecified location in New York City, 10 October 1929)

Construction workers on the Chrysler Building describe their work far above the sounds of the city below them. (00:34; 405 Lexington Ave., New York City, 20 November 1929)

Storefronts along "Radio Row" loudly broadcast their wares out into the street. (01:19; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

Members of the Noise Abatement Commission measure noise in Times Square as an interested crowd looks on. (03:25; Times Square, New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Times Square. (00:57; Broadway at 47th St., New York City, 1929)

Storefronts broadcast a variety of music out onto the noisy street known as "Radio Row." (02:56; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Broadway. (03:43; Broadway around Times Square, New York City, 7 December 1929)

A policeman's whistle penetrates the din of traffic as New Yorkers converge on Coney Island on a hot summer day. (00:52; Stillwell and Surf Aves., Coney Island, New York City, 15 June 1930)

"A Bunch of Tough's and Cab Drivers Who Honk Their Horns and Shriek Their Brakes"
Columbus Ave. and 83rd St., Manhattan

15 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. L. Siebert
474 Columbus Avenue, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne responded to Mrs. Siebert that Edward P. Mulrooney, Commissioner of the Police Department, had complete jurisdiction over the condition of which she complained.

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:43; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:20; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

The sights and sounds of Broadway. (03:43; Broadway around Times Square, New York City, 7 December 1929)

Cut-Out Muffler on Renken Dairy Truck
Near 2639 Mansfield Place, Brooklyn

15 August 1931
complainant: Mrs. W.E. Turner
2639 Mansfield Place, Brooklyn

The name of Mansfield Place in Brooklyn was changed to 24th Street right around the time that Mrs. Turner wrote her letter to Commissioner Wynne. Her complaint was referred to the Division of Milk and Milk Production Inspection of the Bureau of Food and Drugs, which sent an Inspector Zimmerman to investigate. Upon verifying the noise, Zimmerman spoke with Mr. M.H. Renken Jr. about the problem and was assured that the noise would be abated at once. Reinspection showed that this had been done, and Mrs. Turner was apparently satisfied enough to write a letter of commendation back to the Department.

A truck backfires on the Lower East Side. (00:10; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Heavy Trucking and Engines and Whistles of Fire Engines
Lexington Ave. [Near East 78th St.], Manhattan

23 June 1933
complainant: Louise P. Jenkins
138 East 78th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Jenkins' complaints were forwarded, respectively, to the Commissioner of Police and the Fire Commissioner, for investigation and appropriate action.

Sirens
[Near 330 Fifth Avenue, Mahattan]

29 April 1930
complainant: Mr. J. L. Swope
330 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Garbage Collection and Shrieking Fire Engines
West 56th St., between Sixth and Seventh Aves., Manhattan

20 August 1930
complainant: Miss Caroline Dexter
468 Fourth [Park] Avenue, Manhattan

Miss Dexter wrote from her work address at The Trained Nurse and Hospital Review.

Sirens from Ambulances Heading to St. Vincent's Hospital
Neighborhood of 200 West 16th St., Manhattan

12 August 1932
complainant: Mrs. Mary A. Markey
200 West 16th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Markey's complaint was originally sent to Mayor Walker. It was subsequently forwarded to the Department of Health for action. St. Vincent's Hospital was located at Seventh Avenue and 11th Street, and it is assumed the ambulances of which Mrs. Markey complained would have been traveling down the Avenue through her neighborhood toward the hospital.

A fire engine - with bell ringing and siren wailing - pulls out of the station and off to a fire. Afterwards, children resume playing in a water fountain in front of the station. (00:54; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Noisy fire engines head off to a fire. (00:42; 57th St., New York City, 2 February 1929)

A fire engine - with bell ringing and siren wailing - pulls out of the station and off to a fire. Afterwards, children resume playing in a water fountain in front of the station. (00:54; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Noisy fire engines head off to a fire. (00:42; 57th St., New York City, 2 February 1929)

Garbage Collection and Shrieking Fire Engines
West 56th St., between Sixth and Seventh Aves., Manhattan

20 August 1930
complainant: Miss Caroline Dexter
468 Fourth [Park] Avenue, Manhattan

Miss Dexter wrote from her work address at The Trained Nurse and Hospital Review.

Heavy Trucking and Engines and Whistles of Fire Engines
Lexington Ave. [Near East 78th St.], Manhattan

23 June 1933
complainant: Louise P. Jenkins
138 East 78th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Jenkins' complaints were forwarded, respectively, to the Commissioner of Police and the Fire Commissioner, for investigation and appropriate action.

A fire engine - with bell ringing and siren wailing - pulls out of the station and off to a fire. Afterwards, children resume playing in a water fountain in front of the station. (00:54; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Noisy fire engines head off to a fire. (00:42; 57th St., New York City, 2 February 1929)

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:43; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:20; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

Storefronts along "Radio Row" loudly broadcast their wares out into the street. (01:19; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

Storefronts broadcast a variety of music out onto the noisy street known as "Radio Row." (02:56; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Broadway. (03:43; Broadway around Times Square, New York City, 7 December 1929)

Traffic Police Whistles
[Near 21 East 40th Street, Manhattan]

15 August 1930
complainant: Henry Curran, President, Assn. Against the Prohibition Amendment
21 East 40th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Curran wrote to both Commissioner of Health Dr. Shirley Wynne and Police Commissioner Edward Mulrooney, commending the men for the recent work done to abate the noise of the "shrill toy school-boy whistles" of traffic police.

James Murray, Blasting Foreman, compares the city's subway extension project to the digging of the Panama Canal. (00:40; Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:43; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

Members of the Noise Abatement Commission measure noise in Times Square as an interested crowd looks on. (03:25; Times Square, New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Broadway. (03:43; Broadway around Times Square, New York City, 7 December 1929)

A policeman's whistle penetrates the din of traffic as New Yorkers converge on Coney Island on a hot summer day. (00:52; Stillwell and Surf Aves., Coney Island, New York City, 15 June 1930)

86th Street Crosstown Trolley
Turning South on Madison Ave. and 86th St., and Turning North on Madison Ave. and 85th St.

12 August 1930
complainant: Dr. E. Fox
355 East 149th Street, Manhattan

Dr. Fox wrote from an uptown address on 149th Street. It is not clear if Fox lived or worked in the area of complaint, or perhaps the doctor just rode this streetcar line.

Night-Time Noise ("Something To Do With the Trolley Line")
Madison Ave., between 48th and 50th Sts., Manhattan

12 June 1930
complainant: Henrietta E. (Mrs. Oakley S.) Barker
31 East 49th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Barker's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Workers operate pneumatic jackhammers as they repair trolley tracks. (00:32; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Noisy traffic rolls slowly past Penn Station. (00:43; Penn Station, New York City, 8 July 1929)

Storefronts along "Radio Row" loudly broadcast their wares out into the street. (01:19; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

An elevated train noisily taking a sharp turn in the tracks adds to the din of street traffic and an unhappy dog. (00:31; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

A steam-powered pile driver sinks a shaft for the foundation of a new building as a steam shovel excavates the site. (01:36; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Times Square. (00:57; Broadway at 47th St., New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Broadway. (03:43; Broadway around Times Square, New York City, 7 December 1929)

A policeman's whistle penetrates the din of traffic as New Yorkers converge on Coney Island on a hot summer day. (00:52; Stillwell and Surf Aves., Coney Island, New York City, 15 June 1930)

IRT Substation #41
150 West 16th Street, Manhattan

3 June 1930
complainant: H.W. Hurlbut
141 West 16th Street, Manhattan

Hurlbut's complaint was forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt.

IRT Subway Turnstiles
68th St. and Lexington Ave. Station, Manhattan

28 January 1931
complainant: Miss Anna E. Robinson
67th Street and Second Avenue, Manhattan

Robinson originally wrote to complain of the noisy turnstiles in early November of 1930. She probably passed through that station twice daily on her commute to and from work at the Julia Richmond High School on 67th Street. Her letter was forwarded by the Department of Health to Frank Hedley, President and General Manager of the Interborough Rapid Transit Company. Hedley contacted Commissioner Wynne in January of 1931 to note that new, silent turnstiles were now being installed in the station of which Miss Robinson had complained, and Wynne followed up by notifying Miss Robinson of the installation.

Elevated Trains, Subways, and Railroads
[Near 244 East 59th St., Manhattan]

14 July 1930
complainant: Mr. R. J. Simonek
244 East 59th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Simonek wrote to Mayor Walker, requesting information on these sources of noise. His request was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

James Murray, Blasting Foreman, compares the city's subway extension project to the digging of the Panama Canal. (00:40; Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Excavation via dynamite for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Excavation via steam shovel for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Elevated Trains, Subways, and Railroads
[Near 244 East 59th St., Manhattan]

14 July 1930
complainant: Mr. R. J. Simonek
244 East 59th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Simonek wrote to Mayor Walker, requesting information on these sources of noise. His request was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Children play in a water fountain in front of a fire station as an elevated train rumbles by in the background. (01:01; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Passengers enter and exit an elevated train car under the supervision of a conductor. (01:55; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Riveters fasten together steel girders. (00:40; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

A fire engine - with bell ringing and siren wailing - pulls out of the station and off to a fire. Afterwards, children resume playing in a water fountain in front of the station. (00:54; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Noisy fire engines head off to a fire. (00:42; 57th St., New York City, 2 February 1929)

An elevated train noisily taking a sharp turn in the tracks adds to the din of street traffic and an unhappy dog. (00:31; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

A steam-powered pile driver sinks a shaft for the foundation of a new building as a steam shovel excavates the site. (01:36; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

Storefronts broadcast a variety of music out onto the noisy street known as "Radio Row." (02:56; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

New York Central Trains
Opposite 98 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

23 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Sol Stern
98 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

New York Central Trains
Opposite 33 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

23 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Morton W. Jacobs
33 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

New York Central Railroad Trains
[Perhaps Near the Spring Street Terminal?]

11 July 1930
complainant: Mr. J.A. Bennen Jr.
200 Hudson Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

New York Central Railroad
near 33 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

10 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Alfred Yankauer
33 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise and Smoke Nuisance [Probably New York Central Railroad Trains]
Near 33 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

9 July 1930
complainant: Miss Agnes D. Davis
33 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Railroad Freight Yard
Opposite 640 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

27 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Frederick W. Mathieu
640 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise of Livestock (Pigs, Cattle, Chickens) In Side-Tracked NY Central Railroad Cars
Riverside Drive, 79th to 86th Sts., Manhattan

2 October 1930
complainant: Residents of the Area
Riverside Drive, 79th to 86th Streets, Manhattan

The complaint, from residents of this area, is mentioned in a memo from Commissioner Wynne to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, asking Blauvelt to investigate. Blauvelt forwarded Wynne's directive to Mr. C.D. VanShaick of the New York Central Railroad, who passed it on to an assistant there. On 6 October 1930, NYCRR Superintendent M.E. Welch replied to Blauvelt, explaining the conditions that sometime necessitated the holding of livestock cars in this area. He assured Blauvelt the Railroad would make an extra effort to minimize this holding time and correct any irregularities.

Early Morning Noise of Poultry in NY Central Railroad Cars
Along 137 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

26 April 1930
complainant: George F. Kunz
137 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Dr. Kunz complained vaguely about "conditions" along Riverside Drive in a letter to Commissioner Wynne dated 26 April 1930. The Department telephoned Kunz for more details, and Wynne subsequently asked Dr. Blauvelt to investigate the situation and report back.

Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Freight Engines
Near 97 St. Marks Place, Richmond [Staten Island]

6 September 1930
complainant: Mrs. Will Hamilton Baker
The Town Club, 97 St. Marks Place
Richmond [Staten Island]

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Richmond (Staten Island) were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Richmond, Dr. William Buntin, for "investigation and appropriate action." It is likely that the railroad line that plagued Mrs. Hamilton at the Town Club was the one marked "Transit Railroad" on the 1933 map, which follows the north coast of the island turning south toward St. George near the Town Club. This line was a subsidiary of the B&O Railroad for many years.

Long Island Railroad Trains
[Near 12505 95th Avenue, Queens]

20 August 1930
complainant: Mrs. Margaret Sievert
12505 95th Street [Avenue], Morris Park, Queens

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action."

"Torpedos on the Tracks," New York Central Railroad
Especially at Washington and High Bridges, Bronx

7 April 1931
complainant: Mr. James W. Leonard
220 Boscobel Place, Apt. 6-O, Bronx

It is assumed that the "torpedos" of which Mr. Leonard complained were fast-moving locomotives.

Nightly Shifting of B&O Freight Cars
Railyard Near St. George Ferry, Richmond [Staten Island]

15 February 1932
complainant: I.L. Nascher, M.D.
Home for Dependents, Brielle Avenue, Richmond [Staten Island]

Dr. Nascher wrote from his work address, the Hospital Department of the Home for Dependents (the city's "poor house" and hospital for indigent patients with tuberculosis) on Brielle Avenue, Staten Island. This was not near the St. George Ferry Terminal, but perhaps he lived near the terminal or just passed through it regularly on his commute.

New York Central Railroad
Near 640 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

16 August 1929
complainant: Mr. Frederick W. Mathieu
640 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Mr. Mathieu's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention. Mr. Mathieu's wife would write to complain of this same noise in July of 1930.

Freight Trains
Vicinity of 8906 121st St., Richmond Hill, Queens

27 August 1929
complainant: Mrs. J. Donnelly
8906 121st Street, Queens

Mrs. Donnely's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

New York Central Railroad
Riverside Drive Near 183rd St., Manhattan

20 April 1931
complainant: Mr. William Goebel
West 183rd Street and Pinehurst Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Goebel's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Hon. Thomas F. McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention.

Railroad Engines at Night
Riverside Drive, Manhattan

10 July 1929
complainant: Lewis L. Sell
15 Park Row, Manhattan

Mr. Sell's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker and was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. He wrote from his work address at the American Classical Co., downtown on Park Row. He probably lived somewhere along Riverside Drive.

NY Central Railroad Freight Trains
Neighborhood of 344 West 72nd St., Manhattan

17 December 1929
complainant: Miss Miriam A. Goldfluss
344 West 72nd Street, Manhattan

Miss Goldfluss's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Night-Time Shunting Operation, New York Central Railroad
Vicinity of 344 West 72nd St., Manhattan

23 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Margaret Puntin
344 West 72nd Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Puntin's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Elevated Trains, Subways, and Railroads
[Near 244 East 59th St., Manhattan]

14 July 1930
complainant: Mr. R. J. Simonek
244 East 59th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Simonek wrote to Mayor Walker, requesting information on these sources of noise. His request was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Bells, whistles, and the chugging steam power of the Twentieth Century Limited locomotive. (00:42; 1928, location unknown)

IRT Subway Turnstiles
68th St. and Lexington Ave. Station, Manhattan

28 January 1931
complainant: Miss Anna E. Robinson
67th Street and Second Avenue, Manhattan

Robinson originally wrote to complain of the noisy turnstiles in early November of 1930. She probably passed through that station twice daily on her commute to and from work at the Julia Richmond High School on 67th Street. Her letter was forwarded by the Department of Health to Frank Hedley, President and General Manager of the Interborough Rapid Transit Company. Hedley contacted Commissioner Wynne in January of 1931 to note that new, silent turnstiles were now being installed in the station of which Miss Robinson had complained, and Wynne followed up by notifying Miss Robinson of the installation.

86th Street Crosstown Trolley
Turning South on Madison Ave. and 86th St., and Turning North on Madison Ave. and 85th St.

12 August 1930
complainant: Dr. E. Fox
355 East 149th Street, Manhattan

Dr. Fox wrote from an uptown address on 149th Street. It is not clear if Fox lived or worked in the area of complaint, or perhaps the doctor just rode this streetcar line.

An elevated train noisily taking a sharp turn in the tracks adds to the din of street traffic and an unhappy dog. (00:31; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

Shrill Whistle on a Bus Carrying Crippled Children to the Henry Street School
Near 173 Henry Street, Manhattan

27 June 1930
complainant: Dr. L.A. Cranin
173 Henry Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Grade Crossing Train Whistles
Long Island Railroad, Atlantic Ave. Line, Jamaica Station to East New York, Queens

15 April 1931
complainant: Mrs. Eva P. Reynolds
9146 116th Street, Queens

Mrs. Reynolds's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action. Blauvelt wrote to Mrs. Reynolds on 24 April, after having spoken on the telephone with officials from the Pennsylvania Railroad. He was told that all trains were required to sound their whistles at each crossing, but that the motormen would be instructed to "use discretion," assumedly in relation to the loudness and length of the whistle-soundings.

Grade-Crossing Whistles of Long Island Railroad
Along Atlantic Ave., Especially Between Autumn Ave. and Eldert [Lane], Brooklyn

11 March 1931
complainant: Miss Anna E. Thompson
310 Nichols Avenue, Brooklyn

Health Commissioner Dr. Shirley Wynne responded to Miss Thompson's complaint by informing her that a State law required all trains to sound a warning signal at all grade crossings, thus there was nothing his Department could do to abate this nuisance.

Bells, whistles, and the chugging steam power of the Twentieth Century Limited locomotive. (00:42; 1928, location unknown)

Bells, whistles, and the chugging steam power of the Twentieth Century Limited locomotive. (00:42; 1928, location unknown)

Storefronts along "Radio Row" loudly broadcast their wares out into the street. (01:19; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

An elevated train noisily taking a sharp turn in the tracks adds to the din of street traffic and an unhappy dog. (00:31; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Broadway. (03:43; Broadway around Times Square, New York City, 7 December 1929)

A policeman's whistle penetrates the din of traffic as New Yorkers converge on Coney Island on a hot summer day. (00:52; Stillwell and Surf Aves., Coney Island, New York City, 15 June 1930)

IRT Powerhouse Horn
[Near 111 East 19th St., Manhattan]

27 May 1933
complainant: Mrs. H.C. Myers
111 East 19th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Myers's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation. It is assumed the powerhouse of which she complained was somewhere near her residence.

Nightly Shifting of B&O Freight Cars
Railyard Near St. George Ferry, Richmond [Staten Island]

15 February 1932
complainant: I.L. Nascher, M.D.
Home for Dependents, Brielle Avenue, Richmond [Staten Island]

Dr. Nascher wrote from his work address, the Hospital Department of the Home for Dependents (the city's "poor house" and hospital for indigent patients with tuberculosis) on Brielle Avenue, Staten Island. This was not near the St. George Ferry Terminal, but perhaps he lived near the terminal or just passed through it regularly on his commute.

Night-Time Shunting Operation, New York Central Railroad
Vicinity of 344 West 72nd St., Manhattan

23 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Margaret Puntin
344 West 72nd Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Puntin's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Steam Drill
[Near 1112 Park Avenue, Manhattan]

21 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. H.B. Leary
1112 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mrs. Leary apparently did not specify the location of the steam drill that disturbed her, but it was probably somewhere near her home.

Riveting on Building Construction
Around 64 West 12th St., Manhattan

26 August 1930
complainant: Mr. L.E. Dunlop
27-29 West 11th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Drilling and Blasting
80th St. and Lexington Ave., Manhattan

11 December 1931
complainant: Mrs. Harry Faryth
151 East 79th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Riveters Constructing a Building
133 West 79th Street, Manhattan

10 June 1926
complainant: S.S. Moorehead
[Near 133 West 79th Street, Manhattan]

Mr. Moorehead's complaint to Mayor Walker was forwarded to the Department of Health by E.L. Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor. Health Commissioner Dr. Louis Harris replied to Secretary Stanton that this matter would receive consideration.

Riveting
[Near 116 East 56th Street, Manhattan]

19 August 1930
complainant: Charles E. Hausworth
Hotel Fairfax,
116 East 56th Street, Manhattan

Hausworth's letter to the Mayor, which no longer exists, offered suggestions on how to abolish the noise of riveting in building construction. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Drilling in the Street
57th St. Opposite Carnegie Hall, Manhattan

26 July 1927
complainant: Robert Milton
1639 Broadway, Manhattan

Mr. Milton sent his complaint to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Health.

Riveting for Building Construction
[Near 43 Leonard St., Manhattan]

11 March 1929
complainant: B. M. Kohlman
43 Leonard Street, Room 112, Manhattan

Kohlman wrote to the Mayor suggesting that a law be written to eliminate riveting. His letter was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Construction Drills
[Near 88 Central Park West, Manhattan]

6 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Frederick Bierhoff
88 Central Park West, Manhattan

In her letter to Mayor Walker, which is not extant, Mrs. Bierhoff suggested that "silencers" be deployed on construction drills. Her suggestion was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Shirley Wynne.

Riveting in Building Construction
[Near 111 East 48th St., Manhattan]

7 August 1930
complainant: Warren T. Montgomery, Managing Director, The Barclay
111 East 48th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Montgomery wrote to Mayor Walker, calling for the abolishment of riveting in building construction. His letter was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Workers operate pneumatic jackhammers as they repair trolley tracks. (00:32; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Riveters fasten together steel girders. (00:40; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

The noisy construction of the Chrysler Building is observed from the top of the Chanin Building. (00:28; 112 East 42nd St., New York City, 5 August 1929)

Excavation Work
Opposite 755 West End Avenue, Manhattan

22 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Abraham Weilar, Counselor at Law
755 West End Avenue, Manhattan

Weilar had complained that the noisy work near his home began as early as 6:45 A.M. Commissioner Wynne responded that the City's official "hours of rest" are from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM, thus contractors were allowed to make necessary work-related noise from 6:00 AM onward.

Early Morning Steam Shovel Operation
East of 71 West 12th St., Manhattan

11 December 1930
complainant: Lorens Logan
71 West 12th Street, Manhattan

Perhaps because Logan invoked his colleague - famed trial lawyer Isidore Kresel - in his letter of complaint, Health Commissioner Wynne phoned Mr. Logan twice upon receipt of his letter to discuss his complaint. Health Squad inspector Eugene Howard was sent to survey the situation the following day. The inspector noted that excavation work was now completed and the engineer in charge indicated that they had never started work before 7:30 AM. He also indicated that pile driving would soon begin on the site, necessarily creating more noise over the coming several weeks.

Steam Excavator for Building Construction
2 West 88th Street, Manhattan

12 September 1930
complainant: Dr. R.C. Coburn
Hotel Brewster,
12 West 86th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Steam Shovel
SE Corner of 16th St. and Third Ave., Manhattan

20 August 1930
complainant: Mr. A. Schneider
201 East 16th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Schneider wrote from his work address at the La Minuette Trading Company, on 16th Street.

Steam Shovel
Madison Avenue and 31st Street, Manhattan

15 August 1930
complainant: Dr. John H. O'Connor
23 East 30th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Steam Shovel
Vicinity of 51 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

7 July 1931
complainant: Mr. Ernest Tribelhorn
51 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Steam Shovel
[Near 2715 Grand Concourse, Bronx]

30 October 1928
complainant: Joseph Huberman
2715 Grand Concourse, Bronx

Mr. Huberman's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Steam Shovels
Rear of 788 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

10 September 1929
complainant: Mrs. Guy Crosby Peterson
788 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Mrs. Peterson's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention. Mrs. Peterson would complain again, in September of 1931, about noise near her residence.

Steam Shovel
Near 96 East 208th St., Bronx

8 December 1931
complainant: Mrs. Rose Cohn
96 East 208th Street, Bronx

Mrs. Cohn's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Hon. Thomas F. McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention.

Early-Morning Steam Shovel
Rear of 152 East 58th St., Manhattan

16 July 1929
complainant: Jack Kreindel
152 East 58th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Kreindel's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Night Traffic; Early Morning Steam Shovel Operation; and Loose Planks in the Road
Neighborhood of Ft. Washington Ave, Between 178th and 179th Sts., Manhattan

17 December 1930
complainant: Hon. David C. Lewis
Municipal Court, 7th District
427 Fort Washington Avenue, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne responded personally to Judge Lewis's complaint, regretting that his Department was unable to take action about traffic noises as this was a matter for the Police to handle. He also indicated that, although contractors were allowed to begin work in the City at 6 AM, he would send a health inspector to investigate the situation and see if they could begin at a later hour. A follow-up letter to the Judge dated 30 December 1930 (which may not have been sent) indicated that a Health Squad Patrolman determined that the loose planking was now nailed down and that the steam shovel working in the area didn't begin operation until 7:00 A.M.

Excavation via dynamite for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Excavation via steam shovel for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

A steam-powered pile driver sinks a shaft for the foundation of a new building as a steam shovel excavates the site. (01:36; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

Boring Machine of Crimmins Operation Co.
East 34th St. and Park Ave., Manhattan

11 March 1931
complainant: Miss Marion Saunders
32 East 35th Street, Manhattan

The boring machine was at work on the foundation of the former Community Church. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Sinking of Caissons, Night and Day
[East] 238th Street Bridge [MacLean and Nereid Avenues], Bronx

9 June 1930
complainant: Mr. J. A. Conniff
4327 Webster Avenue, Bronx

Mr. Conniff's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention. Conniff wrote again, around 23 June 1930, to complain of the noise of this bridge construction project, specifying that there was noise between the hours of 10:00-11:00 P.M., 2:00-3:00 A.M., and 5:00-6:00 A.M.

A steam-powered pile driver sinks a shaft for the foundation of a new building as a steam shovel excavates the site. (01:36; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

Drilling and Blasting
80th St. and Lexington Ave., Manhattan

11 December 1931
complainant: Mrs. Harry Faryth
151 East 79th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Digging and Blasting
58th St., Between Sixth and Seventh Aves., Manhattan

2 November 1932
complainant: Mr. Pierre V. Key
119 West 57th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Key wrote from his office at Musical Publications Inc., which was near the reported noise. His complaint would have been forwarded to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

"Blasts"
East 53rd Street, Manhattan

16 November 1927
complainant: Anonymous
[Near East 53rd Street, Manhattan]

This anonymous complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Health.

Radio Noise, Also "Blasting" by the Water Department
Vicinity of 167 Washington Park, Brooklyn

3 July 1930
complainant: Mr. L.W. Stewart
167 Washington Park, Brooklyn

Mr. Stewart's complaints were sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

James Murray, Blasting Foreman, compares the city's subway extension project to the digging of the Panama Canal. (00:40; Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Excavation via dynamite for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Excavation Work
Opposite 755 West End Avenue, Manhattan

22 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Abraham Weilar, Counselor at Law
755 West End Avenue, Manhattan

Weilar had complained that the noisy work near his home began as early as 6:45 A.M. Commissioner Wynne responded that the City's official "hours of rest" are from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM, thus contractors were allowed to make necessary work-related noise from 6:00 AM onward.

Excavation via steam shovel for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

A steam-powered pile driver sinks a shaft for the foundation of a new building as a steam shovel excavates the site. (01:36; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

Construction workers on the Chrysler Building describe their work far above the sounds of the city below them. (00:34; 405 Lexington Ave., New York City, 20 November 1929)

Night-Time Running of Compressor and Pump At Construction Site Near Woodward Hotel, 55th Street and Broadway, Manhattan

20 March 1930
complainant: J. Franklin Boreland
1776 Broadway, Manhattan

Mr. Boreland's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Construction workers on the Chrysler Building describe their work far above the sounds of the city below them. (00:34; 405 Lexington Ave., New York City, 20 November 1929)

Construction of Gas Tank
Opposite 420 East 20th St., Manhattan

4 October 1926
complainant: Miss Helen Powell
420 East 20th Street, Manhattan

Miss Powell's complaint to Mayor Walker was forwarded to the Department of Health by E.L. Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor, for "such attention as you may deem proper or necessary."

Workers operate pneumatic jackhammers as they repair trolley tracks. (00:32; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Radio Fiends
552 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn

24 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Florence Chrystal
307 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn

Mrs. Chrystal's complaint was referred to Dr. James F. Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, who sent inspectors on two separate occasions. No undue noise was discovered by these men, but Mrs. Chrystal wrote back to indicate that conditions were much improved due to the "forceful warnings" of the inspectors.

Radio Loudspeaker
Near 365 East 32nd Street, Brooklyn

8 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Albert Kuelling, Secretary, Vanderveer Park Taxpayers Assn.
1266 New York Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Nuisance
137 Montague Street, Brooklyn

26 June 1930
complainant: Miss Mabel Holman
96 Pierrepont Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Nuisance
Near 110 West 143rd Street, Manhattan

25 June 1930
complainant: Mr. W.A. Domingo
110 West 143rd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Nuisance
315 West 86th Street, Manhattan

25 June 1930
complainant: Mr. Allen Sinclair Will
309 West 86th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Restaurant, 438 68th Street and Radio Loudspeaker, North Side of 69th St., Brooklyn

24 June 1930
complainant: Mr. John S. Butler
[Near 438 68th Street, Brooklyn]

While the action taken in response to Mr. Butler's complaint is not recorded, on 10 July 1930, Wynne wrote to Butler noting that he was glad to hear that the problem was solved. Butler, a city engineer, wrote from his work address in the Municipal Building. He probably lived somewhere in Brooklyn near the noises of which he complained.

Radio Nuisance
Near 1206 Church Road, Broad Channel, Queens

23 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Emma L. Davis
1206 Church Road, Broad Channel, Queens

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action." While Mrs. David did not specify the location of the radio nuisance, it was probably somewhere close to her residence.

Radio Nuisance
Near 30 West 54th Street, Manhattan

20 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. A.W. Kempner
30 West 54th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." While Mrs. Kempner did not specify the location of the radio nuisance, it was probably somewhere near her residence.

Radio Nuisance
[Near 260 Seaman Avenue, Manhattan]

12 June 1930
complainant: Mr. C.T. Hallenbeck
260 Seaman Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." While Mr. Hallenbeck did not specify the location of the radio nuisance, it was probably somewhere near his residence.

Recharging of Batteries
Apartment Above Complainant at 206 East 32nd St., Manhattan

12 June 1930
complainant: Miss K.M. Wier
206 East 32nd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Nuisance
[Near 255 West 33rd Street, Manhattan]

12 June 1930
complainant: Mr. John J. Lynch
255 West 33rd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Lynch did not specify the location of the radio nuisance, but it was probably somewhere near his residence.

Radio Nuisance
[Near 253 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn]

27 May 1930
complainant: Miss E.E. Field
253 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action." Miss Field apparently did not specify the location of the radio nuisance but it was probably somewhere near her residence.

Radio Nuisance
[Near 703 Grand Street, Brooklyn]

20 May 1930
complainant: Dr. George Freiman
703 Grand Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action." Dr. Freiman apparently did not specify the location of the radio that disturbed him, but it was probably somewhere near his residence.

Radio Nuisance
[Near 249 West 34th Street, Manhattan]

12 May 1930
complainant: Mr. C.E. Davenport
249 West 34th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Davenport wrote from his work address at the Seaboard Coal Company on West 34th Street. He did not specify a location for his noise complaint, so it is assumed the noise is near or around his place of work. Complaints like Davenport's, about noises in the Borough of Manhattan, were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Nuisance
[Near 96 Pierrepont Street, Brooklyn]

9 May 1930
complainant: Miss Mabel Holman
96 Pierrepont Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action." Miss Holman apparently did not specify the location of the radio that disturbed her, but it was probably somewhere near her home.

Radio Nuisance
224 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn

12 May 1930
complainant: Mrs. Edith M. Whitaker
472 Bergen Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Nuisance
[Near 95 East 18th Street, Brooklyn]

12 May 1930
complainant: Mrs. Fifi M. Wood
95 East 18th Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mrs. Wood apparently did not specify the location of the radio that disturbed her (at times a difficult, even impossible, task), but it was probably somewhere near her home.

Radio Nuisance
[Near 2537 Amsterdam Avenue, Manhattan]

12 May 1930
complainant: Mrs. R.W. Houston
2537 Amsterdam Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mrs. Houston did not specify the location of the radio that disturbed her (at times a difficult if not impossible task), but it was probably somewhere near her home.

Radio Nuisance
[Near 1813 Greene Avenue, Queens]

9 May 1930
complainant: Mrs. Winifred T. Fox
1813 Greene Avenue, Queens

Mrs. Fox's complaint was first forwarded to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, but he returned the complaint to Commissioner Wynne, pointing out that her neighborhood of Ridgewood was in Queens, not Brooklyn, thus not in his jurisdiction. The complaint would then have been forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry. Mrs. Fox apparently did not specify the location of the radio that disturbed her, but it was probably somewhere near her home.

Radio Loudspeaker
Neighborhood of 850 Hewitt Place, Bronx

9 May 1930
complainant: Miss Shirley Margolis
850 Hewitt Place, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Nuisance
[Near 712 West 175th Street, Manhattan]

1 May 1930
complainant: Mrs. Hugo Walther
712 West 175th Street, Apt. 4H, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mrs. Walther apparently did not specify the location of the radio that disturbed her, but it was probably somewhere near her home.

Radio Nuisance
[Near 215 West 75th Street, Manhattan]

29 April 1930
complainant: Miss Marion Irving
215 West 75th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Miss Irving apparently did not specify the location of the radio that disturbed her, but it was probably somewhere near her home.

Radio Nuisance
2790 Broadway [at 108th St.], Manhattan

19 April 1930
complainant: Miss Ruth Burcheval
65 East 56th Street, Manhattan

Miss Brucheval wrote from her work address at the American Folk Dance Society, 65 East 56th Street, Manhattan. Perhaps she lived uptown near the noise of which she complained.

Radio Nuisance
[Near 386 West 125th Street, Manhattan]

17 April 1930
complainant: Miss Rose Collins
386 West 125th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." While Miss Collins did not specify the location of the radio nuisance that bothered her, it was probably somewhere near her residence.

Radio Nuisance
[Near 90-10 170th Street, Jamaica, Queens]

16 April 1930
complainant: Miss Ruby M. Stoutenburg
90-10 170th Street, Queens

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action." While Miss Stoutenburg did not specify the location of the radio nuisance that bothered her, it was probably somewhere near her residence.

Radio Loudspeakers
Near 58 West 36th Street, Manhattan

14 April 1930
complainant: Mrs. A. Wadsworth
58 West 36th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Wadsworth clearly looked forward to the enforcement of the new amendment to the City's Sanitary Code (Section 215-a), which would forbid such disturbing noises from radio and phonograph loudspeakers.

Radio Loudspeaker
House Adjoining 2234 Ryer Ave., Bronx

20 March 1930
complainant: Mrs. George J. Fitzpatrick
2234 Ryer Avenue, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Noise
[Near 593 Ninth Avenue, Manhattan]

3 March 1930
complainant: Mr. George H. Bolton
593 Ninth Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Bolton did not specify the location of the radio that disturbed him, but it was probably somewhere near his residence.

Radio Loudspeaker
Apartment #2, 139 West 116th Street, Manhattan

27 February 1930
complainant: Dr. Alfred Langmann, M.D.
108 East 68th Street, Manhattan

Dr. Langmann's return address was listed on East 68th Street. Perhaps he lived uptown near the noise he complained of, and wrote from his mid-town work address, or vice-versa.

Radio Loudspeaker
[Near 1 Marble Hill Avenue, Bronx]

27 February 1930
complainant: Mrs. L. Kellogg
1 Marble Hill Avenue, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mrs. Kellogg apparently did not specify the location of the radio that bothered her, but it was probably near her home.

Radio Loudspeakers
[Near 165 Tompkins Avenue, Brooklyn]

21 February 1930
complainant: Mrs. Charlotte Adest
165 Tompkins Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mrs. Adest apparently did not specify the location of the radios that bothered her, but they were probably somewhere near her home.

Radio Loudspeaker
41 West 72nd Street, Manhattan

9 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. S.B. Denny
37 West 72nd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Loudspeaker
[Near 7201 Ridge Boulevard, Brooklyn]

6 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. E. Hoctor
7201 Ridge Boulevard, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mrs. Hoctor apparently did not specify the location of the radio that disturbed her, but it was probably somewhere near her home.

Radio Loudspeaker and Barking Dogs of Mr. Karl Schneider
4342 Ely Avenue, Bronx

23 September 1930
complainant: Mr. G.S. Clarke and Petitioners
4346 Ely Avenue, Bronx

Mr. Clarke's petition of complaint, which was written to Police Commissioner Edward Mulrooney, was forwarded to the Health Department, which referred the matter to Dr. Arthur J. O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx. A week later, the subject of complaint, Mr. Karl Schneider, wrote back to defend his actions and to complain of his treatment by both his neighbors and the police who had investigated their complaint.

Radio Loudspeaker and Barking Police Dogs of a Tenant named Huffman
Apt. 2J at 1070 Anderson Ave., Bronx

22 September 1930
complainant: Mrs. Charles Leonard, On Behalf of Her Friend, Mrs. Charles Clarke, Owner
1060 Anderson Avenue, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Nuisance
340-342 West 26th Street, Manhattan

12 August 1930
complainant: Rev. Thomas A. Thornton, Pastor
Saint Columbus Church
343 West 25th Street, Manhattan

Rev. Thornton had previously complained of this same noise, around 9 May 1930.

Radio in an Apartment
340 West 26th Street, Manhattan

9 May 1930
complainant: Rev. Thomas A. Thornton, Pastor
Saint Columbus Church
343 West 25th Street, Manhattan

Rev. Thornton's complaint was investigated around 15 May 1930 by a member of the Health Squad, who visited the premises and "abated the radio noise through personal effort." Apparently the abatement was only temporary, for Rev. Thornton would complain again of this same noise on 12 August 1930.

Radio Nuisance
Near 201 West 92nd Street, Manhattan

11 December 1931
complainant: Mrs. G.W. Little
201 West 92nd Street, Manhattan

Apparently following up on an earlier complaint, Commissioner Wynne wrote to Mrs. Little on 11 December 1931, noting that a member of the Health Squad had investigated the complaint and reported the noise as abated.

Radio Nuisances
Near 20-79 32nd St., Astoria, Queens

22 November 1931
complainant: Mr. Edward J. Reagan
20-79 32nd Street, Astoria, Queens

Mr. Reagan, who noted that he once moved four times in five weeks in attempting to escape the nuisance of radio loudspeakers, wrote to Health Commissioner Wynne to suggest a means by which to increase the effectiveness of the new amendment to the Sanitary Code, Section 215a, which specifically outlawed such radio noise. Reagan suggested that signs be posted in every apartment building throughout the city notifying the occupants of the content of the Code. Dr. Wynne replied that, while the new law did indeed apply to apartment house abusers of loudspeakers, it was mainly intended to curtail the commercial practice of radio shops broadcasting loudspeaker noises out into the streets. Wynne added it would be impractical to post signs in every building in New York.

Radio Nuisance
2525 Beverly Road, Brooklyn

30 November 1931
complainant: Robert Grimshaw
2525 Beverly Road, Brooklyn

Grimshaw wrote to Commissioner Wynne regarding a previous request for assistance on behalf of two ladies of his acquaintence who were plagued by a loud radio playing in their apartment building at 2525 Beverly Road. He informed Wynne that the women had canceled their lease and were considering moving to Scarsdale, while the landlord planned to sue the offending tenant for damages. Grimshaw pointed out his own record of failure in attempting to to sue other noise-offenders, and asked if "a dictaphone record" might be useful in any future court cases. According to James Flexner, the Noise Abatement Commission received a letter from Mr. Grimshaw "about once a week," and stopped answering them "long ago." Commissioner Wynne was advised not to respond, and it is not evident that he did so.

Radio Loudspeakers Late at Night
[Everywhere, and Near 775 Westminster Rd, Brooklyn]

3 September 1931
complainant: Robert Grimshaw
775 Westminster Road, Brooklyn

Mr. Grimshaw, who apparently wrote quite regularly to the Noise Abatement Commission, contacted Commissioner Wynne to suggest how beat policemen might better locate the sources of late-night loudspeaker nuisances. He also suggested that radio stations broadcast a message requesting listeners to lower the volume of their radios late at night. Dr. Wynne replied that the Health Department had indeed received the cooperation of various broadcasting stations in the way that Grimshaw had suggested.

Dancing Lessons by Miss Delza
128 West 73rd Street, Manhattan

24 June 1931
complainant: Horace M. Carter
115-119 West 66th Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne informed Mr. Carter that 128 West 73rd Street was a residential zone where business activities were not allowed and that he should report the violation to the Bureau of Buildings in the Municipal Building at Centre and Worth Streets.

Radios at 131 West 94th Street and 130 West 95th Street; Singer at 146 West 95th Street; Barking Dogs at 146 West 95th Street and 135 West 94th Street; Drinking Party at 135 West 94th Street; and Newsboys Crying Headlines
[Neighborhood of 130s West 95th St., Manhattan]

21 June 1932
complainant: [illegible]
[Neighborhood of 130s-140s West 94th Street?]

On 5 July 1932, the Dept. of Health tried to contact a man named Wilson regarding an illegibly-signed letter of complaint dated 21 June, but the Department's letter - sent to the Hotel Victoria, Seventh Avenue and 51st Street, Manhattan - was returned, indicating that no such guest was registered there. The same man, once again signing his name illegibly and this time giving no return address, wrote back on 22 July to reiterate his complaint.

Radio Loudspeakers in Tenement Houses
[No Location Indicated]

31 January 1932
complainant: A.S.M.
[No Return Address Given]

With no full name nor return address nor specific location for the noise complained of, the Department of Health had no means to respond to this complaint in any specific way.

Radio Nuisance
Near 37 West 72nd Street, Manhattan

29 January 1932
complainant: Mr. E.W. Estes, Central Park West and Columbus Ave. Assn.,
On Behalf of Mr. R.E. LaBarre
37 West 72nd Street, Manhattan

Mr. Estes was informed that his complaint had been referred to Lieutenant O'Brien, in charge of the Health Squad, for investigation.

Trucks; Barking Dog at 55 West 90th St.; Residential Radio at 49 West 90th St.; Radio Store at 14th St. bet. B'way and Third Ave; Davegas Radio Stores on 42nd St. and 86th at B'way; City Radio on 42nd Street, and 86th at B'way; Radio Store, NW Corner of 59th St. and Lexington; Radio Store, NW Corner of 52nd St. and B'way; Radio Store at 50th St. and Eighth Ave.; Two Radio Stores, South Side of 42nd St. West of 3rd Ave; Radio Store at 99th St. and Columbus Ave.; Loudspeakers at Hollywood Store, 48th St. and B'way; Shoe-Shine Store, 48th St. and B'way; Loudspeakers, Tango Dance Hall, 65th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Dance Hall, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Radio Store, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers Broadcasting From Planes and Cars
[Throughout Manhattan]

26 January 1932
complainant: Gertrude Heyman [?]
[No Return Address Provided]

Gertrude's signed last name is difficult to read, but a Gertrude Heyman had previously contacted the Health Department to complain about noise in 1930. That woman lived on West 85th Street, somewhat near many of the complaints listed here. Since this 1933 letter did not include a return address indicating where she lived, her complaint was not acknowledged by the Department of Health and it is not evident if any of these many complaints were investigated.

Radio Nuisance
1315 42nd Street, Brooklyn

22 April 1930
complainant: M. Marcus
1318 42nd Street, Brooklyn

Marcus's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter had been referred to the Sanitary Superintendent, "for investigation and appropriate action."

Radio "Racket" Above and Alongside Complainant's Apartment
95 Linden Boulevard, Brooklyn

20 November 1930
complainant: Mrs. R. (Marjorie Z.) Sigel
95 Linden Boulevard, Brooklyn

Mrs. Sigel's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention. Mrs. Sigel had previously complained, in June of 1930, about noisy traffic. Having now moved to a new location, she seems to have escaped the noise of traffic, but only to encounter noisy radios.

Radio Noises at Night
[Near 33 Bank St., Manhattan]

6 October 1927
complainant: W. Boehm
33 Bank Street, Apt. 24, Manhattan

Mr. Boehm also drafted a letter of complaint to the newspapers, and he included a copy of it with his letter to the Mayor. His correspondence was forwarded to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Health.

Radio Loud Speakers
[Near 2 Lafayette St., Manhattan]

12 November 1929
complainant: Robert Ferrari
2 Lafayette Street, Manhattan

Mr. Ferrari's complaint, which included suggestions for the abatement of radio loud speaker noise, was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. The original letter is no longer extant, thus the content of his suggestions is unknown.

Radio in Apt. 44, "Which Plays Continuously and Very Loudly"
600 West 192nd Street, Manhattan

26 May 1930
complainant: Elie Fraggi
600 West 192nd Street, Manhattan

Fraggi's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Fraggi apparently moved sometime between May of 1930 and May 1932, but in his new apartment in Queens, he was once again plagued by a radio fiend overhead, as he wrote again to the Mayor to complain some time around 11 May 1932.

Radio Noise, Also "Blasting" by the Water Department
Vicinity of 167 Washington Park, Brooklyn

3 July 1930
complainant: Mr. L.W. Stewart
167 Washington Park, Brooklyn

Mr. Stewart's complaints were sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Radio in Apartment 3K
32-16 Crescent Street, Astoria, Queens

11 May 1932
complainant: Elie Fraggi
32-16 Crescent Street, Queens

Mr. Fraggi's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Fraggi had complained of a different radio, around 26 May 1930, when he wrote from 600 West 192nd Street. While he had apparently moved to Queens in the intervening years, he unfortunately ended up in another apartment plagued by proximity to a radio fiend.

Playing of Pianos, Radios, and Victrolas Until 3:00 or 4:00 In the Morning
Neighborhood of 439 East 51st St., Manhattan

8 July 1932
complainant: Mr. Holton Herr
439 East 51st Street, Manhattan

Mr. Herr's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Playing of Pianos, Radios, and Victrolas Until 3:00 or 4:00 In the Morning
Neighborhood of 439 East 51st St., Manhattan

8 July 1932
complainant: Mr. Holton Herr
439 East 51st Street, Manhattan

Mr. Herr's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Playing of Pianos, Radios, and Victrolas Until 3:00 or 4:00 In the Morning
Neighborhood of 439 East 51st St., Manhattan

8 July 1932
complainant: Mr. Holton Herr
439 East 51st Street, Manhattan

Mr. Herr's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Cornet-Player
Adjacent to 897 East 176th Street, Bronx

26 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Lee S. Parks
897 East 176th Street, Apt. 3E, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Saxophone-Player
56 West 105th Street, Manhattan

8 July 1930
complainant: Mrs. F.H. Apory
58 West 105th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Saxophone
2955 Nostrand Avenue, Brooklyn

8 April 1930
complainant: Mrs. Ethel Kirby and Petitioners
2955 Nostrand Avenue, Brooklyn

Commissioner Wynne replied that the complaint was referred to Dr. James F. Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Brooklyn, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Bugle and Drum Corp of the Hebrew Orphans Asylum
Amsterdam Ave. between 136th and 138th Sts., Manhattan

19 March 1930
complainant: Robert L. Winkley
610 West 139th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Winkley had written to complain of this noise in November of 1929, and he wrote back to the Commissioner of Health in March of 1930 to report that, after a cessation of the "damnable din," the noise of the drum and bugle corp of the Hebrew Orphan Asylum had returned, "shattering the peace and quiet of Sunday mornings with the blare of bugles, and the beating of drums, and the incessant marching around in military formation." Commissioner Wynne asked former Commissioner of Health Thomas Darlington to visit the Asylum and speak to its supervisor about the noise. The outcome is unrecorded.

Man Who Plays Piano All Night
128 East 93rd Street, Manhattan

22 August 1930
complainant: Miss Sarah Harrison
131 East 93rd Street, Manhattan

Health Commissioner Wynne acknowledged receipt of Miss Harrison's complaint and noted that it was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, "for appropriate action."

Late-Night Piano-Playing Neighbor
Near 240 East 31st St., Manhattan

5 December 1931
complainant: M.J. Warren
240 East 31st Street, Manhattan

Warren wrote to Commissioner Wynne to thank him for sending an officer to see his "annoying musical neighbor," who now ceased his musicking, "with an emphasised cord," promptly at eleven o'clock each night. Warren wrote from the office of Nutritional Lunch, Chapel of the Incarnation, on East 31st Street, Manhattan. It is not evident if his music-plagued residence was here or elsewhere.

Continual Playing of Organ at Carleton Theatre
[292 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn]

13 March 1928
complainant: Thomas F. Dugan
135 Park Place, Brooklyn

Mr. Dugan sent his complaint to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Playing of Pianos, Radios, and Victrolas Until 3:00 or 4:00 In the Morning
Neighborhood of 439 East 51st St., Manhattan

8 July 1932
complainant: Mr. Holton Herr
439 East 51st Street, Manhattan

Mr. Herr's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Noisy Neighbors Who Sit on the Stoop and Make Noise All Night
567 Fox Road, Bronx

5 June 1930
complainant: Samuel Rosenfeld
567 Fox Street, Bronx

Commissioner Wynne sent Mr. Rosenfeld a form letter outlining how to bring suit against his noisy neighbors under Chapter 23, Article 12, Section 130 of the Code of Ordinances. The letter also suggested contacting the local Precinct of Police for help in documenting the nuisance.

Noisy Late-Night Parties in Complainant's Apartment Building
522 Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn

27 January 1930
complainant: Mr. Leroy W. Brooks
522 Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn

Brooks complained of the "constant racketeering" of late-night parties in his apartment building, particularly the "maniacal laughter" of a woman in an apartment near his own, which was "enough to drive one mad." Commissioner Wynne responded that the noise fell under the strictures of the Penal Code, not the Sanitary Code, thus he should have a summons issued to take the offending parties (so to speak) to court.

Radios at 131 West 94th Street and 130 West 95th Street; Singer at 146 West 95th Street; Barking Dogs at 146 West 95th Street and 135 West 94th Street; Drinking Party at 135 West 94th Street; and Newsboys Crying Headlines
[Neighborhood of 130s West 95th St., Manhattan]

21 June 1932
complainant: [illegible]
[Neighborhood of 130s-140s West 94th Street?]

On 5 July 1932, the Dept. of Health tried to contact a man named Wilson regarding an illegibly-signed letter of complaint dated 21 June, but the Department's letter - sent to the Hotel Victoria, Seventh Avenue and 51st Street, Manhattan - was returned, indicating that no such guest was registered there. The same man, once again signing his name illegibly and this time giving no return address, wrote back on 22 July to reiterate his complaint.

Early Morning Noise of Rooster and Dog
Neighborhood of 30 Seaman Ave., Manhattan

18 January 1930
complainant: Mr. E. Spilka
30 Seaman Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Spilka was informed that his complaint was referred to an Assistant Sanitary Superintendent, "for investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Loudspeaker and Barking Dogs of Mr. Karl Schneider
4342 Ely Avenue, Bronx

23 September 1930
complainant: Mr. G.S. Clarke and Petitioners
4346 Ely Avenue, Bronx

Mr. Clarke's petition of complaint, which was written to Police Commissioner Edward Mulrooney, was forwarded to the Health Department, which referred the matter to Dr. Arthur J. O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx. A week later, the subject of complaint, Mr. Karl Schneider, wrote back to defend his actions and to complain of his treatment by both his neighbors and the police who had investigated their complaint.

Radio Loudspeaker and Barking Police Dogs of a Tenant named Huffman
Apt. 2J at 1070 Anderson Ave., Bronx

22 September 1930
complainant: Mrs. Charles Leonard, On Behalf of Her Friend, Mrs. Charles Clarke, Owner
1060 Anderson Avenue, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Barking Dogs in a Back Yard
Near 559 Madison Street, Brooklyn

15 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Alfred Cochran
559 Madison Street, Brooklyn

Commissioner Wynne forwarded Cochran's letter, which discussed the health dangers posed by domestic pets, to Dr. Charles Bolduan, Director of the Bureau of Health Education. Bolduan wrote back to Cochran generally agreeing that pets did indeed spread disease to humans.

Barking Dogs Owned by Mr. Love
107 Post Ave., Apt 3D, Manhattan

17 October 1932
complainant: Mrs. Dolan
107 Post Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Three Barking Dogs
802 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn

27 July 1932
complainant: Mr. Thomas Holland
555 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn

Mr. Holland's original complaint pre-dated 27 July 1932, as on that date he wrote to complain about the lack of action against an earlier complaint about the barking dogs. He believed no action was taken because the dogs' owner was a Police Sergeant. On 10 August, Wynne wrote to inform Mr. Holland that the dogs had been removed from the premises, but one of the animals must have returned later, because Mr. Holland complained again in September 1932, and subsequent to further inspections, a dog was once again removed.

Radios at 131 West 94th Street and 130 West 95th Street; Singer at 146 West 95th Street; Barking Dogs at 146 West 95th Street and 135 West 94th Street; Drinking Party at 135 West 94th Street; and Newsboys Crying Headlines
[Neighborhood of 130s West 95th St., Manhattan]

21 June 1932
complainant: [illegible]
[Neighborhood of 130s-140s West 94th Street?]

On 5 July 1932, the Dept. of Health tried to contact a man named Wilson regarding an illegibly-signed letter of complaint dated 21 June, but the Department's letter - sent to the Hotel Victoria, Seventh Avenue and 51st Street, Manhattan - was returned, indicating that no such guest was registered there. The same man, once again signing his name illegibly and this time giving no return address, wrote back on 22 July to reiterate his complaint.

Trucks; Barking Dog at 55 West 90th St.; Residential Radio at 49 West 90th St.; Radio Store at 14th St. bet. B'way and Third Ave; Davegas Radio Stores on 42nd St. and 86th at B'way; City Radio on 42nd Street, and 86th at B'way; Radio Store, NW Corner of 59th St. and Lexington; Radio Store, NW Corner of 52nd St. and B'way; Radio Store at 50th St. and Eighth Ave.; Two Radio Stores, South Side of 42nd St. West of 3rd Ave; Radio Store at 99th St. and Columbus Ave.; Loudspeakers at Hollywood Store, 48th St. and B'way; Shoe-Shine Store, 48th St. and B'way; Loudspeakers, Tango Dance Hall, 65th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Dance Hall, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Radio Store, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers Broadcasting From Planes and Cars
[Throughout Manhattan]

26 January 1932
complainant: Gertrude Heyman [?]
[No Return Address Provided]

Gertrude's signed last name is difficult to read, but a Gertrude Heyman had previously contacted the Health Department to complain about noise in 1930. That woman lived on West 85th Street, somewhat near many of the complaints listed here. Since this 1933 letter did not include a return address indicating where she lived, her complaint was not acknowledged by the Department of Health and it is not evident if any of these many complaints were investigated.

Night-Time Barking of Three Dogs
479 Essex Street, Brooklyn

19 September 1928
complainant: Anonymous
[Near 479 Essex Street, Brooklyn]

This anonymous complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Barking Dog Owned by Mrs. Matney
338 West 46th Street, Manhattan

11 April 1929
complainant: Mrs. Van Ralte
325 West 45th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Van Ralte contacted the office of the Mayor in March of 1929, complaining of the Health Department's lack of action concerning a previous complaint she made in January 1929 about a barking dog owned by a neighbor, Mrs. Matney. Van Ralte asserted that Matney boasted that she had bribed the Health Inspector. The Mayor's office telephoned the Health Department to inquire about the complaint, and Commissioner Wynne wrote back on 11 April 1929, explaining that several inspections were made in response to Van Ralte's initial complaint. The Inspector reported that he found no cause for action when he made his inspections, but nonetheless warned Matney that she would be issued a summons if she permitted her dog to annoy people in the neighborhood. The Manager of the hotel in which Van Ralte resided had informed the Inspector at that time that "Mrs. Van Ralte was constantly complaining about everything," and indicated that there was no problem as far as he was concerned.

Dog, "Owned by One Fishoni," Who Barks Day and Night
102-37 Drive [102 37th Ave.], Corona, Queens

29 July 1927
complainant: Anonymous
[Near 102-37 Drive [102 37th Avenue], Queens]

This anonymous complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Health.

Barking Dog Owned by Janitress
510 West 162nd St., Manhattan

13 November 1930
complainant: Mr. T. M. Sullivan
510 West 162nd Street, Manhattan

Mr. Sullivan's complaint, which he apparently marked as "confidential," was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Incessant Night-Time Barking of Dog
[Near 945 41st Street, Brooklyn]

24 May 1932
complainant: Mr. Joseph Scovell
945 41st Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Scovel's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

An elevated train noisily taking a sharp turn in the tracks adds to the din of street traffic and an unhappy dog. (00:31; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

The neighborhood noise of street vendors and sidewalk shoppers on the Lower East Side. (00:31; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Street cleaners on the Lower East Side are interrupted by a barking dog. (00:23; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Outdoor Loudspeaker at a Radio Shop
2166 Westchester Avenue, Bronx

13 May 1930
complainant: Mrs. E. Timmerhaus
1321 Castle Hill Avenue, Bronx

Commissioner Wynne acknowledged receipt of Mrs. Timmerhous's complaint, and informed her that it had been forwarded to Dr. Arthur O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, for investigation and appropriate action.

Radio Shop Loudspeaker
60 Dey Street, Manhattan

7 May 1930
complainant: Mr. Clifford S. Merrifield
30 Church Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." This block of Dey Street, between Church and Greenwich Streets, was torn down when the World Trade Center was built.

Radio Shop Loudspeaker
60 Dey Street, Manhattan

6 May 1930
complainant: Plompton Miller
30 Church Street, Manhattan

Mr. Miller wrote back to Commissioner Wynne after receiving acknowledgement of his complaint, thanking him for his prompt attention. His complaint would have been forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." This block of Dey Street, between Church and Greenwich Streets, was torn down when the World Trade Center was built.

Radio Shop Loudspeaker
80 West Kingsbridge Road, Bronx

1 April 1930
complainant: Mr. Joseph Thins
2690 University Avenue, Bronx

Joseph Thins (possibly Thims) sent his letter of complaint by Special Delivery in late March 1930. The matter was referred to Dr. Arthur O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, "for action and report." On 5 May 1930, Commissioner Wynne reported to Thins that a Sanitary Police Officer instructed the manager of the radio shop to "tone down" his radio. Upon reinspection, the officer noted that the radio had been moved inside the store and that the complainant was now satisfied with the situation.

Radio Shop Loudspeaker
2671 Broadway [Near 101st St.], Manhattan

25 April 1930
complainant: Mr. A.B. Holt
215 West 101st Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Shop Loudspeaker
[Near 300 West 21st Street, Manhattan]

11 April 1930
complainant: Mr. James P. Dowling
300 West 21st Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Shop Loudspeakers
219 and 226 West 34th Street, Manhattan

24 February 1930
complainant: Mr. R.L. Vaughn
215-217 West 34th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Shop Loudspeaker
Ground Floor of 4842 Broadway [at Academy Street], Manhattan

18 February 1930
complainant: Mr. Joseph Meyer
4842 Broadway, Manhattan

Mr. Meyer lived above a noisy radio shop. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Shop Loudspeaker
[Near 4306 46th Street, Long Island City, Queens]

15 February 1930
complainant: Mr. S. Bernstein
4306 46th Street, Queens

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Bernstein apparently did not specify the location of the loudspeaker that disturbed him, but it was probably somewhere near his home.

Radio Shop Loudspeaker
810 Broadway, Manhattan

27 January 1930
complainant: Mr. Henry Bern
799 Broadway, Manhattan

Mr. Bern wrote from his work address at the St. Denis Offices Corporation, near the source of his complaint. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Music Studio
14 East 50th Street, Manhattan

19 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Charles Broman or Brown
11-13 East 49th Street, Manhattan

Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, reported that a member of the Health Squad investigated this complaint for several days, but no music was ever heard. The tenant assured the officer that music was only performed during "reasonable" hours of the day.

Radio Shop Loudspeaker
NE Corner of Broadway and 105th St., Manhattan

15 April 1930
complainant: C.H. Lavinder, On Behalf of An Anonymous Gentleman
Broadway at 105th Street, Manhattan

Lavinder, Chief Medical Officer of the U.S. Marine Hospital at Ellis Island, wrote to Commissioner Wynne on behalf of "a gentleman with whom I have had some pleasant business relationships, and who prefers, if possible, that his name not appear in the matter." Wynne instructed Assistant Sanitary Superintendent Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt to place the premises under observation, "and take whatever measures may be necessary to abate the nuisance."

Trucks; Barking Dog at 55 West 90th St.; Residential Radio at 49 West 90th St.; Radio Store at 14th St. bet. B'way and Third Ave; Davegas Radio Stores on 42nd St. and 86th at B'way; City Radio on 42nd Street, and 86th at B'way; Radio Store, NW Corner of 59th St. and Lexington; Radio Store, NW Corner of 52nd St. and B'way; Radio Store at 50th St. and Eighth Ave.; Two Radio Stores, South Side of 42nd St. West of 3rd Ave; Radio Store at 99th St. and Columbus Ave.; Loudspeakers at Hollywood Store, 48th St. and B'way; Shoe-Shine Store, 48th St. and B'way; Loudspeakers, Tango Dance Hall, 65th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Dance Hall, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Radio Store, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers Broadcasting From Planes and Cars
[Throughout Manhattan]

26 January 1932
complainant: Gertrude Heyman [?]
[No Return Address Provided]

Gertrude's signed last name is difficult to read, but a Gertrude Heyman had previously contacted the Health Department to complain about noise in 1930. That woman lived on West 85th Street, somewhat near many of the complaints listed here. Since this 1933 letter did not include a return address indicating where she lived, her complaint was not acknowledged by the Department of Health and it is not evident if any of these many complaints were investigated.

"Noise from Establishments Where Radios Are Sold"
[Near 225 Broadway, Manhattan]

14 June 1928
complainant: C.A. Swope
225 Broadway, Manhattan

Swope's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention. Swope wrote from his work address, at the Louisville and Nashville Railroad Company on Broadway, not far from "Radio Row" (Cortlandt Street), where numerous radio shops broadcast music out into the street.

Radio Shop Loud Speakers
[Near 213 West 35th St., Manhattan]

30 November 1928
complainant: Morris Schwartz
213 West 35th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Schwartz's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Loud Speaker, Abelowitz Phonograph Co.
1353 St. Nicholas Ave., Manhattan

13 March 1929
complainant: E. J. Sherwood
599 West 178th Street, Manhattan

Sherwood's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter had been referred to the Sanitary Superintendent, "for investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Shop
Neighborhood of 157 East 86th St., Manhattan

6 May 1929
complainant: Lewis J. Kapper
157 East 86th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Kapper's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Kerrigan, Assistant to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Kerrigan that the matter would receive attention.

Radio Nuisance
Cortlandt and Greenwich Sts., Manhattan

18 October 1929
complainant: "The Committee"
[Near Cortlandt and Greenwich Streets, Manhattan]

This complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention. Cortlandt Street was known as "Radio Row" and was well-known for the cacaphony of radio shop loudspeakers broadcasting out into the street.

Radio Shop Loudspeaker "Making Noise All Day and Night"
Flatbush Ave. and Hawthorne St., Brooklyn

11 November 1929
complainant: Mrs. F. C. Jarvis
15 Hawthorne Street, Brooklyn

Mrs. Jarvis's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Radio Loud Speakers
[Near 2 Lafayette St., Manhattan]

12 November 1929
complainant: Robert Ferrari
2 Lafayette Street, Manhattan

Mr. Ferrari's complaint, which included suggestions for the abatement of radio loud speaker noise, was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. The original letter is no longer extant, thus the content of his suggestions is unknown.

Outdoor Loudspeaker At the Century Talking Machine Company
1648 Second Avenue, Manhattan

12 May 1930
complainant: Edward Neylan
West side of Second Avenue, near 1648, Manhattan

Edward Neylan, resident of a building on the West side of Second Ave., complained numerous times about the use of a loudspeaker at the Century Talking Machine Co., a phonograph shop at 1648 Second Ave., owned by Joseph Krauss. Neyland had brought suit against Krauss under the Public Nuisance Act, but the case was dismissed. According to Krauss's lawyer, Howard Gill, Krauss was unfairly targeted by Health Inspector Robert Mansfield, who ignored the deployment of loudspeakers in other radio/phonograph shops near his own. Gill wrote to Commissioner Wynne to complain about this "oppression." Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, responded that Mansfield only responded to specific complaints, and that he had not served summonses to other shop owners because no complaints had been made against them. A few weeks later, Krauss would be taken to court as the first official offender of the new amendment to the Sanitary Code of the city which now forbade such use of outdoor loudspeakers. According to the Times, Krauss's loudspeaker was mounted over the transom of his shop door, and blasted music continually from 4 PM to 10 PM every day except Sundays. Neighbors testified that the noise "was greater than that of passing trolley cars and elevated trains combined." Krauss was found guilty and ordered to discontinue the nuisance immediately by Justice Caldwell. His sentencing, scheduled for 13 June 1930, would depend upon his compliance with this order.

Storefronts along "Radio Row" loudly broadcast their wares out into the street. (01:19; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

A storefront along "Radio Row" broadcasts music to a large crowd gathered outside on the sidewalk. (00:53; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

Storefronts broadcast a variety of music out onto the noisy street known as "Radio Row." (02:56; Cortlandt St., New York City, 1929)

"Noise committed by the ice-cream man"
Courtyard of 2410 Davidson Avenue, Bronx

9 July 1930
complainant: Mrs. Louise Helfcent
2410 Davidson Avenue, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Children enjoy a ride on a miniature merry-go-round accompanied by music from a player piano. (01:02; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

A street vendor serenades the crowd with a kazoo-like instrument. (00:25; Fifth Ave. at 73rd St., New York City, 9 April 1928)

A peddler seeking to purchase old clothes negotiates with a customer somewhere on the Lower East Side. (01:07; unspecified location in New York City, 10 October 1929)

The neighborhood noise of street vendors and sidewalk shoppers on the Lower East Side. (00:31; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Street cleaners on the Lower East Side are interrupted by a barking dog. (00:23; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

A crowd of noisy children race down Henry Street on the Lower East Side as part of a civic campaign to clean up the neighborhood. (01:09; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Manchester Garage
West 108th Street, Manhattan

14 May 1930
complainant: Mr. James Moore
247 West 107th Street, Manhattan

Moore's original complaint, no longer extant, was submitted in mid-April 1930, concerning noise emitted from broken and/or open windows in the Manchester Garage. The Dept. of Health sent inspectors on three occasions who observed no noise and reported that the windows had been repaired and closed. Moore apparently subsequently took the garage owner to court and lost the suit, as he wrote angrily to Wynne in July that the Commissioner "had his inspector testify that there was not any noise." Moore insinuated undue influence resulting from his belief that Wynne was connected with the management of the garage, since the Commissioner kept his (city-owned) car there. Wynne wrote back defending himself, even though he felt the "gross discourtesy" of Moore's letter deserved no response.

Buses Entering and Leaving a Garage Late at Night
Near Prince and Washington Streets, Queens

30 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Charles Williams, Queens Committee of 500 on Sanitation and Beautification, On Behalf of Neighbors
Neighborhood of Prince and Washington Streets, Queens

Commissioner Wynne replied that, while this nuisance was within the jurisdiction of the Police Dept. under Section 1530 of the Penal Law, he would have the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, send a Sanitary Inspector to the site. The Inspector was unable to verify the complaint but he spoke with the garage manager about the problem, and this manager apparently responded in a way that reduced the noise, as Mrs. Williams apparently wrote back later in July 1930 to commend the garage manager as well as the Health Inspector who handled the complaint. The location of Washington Street in Queens circa 1930 is unclear; the complaint has thus been placed along Prince Street.

"A Bunch of Tough's and Cab Drivers Who Honk Their Horns and Shriek Their Brakes"
Columbus Ave. and 83rd St., Manhattan

15 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. L. Siebert
474 Columbus Avenue, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne responded to Mrs. Siebert that Edward P. Mulrooney, Commissioner of the Police Department, had complete jurisdiction over the condition of which she complained.

Garage Doors
Rear of 726 Manida Street, Bronx

12 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. S. Greenwald
728 Manida Street, Bronx

Commissioner Wynne responded that Mrs. Greenwald's complaint has been forwarded to Dr. Arthur J. O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, for investigation and appropriate action. Addressing Greenwald's apparent concern that her complaint remain anonymous, Wynne noted that it was a Department of Health rule that the name of a complainant was never revealed by an inspecting officer.

Black Beauty Cab Corp.
635 Gates Avenue, Brooklyn

6 June 1930
complainant: Mr. J. Horowitz and Petitioners
494A Quincy Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Horowitz sent a petition from multiple complainants to the Commissioner of Health via Registered Mail. The complaint would have been forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James F. Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Vanderbilt Garage
213 East 47th Street, Manhattan

12 May 1930
complainant: Mr. J.C. Wilson
212 East 48th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Wilson wrote again, at the end of May, reiterating his complaint against the Vanderbilt Garage.

Garage of the White Motor Company
1045 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn

15 May 1930
complainant: Mrs. James Geary
180 Lefferts Place, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Early Morning Noise From a Garage
East Side of East 19th St., Between Aves. W and X, Brooklyn

6 May 1930
complainant: Mr. Morris Greenberg
1901 Avenue X, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noisy Garage
South Side of 91st Avenue, Between 144th Place and 145th St., Jamaica, Queens

17 February 1930
complainant: Mr. Henry Anwarter
9045 144th Place, Queens

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Garage Elevator
112 East 75th Street, Manhattan

2 January 1930
complainant: Mr. Joseph J. Hertz
2598 Broadway, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Hertz apparently wrote from his work address, the Borchard Affiliation at 2598 Broadway. Perhaps he lived near the noise of which he complained.

Garage
Adjoining 815 Park Avenue, Manhattan

7 January 1930
complainant: Mr. Hugh E. Potts
815 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Black Beauty Taxi Cab Corp. Garage
Lott Ave., Osborn and Watkins Sts., Brooklyn

3 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. Frieda Derruge and Petitioners
560 Osborn Street, Brooklyn

Commissioner Wynne responded on 3 January 1930 to Mrs. Derruge about an earlier complaint submitted as a petition from Derruge and her neighbors. Wynne pointed out that, although the nuisance was legally the province of the Police Department (under Section 1530 of the Penal Law) and not the Health Department, he had instructed his Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn to investigate the problem. A Health Department Inspector met with the garage owners, and they agreed to revise their procedures to minimize noise at night. On 28 December 1929, the Inspector consulted several of the signers of the petition, who reported that the noise had been abated.

Automobile Elevator in Garage
112-118 East 75th St., Manhattan

23 December 1930
complainant: Mr. Joseph L. Morse
2598 Broadway, Manhattan

Morse wrote from 2598 Broadway (at 98th Street), possibly his office address. Perhaps he lived near the garage of which he complained. His complaint was forwarded to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent, who sent an Inspector to survey the premises. The Inspector concluded there was no unnecessary noise in the operation of this elevator and reported "no cause for action" back to Dr. Blauvelt, who informed Mr. Morse of this result on 8 January 1931. A "Joseph J. Hertz", also of 2598 Broadway, had written to complain of this same noisy garage in January of 1930. Perhaps Mr. Hertz is the same person as Mr. Morse, either writing under a different name, or with messy handwriting being mis-interpreted by the Health Department staff?

Parking Lot
Rear of 300-306 East 156th St., Bronx

24 October 1932
complainant: Mr. George F. Mand, President, Bronx Chamber of Commerce
332 East 149th Street, Bronx

Mr. Mand wrote from his office address. Perhaps he lived near the parking lot of which he complained. His complaint was referred to Dr. Arthur O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, who reported that, upon several inspections of the site, no cause for action concerning noise was found. Since the lot illegally held more than five cars in a Business Zone, however, it was in violation of the Zoning Law, and the Office of the Borough President was notified of this fact.

Garage of Rubel Coal Company
617-669 62nd St., Brooklyn

6 April 1931
complainant: Mr. Vincent DeSantis and Petitioners
660 61st Street, Brooklyn

Mr. DeSantis's original letter of complaint of 6 April is not preserved. It was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superindendent for Brooklyn, who reported that, while Health Department Inspectors did find noises from planing machines and trip hammers coming from the site which could be heard at the premises of several of the petitioners, the Rubel Coal Company was operating under a legal permit and the noises were necessarily incident to the work being performed on site, thus the Health Department was unable to take action against it. DeSantis would have to take the matter to court under the Public Nuisance Law, Section 1530 of the Penal Code, if he wished to pursue it further. Morrison noted that the Department of Health's records would be made available upon Subpoena, if the petitioners decided to go to court.

Cab Stand of Key City Cab Corp.
412 East 55th Street, Manhattan

24 November 1933
complainant: Mr. H.W. Robbins
465 East 57th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Robbins was informed that his complaint had been referred to the Sanitary Bureau of the Health Department for "immediate attention."

Garage
Vicinity of 37 Willow St., Brooklyn

30 August 1933
complainant: Miss Lydia Costillo
37 Willow Street, Brooklyn

Miss Costillo's complaint was referred to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, for investigation.

Noisy Garage
417-419-421 West 37th St., Manhattan

10 August 1933
complainant: Mr. Andrew Beer,
On Behalf of Tenants
411, 412, 413, 414, 415, 418 West 37th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Beer's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Park West Garage
30-36 West 100th St., Manhattan

8 August 1933
complainant: Mr. E. Roth
295 Madison Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Roth, who sent his letter by Registered Mail, wrote from a mid-town address. It is not clear if he lived or worked uptown, near the noise of which he complained. His complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Alarm Gong in Garage
Near 430 West 57th St., Manhattan

1 August 1933
complainant: Miss Mary E. Dunn
421 West 57th Street, Manhattan

Miss Dunn's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Wadsworth Garage
Wadsworth Ave. Near 176th St., Manhattan

7 June 1933
complainant: Mr. A. Smith and Petitioners
619 West 176th Street, Manhattan

The petitioners' complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Wadsworth Garage
Wadsworth Ave. Between 176th and 177th Sts., Manhattan

6 June 1933
complainant: Miriam Realty Co. Inc., On Behalf of Tenants
618 West 177th St. and 619 West 176th St.,
Manhattan

The complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Nightly Engine-Racing of a Car in a Garage
Near 73-53 71st Street, Queens

6 January 1933
complainant: Mrs. Gallagher
73-53 71st Street, Queens

Mrs. Gallagher visited the Health Department in person to register her complaint. It was referred to Dr. John Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Queens, for investigation and appropriate action. The Department of Health Memo lists the date as 6 January 1932, but it was filed with the 1933 complaints, and the memo may have been mistakenly dated with the previous year's date, as memos often were at the start of a new year. It is assumed here that the complaint is from 1933.

Night-Time Running of Engine at Graymoor Garage
Near 162 East 85th St., Manhattan

24 May 1929
complainant: James J. Flynn
162 East 85th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Flynn's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Miss Mary Brennan, Assistant Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to Brennan that the matter would receive attention.

Loud Talking and Telephone Bell Ringing All Night at a Taxi Stand
Opposite 912 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan

18 June 1930
complainant: J. M. Silverman, On Behalf of Phil Glemby and His Sick Wife
912 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Silverman initially complained by telephone to the Mayor's Secretary, Thomas McAndrews, and then followed up by letter a day later. This letter was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. The matter was assigned to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, to investigate. On June 26, Dr. Blauvelt reported that a Patrolman Goggins of the Health Squad was sent to the site. At the time of his visit there were no taxicabs present and he was told that Mrs. Glemby was on a visit to Europe, thus there was "no cause for action." This report was then forwarded to McAndrews.

Brooklyn Auto Emergency Co.
2344 61st Street, Brooklyn

28 August 1930
complainant: Mrs. Mary Lewis
2342 61st Street, Brooklyn

Mrs. Lewis's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive prompt attention.

At Coney Island, a carnival barker levitates his beautiful assistant with the power of Animal Magnetism. (01:02; Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City, 9 August 1928)

A barker entices the crowd to enjoy the pleasures of the Pig Slide. (00:44; Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City, 26 May 1929)

A crowd is amused by a clown feeding a squealing pig. (00:13; Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City, 26 May 1929)

Organ Played at Night
Adjacent to 101 Park Avenue, Manhattan

7 January 1930
complainant: Mr. John Laimbeer
101 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Strolling Musicians
In Front of 133 East 64th St., Manhattan

1 October 1930
complainant: Dr. James Alexander Miller
133 East 64th Street, Manhattan

Dr. Alexander wrote to Health Commissioner Wynne to complain of strolling musicians who performed outside his office. Wynne replied that, upon future annoyance, Alexander should call his local police precinct to report the nuisance, as even licensed bands were required to retreat 250 feet from any dwelling whose inhabitant complained of the noise. Wynne additionally informed Captain Joseph F.X. Day, of the 19th Precinct, of the situation and asked that he put the location under observation by his officers on patrol.

Band Playing in a Restaurant after 11:00 PM
[Near 802 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn]

19 August 1930
complainant: Mr. A.F. Graff
802 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn

Mr. Graff had previously complained on 28 July 1930. His complaint would have been forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Music Studio
14 East 50th Street, Manhattan

19 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Charles Broman or Brown
11-13 East 49th Street, Manhattan

Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, reported that a member of the Health Squad investigated this complaint for several days, but no music was ever heard. The tenant assured the officer that music was only performed during "reasonable" hours of the day.

Children enjoy a ride on a miniature merry-go-round accompanied by music from a player piano. (01:02; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

A street vendor serenades the crowd with a kazoo-like instrument. (00:25; Fifth Ave. at 73rd St., New York City, 9 April 1928)

At Coney Island, a carnival barker levitates his beautiful assistant with the power of Animal Magnetism. (01:02; Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City, 9 August 1928)

Chinese New Year is celebrated with a noisy parade in Chinatown. (02:29; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

A dragon celebrates Chinese New Year by dancing to the sounds of cymbals and drum as the crowd looks on. (02:42; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

Young boys demonstrate Kung Fu for the crowd as part of Chinatown's New Year celebration. (00:32; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

A Coney Island troubadour entertains the crowd on a hot summer day. (00:42; Coney Island, New York City, 15 June 1930)

A Salvation Army preacher inspires the crowd. (00:59; Sheridan Square, New York City, 23 February 1928)

Steamship Whistles
Upper Bay of New York Harbor

6 May 1930
complainant: Mr. S. Hirshfield
144 Senator Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Unnecessary Whistling of East River Boats Near Doctors' Hospital
87th St. and East End Ave., Manhattan

11 April 1930
complainant: Clarence W. Lieb, M.D.
87th Street and East End Avenue, Manhattan

Dr. Lieb, and also Dr. Foster Kennedy (a member of the Noise Abatement Commission) expressed concern about East River boat whistles. Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent, spoke with numerous officials attempting to discover who had jurisdiction over this location. While Federal Laws regulating boat whistles were on the books, it was not clear who could enforce these laws. In August of 1930, Commissioner Wynne corresponded with Albert Goldman, Commissioner of the Department of Plant and Structures, which operated the specific boats at issue. Goldman informed Wynne that it was necessary for safety reasons for the boats to "blow-off" excess steam from their boilers, but that he would instruct his crew to do this only during daytime hours.

Boat Whistles and Sirens
East River, Near East-Side Hospitals, Manhattan

20 July 1931
complainant: Dr. C. Burns Craig
700 West 168th Street, Manhattan

Dr. Craig had written to Commissioner Wynne about this same problem earlier, in April of 1931. Craig wrote from his office at the Neurological Institute on West 168th Street, Manhattan, but his letter referred to the numerous hospitals located directly along the East River, whose patients clearly suffered from the river traffic noise. He listed six: Bellevue, City, Metropolitan, Rockefeller, New York, and Doctor's. Wynne replied on 27 July that the Department was actively working on abating this noise.

Boat Whistles on the East River
Near East Side Hospitals, Manhattan

13 April 1931
complainant: Dr. C. Burns Craig
700 West 168th Street, Manhattan

Dr. Burns wrote from his own office at the Neurological Institute on West 168th Street, but he highlighted the number of hospitals located directly along the East River, whose patients suffered from this constant noise. He wrote again in July of 1931 to reiterate this complaint.

Ferry Boat Whistles
[Near 140 Cedar Street, Manhattan]

20 January 1930
complainant: Arthur R. Rule, President, Federated Growers Credit Corporation
140 Cedar Street, Manhattan

Mr. Rule wrote to Health Commissioner Wynne with suggestions for minimizing the land-side noise nuisance of ferry boat whistles. Wynne replied, thanking Rule for his suggestion and indicating that he had appointed a committee "to consider this whole matter."

The somber tolling of a warning bell penetrates the harbor fog as tugboats are heard nearby. (00:16; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

Fog Warning Siren
Immigration [Ellis Island] Ferry Boat Dock, Battery, Manhattan

20 September 1930
complainant: Area Residents
Vicinity of Immigration Ferry Dock
Battery, Manhattan

Acting on behalf of unspecified residents of this area, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, inspected this complaint personally. He visited the docks and inquired at several offices before finding the official in charge, Mr. McCullough, Supervising Engineer for the Collector of the Port. McCullough informed Blauvelt that the siren had just been installed yesterday (19 September 1930) and was tested extensively at that time. Under normal circumstances, the siren would sound approximately 15 minutes every hour on foggy days, to warn the hourly Ellis Island Ferry of its approach to the pier. His superiors had specified a siren, to distinguish it from the numerous warning bells and whistles already in service at the Battery. Dr. Blauvelt suggested that a directional horn be installed, to minimize the noise directed toward the land-side, and McCullough agreed to have such an apparatus installed.

Boat Whistles and Sirens
East River, Near East-Side Hospitals, Manhattan

20 July 1931
complainant: Dr. C. Burns Craig
700 West 168th Street, Manhattan

Dr. Craig had written to Commissioner Wynne about this same problem earlier, in April of 1931. Craig wrote from his office at the Neurological Institute on West 168th Street, Manhattan, but his letter referred to the numerous hospitals located directly along the East River, whose patients clearly suffered from the river traffic noise. He listed six: Bellevue, City, Metropolitan, Rockefeller, New York, and Doctor's. Wynne replied on 27 July that the Department was actively working on abating this noise.

The somber tolling of a warning bell penetrates the harbor fog as tugboats are heard nearby. (00:16; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

A McAllister tugboat heads noisily out into the fog of New York's harbor where it joins other vessels floating in the mist. (02:15; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

At Coney Island, a carnival barker levitates his beautiful assistant with the power of Animal Magnetism. (01:02; Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City, 9 August 1928)

Ferry boat horns in the fog. (00:11; Lower Hudson River, New York City, 24 January 1929)

Construction workers on the Chrysler Building describe their work far above the sounds of the city below them. (00:34; 405 Lexington Ave., New York City, 20 November 1929)

The somber tolling of a warning bell penetrates the harbor fog as tugboats are heard nearby. (00:16; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

A McAllister tugboat heads noisily out into the fog of New York's harbor where it joins other vessels floating in the mist. (02:15; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

Ash Cart Men
[Near 1947 Broadway, Manhattan]

12 May 1930
complainant: Mr. John O'Neill
1947 Broadway, Manhattan

Complaints about municipal sanitation workers, or workers for private companies who provided municipal sanitation services, were typically forwarded to the Department of Sanitation.

Night-time Ash Removal
[Location Unknown]

26 March 1930
complainant: Mr. George L. Quinn
[1701 Avenue M, Brooklyn]

Mr. Quinn wrote from his business address, the Midwood Board of Trade, 1701 Avenue M, Brooklyn. It is not evident where he resided, which is presumably the area to which his complaint referred. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Night-Time Ash Collection
Near 465 80th Street, Brooklyn

24 March 1930
complainant: Mr. M. Fuller
465 80th Street, Brooklyn

Complaints of the noise of ash-collection were typically forwarded to the Department of Sanitation.

Early Morning Ash Removal and Ice Delivery
270-280 Park Avenue, Manhattan

5 March 1930
complainant: Harry M. Newington
280 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Newington wrote to Commissioner Wynne on 5 March 1930 to complain of the noise, and he wrote back on 13 March to thank Wynne for his Department's prompt work to alleviate the problem. An "efficient officer" had come to see him, Newington reported, and he noted that since that visit, the noise was no longer a problem.

Ash Collection at Ivy Court
Fillmore [35th] Ave. and 84th St., Jackson Heights, Queens

12 December 1930
complainant: Mrs. Ella D. Schmitt
3441 84th Street, Queens

Complaints about ash collection were typically forwarded to the Department of Sanitation. Fillmore Avenue is now known as 35th Avenue.

Ash and Garbage Removal
925 Park Ave. and 111 East 80th St., Manhattan

13 June 1931
complainant: Mr. G. LeBoutillier
911 Park Avenue, 11th floor

Mr. LeBoutillier was Vice President of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Commissioner Wynne forwarded his complaint to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan. Blauvelt wrote to LeBoutillier on 17 June, informing him that since the working day legally begins at 6 AM, there is no legal recourse against this necessary noise. He also indicated, however, that a Health Squad patrolman would speak to the parties involved and ask them to be as quiet as possible while doing their work. LeBoutillier wrote back to Wynne on 18 June, noting that all was quiet that morning and thanking him for his efforts to abate the noise.

Ash Collection
Vicinity of 73 West 105th St., Manhattan

7 January 1931
complainant: Mr. Harry H. Cohn
73 West 105th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Ash Removal
Vicinity of 315 West 86th St., Manhattan

5 January 1931
complainant: Mr. J.H. Griffith
315 West 86th Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne's acknowledgement of Griffith's complaint (which was written to Mayor Walker and forwarded to the Department of Health) was "Returned to Sender," so the address Griffith provided may have been incorrect.

Early-Morning Ash Removal, Rear Courts of Apartment Houses
545 West End Ave.; 302 West 87th St.; and 313 West 86th St., Manhattan

24 April 1930
complainant: Mrs. Jane Griffith
302 West 87th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Griffith's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Garbage Collection, Meyer and Peter Meat Market
Opposite 229 West 78th St., Manhattan

4 December 1930
complainant: Samuel S. Beck, DDS
229 West 78th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about garbage collection were typically forwarded to the Department of Sanitation.

Early Morning Garbage Pickup, Henry's Restaurant
42 West 46th Street, Manhattan

17 November 1930
complainant: Dr. John Cutter, On Behalf of a Patient Who Lives
Near 42 West 46th Street, Manhattan

A Health Department internal memo from the Chief of the Division of General Food Inspection to Commissioner Wynne, dated 17 November 1930, indicated that no noise problem was found at this location.

Garbage Removal from Hotel Winthrop
47th St. and Lexington Ave., Manhattan

3 November 1930
complainant: Mr. Melville E. Regensburg
125 East 47th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises involving garbage disposal were typically forwarded to the Department of Sanitation.

Garbage Removal from Cameo Tea Room
Near 36 Central Park South, Manhattan

16 October 1930
complainant: Mrs. Maude A. Sutton
36 Central Park South, Manhattan

Complaints about garbage removal were typically forwarded to the Department of Sanitation.

Garbage Collection and Shrieking Fire Engines
West 56th St., between Sixth and Seventh Aves., Manhattan

20 August 1930
complainant: Miss Caroline Dexter
468 Fourth [Park] Avenue, Manhattan

Miss Dexter wrote from her work address at The Trained Nurse and Hospital Review.

Ash and Garbage Removal
925 Park Ave. and 111 East 80th St., Manhattan

13 June 1931
complainant: Mr. G. LeBoutillier
911 Park Avenue, 11th floor

Mr. LeBoutillier was Vice President of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Commissioner Wynne forwarded his complaint to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan. Blauvelt wrote to LeBoutillier on 17 June, informing him that since the working day legally begins at 6 AM, there is no legal recourse against this necessary noise. He also indicated, however, that a Health Squad patrolman would speak to the parties involved and ask them to be as quiet as possible while doing their work. LeBoutillier wrote back to Wynne on 18 June, noting that all was quiet that morning and thanking him for his efforts to abate the noise.

Street cleaners on the Lower East Side are interrupted by a barking dog. (00:23; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Two boys enact a street-cleaning scenario as part of a campaign to clean up the Lower East Side. (02:10; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

A crowd of noisy children race down Henry Street on the Lower East Side as part of a civic campaign to clean up the neighborhood. (01:09; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Sheffield Farms Milk Delivery
Near 604 West 178th Street, Manhattan

30 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Brown
604 West 178th Street, Manhattan

Sheffield Farms milk deliveries were the subject of numerous complaints across the city from 1926 through 1931. Their large bottling plant at 632 West 125th Street in Manhattan was also cause for complaint in that neighborhood. Mrs. Brown's complaint would have been assigned to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Driver for Sheffield Farms Dairy Who Noisily Sorts and Stacks Metal Cans
Vicinity of 2257 Haviland Ave., Bronx

14 September 1931
complainant: Mrs. S.M. Costigan
2257 Haviland Avenue, Bronx

Mrs. Costigan's complaint was referred to the Bureau of Food and Drugs "for investigation and appropriate action."

Cut-Out Muffler on Renken Dairy Truck
Near 2639 Mansfield Place, Brooklyn

15 August 1931
complainant: Mrs. W.E. Turner
2639 Mansfield Place, Brooklyn

The name of Mansfield Place in Brooklyn was changed to 24th Street right around the time that Mrs. Turner wrote her letter to Commissioner Wynne. Her complaint was referred to the Division of Milk and Milk Production Inspection of the Bureau of Food and Drugs, which sent an Inspector Zimmerman to investigate. Upon verifying the noise, Zimmerman spoke with Mr. M.H. Renken Jr. about the problem and was assured that the noise would be abated at once. Reinspection showed that this had been done, and Mrs. Turner was apparently satisfied enough to write a letter of commendation back to the Department.

Late-Night Noise of Trucks From the Borden Milk Company
Near 114 East 78th Street, Manhattan

12 July 1932
complainant: Marion Alexander Meding (Mrs. Charles B. Meding)
114 East 78th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Meding wrote on behalf of her husband, who was ill and whose sleep was disturbed by the noisy milk truck. A hand-written note on Mrs. Meding's letter of complaint indicates that WJM (William J. Mills, Assistant Secretary to the Commissioner of Health) spoke to someone at the Bordon Dairy, who indicated that the truck would be re-routed. Mrs. Meding was then phoned with this information.

Borden Company Deliveries
[Near 220 East 25th St., Manhattan]

6 July 1933
complainant: Mr. Harry Housepian
220 East 25th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Housepian's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation. Commissioner Wynne's acknowledgement of receipt of Housepian's letter, however, was "returned to sender" by the Post Office, so his address may not be correct. It is assumed he was complaining of the noise of delivery trucks in this neighborhood.

Noisy Employees of: Queens Dairy Farms; Liberty Bus Transportation Co.; Green Bus Co.; and Others
Vicinity of 103-44 98th St, Ozone Park, Queens

8 May 1933
complainant: Mr. Charles Goshkarian and Petitioners
103-44 98th Street, Queens

The petitioners' complaint was forwarded to James Bolan, Commissioner of Police, for investigation.

Sheffield Farms Dairy Wagons
Vicinity of 35 St. Nicholas Terrace, Manhattan

6 April 1926
complainant: Mr. J. J. Cohen
35 St. Nicholas Terrace, Manhattan

Mr. Cohen's complaint to Mayor Walker was forwarded to the Department of Health by E.L. Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor, for "such investigation as you deem proper or necessary." The Department replied to Secretary Stanton that this matter has been referred to the Sanitary Bureau, "for investigation and action."

Sheffield Farms Dairy Employees
[Near 1114 East 180th St., Bronx]

19 December 1927
complainant: Joseph Saitta
1114 East 180th Street, Bronx

Mr. Saitta wrote his complaint to Mayor Walker. His letter was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Louis Harris by the Secretary to the Mayor. Harris replied that the matter would receive attention.

Borden Milk Trucks Operating "All Hours of the Day and Night"
[Depot on 5th St. and Fourth Ave.], Brooklyn

12 July 1926
complainant: Edward J. Taubner and Petitioners
362 5th Street, Brooklyn

The petition from Mr. Taubner and his neighbors was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Louis Harris, "for such action as you deem proper" by Edward Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor.

Nightly Yelling of Newspaper Vendors
Avenue U Station of the Brighton Beach Line (at East 16th Street), Brooklyn

12 June 1930
complainant: Miss Rose Kosler
2102 East 15th Street, Brooklyn

Commissioner Wynne informed Miss Kosler that she must contact her local Police Precinct to address this problem, as it was not within the jurisdiction of the Department of Health.

Radios at 131 West 94th Street and 130 West 95th Street; Singer at 146 West 95th Street; Barking Dogs at 146 West 95th Street and 135 West 94th Street; Drinking Party at 135 West 94th Street; and Newsboys Crying Headlines
[Neighborhood of 130s West 95th St., Manhattan]

21 June 1932
complainant: [illegible]
[Neighborhood of 130s-140s West 94th Street?]

On 5 July 1932, the Dept. of Health tried to contact a man named Wilson regarding an illegibly-signed letter of complaint dated 21 June, but the Department's letter - sent to the Hotel Victoria, Seventh Avenue and 51st Street, Manhattan - was returned, indicating that no such guest was registered there. The same man, once again signing his name illegibly and this time giving no return address, wrote back on 22 July to reiterate his complaint.

Late-Night Newspaper Delivery Men and Trucks at The Mirror
[235 East 45th Street], Manhattan

22 May 1932
complainant: Mary Raymond
244 East 45th Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne's Secretary, William Mills, informed Mary Raymond that her complaint would receive attention. Wynne contacted A.J. Kobler, Editor of The Mirror, who passed the matter on to his Business Manager, J.F. Cullen, with instructions to relieve the condition of which Raymond complained.

Trucks; Barking Dog at 55 West 90th St.; Residential Radio at 49 West 90th St.; Radio Store at 14th St. bet. B'way and Third Ave; Davegas Radio Stores on 42nd St. and 86th at B'way; City Radio on 42nd Street, and 86th at B'way; Radio Store, NW Corner of 59th St. and Lexington; Radio Store, NW Corner of 52nd St. and B'way; Radio Store at 50th St. and Eighth Ave.; Two Radio Stores, South Side of 42nd St. West of 3rd Ave; Radio Store at 99th St. and Columbus Ave.; Loudspeakers at Hollywood Store, 48th St. and B'way; Shoe-Shine Store, 48th St. and B'way; Loudspeakers, Tango Dance Hall, 65th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Dance Hall, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Radio Store, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers Broadcasting From Planes and Cars
[Throughout Manhattan]

26 January 1932
complainant: Gertrude Heyman [?]
[No Return Address Provided]

Gertrude's signed last name is difficult to read, but a Gertrude Heyman had previously contacted the Health Department to complain about noise in 1930. That woman lived on West 85th Street, somewhat near many of the complaints listed here. Since this 1933 letter did not include a return address indicating where she lived, her complaint was not acknowledged by the Department of Health and it is not evident if any of these many complaints were investigated.

Factory and Workshop
Near 61 West 10th Street, Manhattan

30 July 1930
complainant: Miss Kay Phelps
61 West 10th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Electric Machines at B. Bloom Factory
192 Stanton Street, Manhattan

8 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Rubin Davidson
190 Stanton Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Machinery in a Small Factory
Over Apartment 2M, 1 Seaman Avenue, Manhattan

23 June 1930
complainant: Mr. Joseph Hertz
1 Seaman Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Hertz, having gotten no satisfaction from "the proper authorities," wrote to Mayor Walker with his complaint of noise from an illegal workshop operating in his apartment building. His complaint was forwarded to the Department of Health, and Commissioner Wynne then forwarded it to Hon. William F. Deegan, Commissioner of the Tenement House Department, as well as to the New York State Department of Labor. Esther Midler, Chief of the Division of Homework Inspection for the State agency later reported to Wynne that the facility (a custom corset-making concern), which was not licensed to manufacture in this building, was ordered to cease operation.

Noisy Factory Exhaust
Corona Avenue in Elmhurst, Queens

16 May 1930
complainant: Miss Marie L. Johnston
225[?] Forley Avenue [Street], Queens

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action." Miss Johnston's location is unclear. The Health Department's acknowledgment of her complaint listed her at 225 Forley Avenue, Elmhurst. But there is only a Forley Street, not Avenue, in Queens, and there is no number 225 on the 1933 map of Forley Street.

Kayser Glove and Underwear Factory
970 Kent Avenue, Brooklyn

9 May 1930
complainant: Mr. Umberto Forte
969 Kent Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Glidden and Co. Factory
Corona Ave. at 94th St., Elmhurst, Queens

4 March 1930
complainant: Mr. Patrick Golden
9310 43rd Avenue, Queens

The Glidden factory complained of by Mr. Golden was the long-standing former Durkee Factory, which had been purchased by Glidden in 1929. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Faultless Hat Co. Factory
263 Greene Street, Manhattan

6 December 1930
complainant: Mr. I. Kaplan
1 University Place, Manhattan

Mr. Kaplan wrote from his work address at the Barrett-Radom Company. His complaint was acknowledged by Health Commissioner Dr. Shirley Wynne, who informed him that it had been referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, "for investigation and appropriate action."

Mattress Factory of William Intner Coy
344 East 40th Street, Manhattan

9 October 1930
complainant: Miss Janet M. McKay
5 Prospect Place [now Tudor City Place], Manhattan

Miss McKay's complaints was forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Factory of Paul A. Rung
461 West 40th Street, Manhattan

23 September 1930
complainant: Mr. Joseph L. Mann
542 Tenth Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Ganga Jewelry Casting Corporation
44 West 17th Street, Manhattan

16 September 1930
complainant: Mr. R.D. Boswell
31 West 16th Street, Apt. 15, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Stone Yard Opposite P.S. 17
North 5th St. and Driggs Ave., Brooklyn

11 September 1930
complainant: Mr. Thomas P. Smith, Principal
Public School 17, Brooklyn
208 North 5th Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Boiler Factory "Misereau" [Mersereau] Ave., Mariners Harbor, Richmond [Staten Island]

20 August 1930
complainant: Mrs. C. Ferri
174 Grandview Avenue, Mariners Harbor
Richmond [Staten Island]

Mrs. Ferri wrote to Mayor Walker, asking if he could influence the operators of this boiler factory to build a "sound proof wall" to protect the community from its noise. Her complaint was forwarded to the Department of Health, and on 3 September 1930, Dr. William Buntin, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Richmond (Staten Island), reported that, while two previous complaints had been received concerning this factory's noise, it operated in an unrestricted area and the Department of Health had no jurisdiction over it. Previous complaints had been referred to the local police.

Factory of Paul A. Rung Co.
North Side of West 40th St., near Tenth Ave., Manhattan

22 May 1931
complainant: Mr. Frank E. Lammers, On Behalf of Owners and Tenants
542 Tenth Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Lammers's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action.

Finko Dye Company
83-93 Scholes Street, Brooklyn

17 December 1930
complainant: Mr. Ruben M. Shemitz, On Behalf of Petitioners
near 83-93 Scholes Street, Brooklyn

The petitioners' complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, for investigation.

Colonial Pickle Works
Greenpoint Ave. [Near 137 Milton St.], Brooklyn

4 October 1932
complainant: Mr. N. Schmuck
137 Milton Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Schmuck's complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, for investigation and appropriate action.

Bottlers' Chocolate Supply Co. Soda Factory
222 Vernon Avenue, Brooklyn

6 May 1932
complainant: Peter Brandt, United Real Estate Owners Assn., On Behalf of Owner, Mr. Ginzberg
226A Vernon Avenue, Brooklyn

Because Mr. Brandt complained about soot and coal, as well as noise, coming from the plant, Commissioner Wynne forwarded his complaint to the Chief of the Smoke Abatement Division. Upon inspection, the site was determined not to present a nuisance in regard to smoke or noise. The original complainant, Mr. Ginsberg, was interviewed and found to be satisfied with conditions, and Mr. Brandt was informed of this on 25 May 1932.

Canada Dry and Seeley Bros. Bottling Plants
4225-4227 Bronx Blvd., Bronx

16 January 1932
complainant: Mr. William Stahl
4225 Carpenter Avenue, Bronx

Mr. Stahl's complaint was referred to Dr. Arthur O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, for investigation and appropriate action.

Factory Looms
180 New Jersey Avenue, #712, Brooklyn

26 June 1933
complainant: Mr. D. Friedman
2666 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn

Mr. Friedman's complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, for investigation and appropriate action. Mr. Friedman complained again of this noise a month later, and apparently he took the owner of the factory to court under the Nuisance Law. Unfortunately, neighbors who had - reluctantly - agreed to appear in court to verify the complaint failed to show, and the case was thus dismissed. Since then, however, a patrolman from the Health Squad reported to Commissioner Wynne that there were fewer looms in operation and that the windows were closed at night to contain the noise. On 5 September 1933, Mr. Friedman was interviewed and found to be satisfied with conditions.

Ever Ready Label Company
257 West 17th Street, Manhattan

29 August 1933
complainant: Mr. Adam Ciccarone, Owner, On Behalf of Tenants
253-259 West 16th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Ciccarone's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action. In October of 1931, a resident of 253 West 16th Street, Mary Bubser, had written directly to the Department of Health to complain of noise from this same location, which she identified as the "Steiner Building."

Steam Boilers at Liquid Carbonic Corp.
7th St. [47th Road] and West Ave. [5th St], Long Island City, Queens

13 August 1933
complainant: Mr. Arthur Crowley
4717 5th Street, Queens

Mr. Crowley had originally complained to Mayor Walker, and the Mayor's office forwarded his complaint to the Department of Health. His complaint was then referred to Dr. John Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Queens, for investigation. A hand-written note on a copy of Dr. Wynne's acknowledgement to the Mayor's office of receipt of Crowley's complaint notes the address of the factory.

Factory
441-447 Blake Avenue, Brooklyn

22 June 1933
complainant: Mr. Coleman Charney
66 Court Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Charney's complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Brooklyn, for investigation. Charney's return address is far from the noise complained of, but he previously complained of noise at this same location on behalf of tenants living in the area. That may also be the case this time.

Lalance and Grosjean Mfg. Co.
Atlantic Ave. and 92nd St., Woodhaven, Queens

15 June 1933
complainant: Mrs. William Grieger and Petitioners
9106 91st Street, Woodhaven, Queens

The petitioners' complaint was referred to Dr. John Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Queens, for investigation.

Kings Brewery
227-229 Pulaski St., Brooklyn

18 May 1933
complainant: Mr. Joseph Wiener
260 Hart Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Wiener's complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Brooklyn, for investigation.

Cutting, Grinding, and Polishing Noises From a Steel Factory
166 Lexington Avenue, Manhattan

27 February 1933
complainant: Mr. A.G. McKinnen
168 Lexington Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. McKinnen's complaint was referred to the Department of Health by William Schroeder, Chairman of the Sanitary Commission. It was then referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action.

Iron Factory Shutters Blowing Open During Storms
NW Corner of 28th St. and First Ave., Manhattan

1 February 1929
complainant: Albert F. Cogswell
[Near 28th Street and First Avenue, Manhattan]

Mr. Cogswell's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter had been referred to the Sanitary Superintendent, "for investigation and appropriate action."

Rubel Ice Company
Jamaica Ave. and 76th St., Woodhaven, Queens

18 July 1930
complainant: Claire L. Siegelack and Petitioners
8864 76th Street, Queens

Clair Siegelack et al.'s complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention.

Factory Noise
461-465 Madison Street, Brooklyn

24 June 1929
complainant: Mrs. Clotilda Meyer
466 Monroe Street, Brooklyn

Mrs. Meyer's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. She wrote again to complain of this factory around 10 July 1929.

Noisy Power House
Opposite 141 West 16th St., Manhattan

7 May 1930
complainant: Mr. A. Franklin
141 West 16th Street, Manhattan

Mr.Franklin's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Electric Machines in Factory Which Start at 5:30 A.M.
267 Evergreen Avenue, Brooklyn

22 July 1932
complainant: The Neighbors
Neighborhood of 267 Evergreen Avenue, Brooklyn

The Neighbors sent their complaint to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Foltis Fisher Restaurant
86th Street (near #129), Manhattan

29 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Francis G. Cinthank
129 East 85th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Restaurant Fan
Opposite 26 West 96th Street, Manhattan

26 July 1930
complainant: Dr. W.B. Hills
26 West 96th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

St. James Restaurant
618 West 181st Street, Manhattan

16 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Nathan Bregstone, ENBEC Holding Corp.
[145 Wadsworth Avenue, Manhattan]

In a previous letter of complaint about the St. James Restaurant (8 July 1930), Mr. Bregstone indicated that he wrote on behalf of the tenants of 145 Wadsworth Avenue. One of those tenants, John Higgins, also wrote directly to the Health Department in July 1930 to complain of the restaurant noise, and the Health Department inspected the restaurant numerous times following up on these complaints.

St. James Restaurant Exhaust Fan and Dishwasher
618 West 181st Street, Manhattan

11 July 1930
complainant: Mr. John W. Higgins
145 Wadsworth Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Higgins' complaint against the restaurant was joined at this time by that of Nathan Bregstone, who represented the owners and tenants of the building in which Higgins resided.

Restaurant, 438 68th Street and Radio Loudspeaker, North Side of 69th St., Brooklyn

24 June 1930
complainant: Mr. John S. Butler
[Near 438 68th Street, Brooklyn]

While the action taken in response to Mr. Butler's complaint is not recorded, on 10 July 1930, Wynne wrote to Butler noting that he was glad to hear that the problem was solved. Butler, a city engineer, wrote from his work address in the Municipal Building. He probably lived somewhere in Brooklyn near the noises of which he complained.

Dishwashing at the Hotel St. George
100 Henry Street, Brooklyn

16 May 1930
complainant: Mr. James A. Beattie
59 Pineapple Street, Brooklyn

The Hotel St. George was the largest hotel in New York City circa 1930, filling the block bounded by Henry, Clark, Pineapple, and Hicks Streets in Brooklyn Heights. Mr. Beattie's complaint was forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Coffee Pot Restaurant
561 West 147th Street, Manhattan

6 May 1930
complainant: Mr. Frank Hurst
561 West 147th Street, Manhattan

Complaints of noise from restaurants were typically forwarded to the Bureau of Food and Drugs.

Bickford's Restaurant
156 West 72nd Street, Manhattan

15 December 1930
complainant: Mrs. Margaret Miller Olinger
159 West 72nd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about restaurant noise were typically forwarded to the Bureau of Food and Drugs.

Restaurant
331 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn

20 October 1930
complainant: Mr. H.W. Mahan
628 Carlton Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about restaurant noise were typically forwarded to the Bureau of Food and Drugs. Mr. Mahan wrote again, in June 1931, to complain of this same noise.

Rattling Dishes at Coffee Shop
93rd St. and Lexington Ave., Manhattan

9 October 1930
complainant: Mr. Benjamin Jacobs
150 East 93rd Street, Manhattan

Complaints of restaurant noise were typically forwarded to the Bureau of Food and Drugs.

St. James Restaurant
618 West 181st Street, Manhattan

8 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Nathan Bregstone, Enbee Holding Corp., On Behalf of Tenants
145 Wadsworth Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Bregstone wrote to Health Commissioner Wynne, informing him that the noises of late-night dishwashing, food delivery, and loud employees had been bothering his tenants "for quite a time." Complaints to the police brought no improvement, and a recent summons to the Magistrates Court was "dismissed without as much as a hearing." A previous letter to the Health Department brought no response, so he now petitioned directly to Dr. Wynne asking for help. The complaint (like all involving restaurants and food services) was fowarded to Mr. Bernard Geertsema, Acting Director of the Bureau of Food and Drugs, where the Division of General Food Inspection investigated. Geertsema reported on 8 August 1930 that, after five inspections, the restaurant had taken numerous measures to lessen its noise, and that there was no further cause for action. Wynne relayed the content of Geertsema's report to Nathan Bregstone a few weeks later.

Band Playing in a Restaurant after 11:00 PM
[Near 802 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn]

19 August 1930
complainant: Mr. A.F. Graff
802 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn

Mr. Graff had previously complained on 28 July 1930. His complaint would have been forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Ventilator Fan at Schrafft's Restaurant
Broadway between 107th and 108th Sts., Manhattan

13 August 1930
complainant: Miss Ruth Burchenal
65 East 56th Street, Manhattan

Miss Burchenal wrote from her work address at the American Folk Dance Society, 65 East 56th Street, Manhattan. Perhaps she lived near the restaurant of which she complained. Her complaint was forwarded to the Bureau of Food and Drugs for investigation.

All-Night Cafeteria Dishwasher
876 East Tremont Avenue, Bronx

5 November 1929
complainant: Otto Lackman, Lackman Real Estate, On Behalf of Tenants
1941 Southern Boulevard, Bronx

Mr. Lackman wrote again in July of 1930 to complain of this noise, noting that the Bronx division of the Department of Health had been unable to abate the noise since he had written his original complaint in November of 1929. On 5 August, Superviser Lichterman of the Bureau of Food and Drugs reported that, upon inspection, the restaurant appeared to be shut down, and this was verified by neighbors as well as a woman at the office of Mr. Lackman, thus there was no further cause for action.

Kitchen Reconstruction at the Steuben Restaurant
Broadway between 75th and 76th Sts., Manhattan

26 August 1931
complainant: Miss Marian Irving
215 West 75th Street, Apt. 5A, Manhattan

Miss Irving, "a working woman" who needed her sleep, sent her letter of complaint to Health Commissioner Wynne via Special Delivery, which cost a twelve-cent stamp in 1931. On 5 September 1931, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt reported to Wynne that a local patrolman from the Health Squad had investigated the complaint on 31 August at 10:00 AM and found no noise. The restaurant manager informed him at that time that the kitchen construction was complete, and the patrolman confirmed this on a second visit on 2 September. He additionally reported that the complainant was now satisfied and there was no further cause for action.

Noisy Speakeasy
266 Sherman Avenue, Manhattan

13 September 1931
complainant: Mrs. J.E. Evans
270 Sherman Avenue, Manhattan

Mrs. Evans's complaint was forwarded by Health Commissioner Dr. Shirley Wynne to Edward Mulrooney, Commissioner of Police, "for any action you may deem appropriate." Wynne's letter to Evans, informing her of this, however, was returned by the Post Office and marked "not found," so she may not have given her real name or address when she wrote her complaint.

Silver's Commissary
19th St. and Eighth Ave., Manhattan

14 July 1931
complainant: John F. Morgan, James Wells Sons Inc.
191 Ninth Avenue, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne informed Mr. Morgan that his complaint had been referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan.

Noisy Restaurant
331 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn

26 June 1931
complainant: Mr. H.W. Mahan
628 Carlton Avenue, Brooklyn

Commissioner Wynne informed Mr. Mahan that his complaint had been referred to the Bureau of Food and Drugs for investigation and appropriate action.

Hinze's Restaurant
1272 Amsterdam Ave., Manhattan

3 March 1931
complainant: Miss F. Claire Gallecnz
510 West 123rd Street, Apt. 24, Manhattan

Miss Gallecnz's complaint was referred to the Bureau of Food and Drugs for investigation.

Nero Cafeteria
Opposite 107 West 86th St., Manhattan

29 December 1932
complainant: Mr. R. Reichenberg
107 West 86th Street, Manhattan

Reichenberg had previously written to Mayor Walker, around 6 July 1932, to complain more generally about noise. This complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action.

Drake's Restaurant
119 West 42nd Street, Manhattan

7 June 1932
complainant: Mr. Peter F. McKenney, Chairman, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, New York Lodge No. 1
108-116 West 43rd Street, Manhattan

Mr. McKenney's complaint was referred to the Bureau of Food and Drugs for investigation.

Drake's Restaurant
119 West 42nd Street, Manhattan

2 June 1932
complainant: Mr. Phil M. Rose, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks
108 West 43rd Street, Manhattan

Mr. Rose's complaint was referred to the Bureau of Food and Drugs for investigation.

Restaurant Exhaust Fan
121 East 23rd Street, Manhattan

8 June 1933
complainant: Mr. Leonard Weill, Owner, On Behalf of Tenants
126-130 East 24th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Weill's complaint was referred to Mr. Thomas Everett of the Bureau of Food and Drugs.

Noisy Restaurant
Adjoining 102 West 54th St., Manhattan

19 May 1926
complainant: John J. Walsh
102 West 54th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Walsh's complaint to Mayor Walker was forwarded to the Department of Health by E.L. Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor, for "such investigation as you deem proper or necessary." I.J. Greenberg, Secretary to Health Commissioner Dr. Louis Harris, replied to Secretary Stanton that this matter would receive attention.

Clatter of Restaurant Dishwashing Day and Night
Rear of 5 Sylvan Place, Manhattan

8 August 1930
complainant: Miss Anna Gilmore
5 Sylvan Place, Apt. 6, Manhattan

Miss Gilmore's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention.

Constant Operation of Electric Fan, Ice and Dishwashing Motors at the Faculty Club [Columbia University Faculty House]
117th Street and Morningside Drive, Manhattan

7 August 1930
complainant: Mrs. L. M. Church
70 Morningside Drive, Manhattan

Mrs. Church's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention.

The women's cafeteria of the New York Life Insurance Company building is filled with the din of clattering dishes and secretaries on their lunch break. (01:19; 51 Madison Ave., New York City, January 1929)

The dish-washing room in the New York Life Insurance Company Building is filled with the din of clattering dishes as workers keep pace with the constantly-moving conveyors. (02:44; 51 Madison Ave., New York City, January 1929)

Loud Whistle at Starlight Amusement Park
East Tremont Ave. at West Farms Road, Bronx

12 May 1930
complainant: Mr. John F. Dooley
1821 West Farms Road, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Early-Morning Removal of Scenery and Equipment at the Bedford Theater
Bedford Avenue and Bergen Street, Brooklyn

14 February 1930
complainant: Miss Elizabeth C. Smith
1112 Dean Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Hale Bowling and Billiard Academy
3118 Fulton Street, Brooklyn

6 November 1930
complainant: Mr. George L. Snyder
165 Hale Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Snyder's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. A Sanitary Inspector was sent to Mr. Snyder's home, and, upon confirming the complaint, the matter was called to the attention of the Department of Licenses, which regulated the operation of bowling alleys in the city. Dr. Wynne offered considerable additional legal advice in his 29 November 1930 reply to Snyder.

Noise from "Miniature Coney Island"
Near 1274 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan

8 September 1932
complainant: Miss Babette Rothberg
1274 Fifth Avenue, Apt. 57, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Trucks; Barking Dog at 55 West 90th St.; Residential Radio at 49 West 90th St.; Radio Store at 14th St. bet. B'way and Third Ave; Davegas Radio Stores on 42nd St. and 86th at B'way; City Radio on 42nd Street, and 86th at B'way; Radio Store, NW Corner of 59th St. and Lexington; Radio Store, NW Corner of 52nd St. and B'way; Radio Store at 50th St. and Eighth Ave.; Two Radio Stores, South Side of 42nd St. West of 3rd Ave; Radio Store at 99th St. and Columbus Ave.; Loudspeakers at Hollywood Store, 48th St. and B'way; Shoe-Shine Store, 48th St. and B'way; Loudspeakers, Tango Dance Hall, 65th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Dance Hall, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Radio Store, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers Broadcasting From Planes and Cars
[Throughout Manhattan]

26 January 1932
complainant: Gertrude Heyman [?]
[No Return Address Provided]

Gertrude's signed last name is difficult to read, but a Gertrude Heyman had previously contacted the Health Department to complain about noise in 1930. That woman lived on West 85th Street, somewhat near many of the complaints listed here. Since this 1933 letter did not include a return address indicating where she lived, her complaint was not acknowledged by the Department of Health and it is not evident if any of these many complaints were investigated.

RKO [Fordham] Theatre Exhaust Fan
[215 East] Fordham Road, Bronx

9 June 1933
complainant: Mr. Raphael Pragn, Empire State Holding Co., On Behalf of Tenants
2520 Grand Concourse, Bronx

Mr. Pragn's complaint was referred to Dr. Arthur O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of the Bronx, for investigation.

Children enjoy a ride on a miniature merry-go-round accompanied by music from a player piano. (01:02; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

At Coney Island, a carnival barker levitates his beautiful assistant with the power of Animal Magnetism. (01:02; Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City, 9 August 1928)

A policeman's whistle penetrates the din of traffic as New Yorkers converge on Coney Island on a hot summer day. (00:52; Stillwell and Surf Aves., Coney Island, New York City, 15 June 1930)

New Yorkers escape the city's heat, but not its crowds, at Coney Island on a hot summer day. (00:54; Coney Island, New York City, 15 June 1930)

A barker entices the crowd to enjoy the pleasures of the Pig Slide. (00:44; Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City, 26 May 1929)

A crowd is amused by a clown feeding a squealing pig. (00:13; Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City, 26 May 1929)

A street vendor serenades the crowd with a kazoo-like instrument. (00:25; Fifth Ave. at 73rd St., New York City, 9 April 1928)

Noisy boys play marbles as a crowd observes. (02:34; Central Park, New York City, 8 May 1929)

Children compete to see who can hold their breath the longest in a pool at Central Park. (04:34; Central Park, New York City, 19 July 1930)

Horse-Shoeing Shop
Opposite 250 East 110th Street, Manhattan

3 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Anthony Scalero
250 East 110th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Roosters Crowing
Rear of 4217 Carpenter Avenue, Bronx

3 May 1930
complainant: Mr. F.C. Hall
Carpenter Avenue and 233rd Street, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Cats
107 West 82nd Street, Manhattan

17 February 1930
complainant: Dr. Simon Ulick
79 West 92nd Street, Manhattan

Dr. Ulick's complaint was forwarded to the Health Squad, "for investigation and appropriate action."

Early Morning Noise of Rooster and Dog
Neighborhood of 30 Seaman Ave., Manhattan

18 January 1930
complainant: Mr. E. Spilka
30 Seaman Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Spilka was informed that his complaint was referred to an Assistant Sanitary Superintendent, "for investigation and appropriate action."

Gant Family (Including Dog), Walking About in Apartment Above Complainant
1864 Seventh Avenue, Manhattan

26 November 1930
complainant: Miss Charlotte M. Jarvis
1864 Seventh Avenue, Apartment 33, Manhattan

Health Commissioner Wynne replied to Miss Jarvis, informing her that "the persons so discommoded must secure a summons from the Magistrates Court in the District in which they reside under Section 1530 of the Penal Code."

Crowing Roosters, also New York Central Railroad
Opposite 110 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

24 November 1930
complainant: Mr. E. Wilhelm
110 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Mr. Wilhelm's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, "for investigation and appropriate action."

Dog and Cat Hospital
4305 48th St., Long Island City, Queens

10 October 1930
complainant: C.V. McLaughlin
Sunnyside Gardens (43rd-52nd Streets,
Between 39th Ave and Skillman Ave), Queens

Health Commissioner Dr. Shirley Wynne responded on 10 October 1930 to McLaughlin's original complaint, indicating that, upon inspection by the Health Squad, no noise had been discovered at the location. McLaughlin wrote back thanking Commissioner Wynne and reporting that the situation was "greatly improved."

Noise of Livestock (Pigs, Cattle, Chickens) In Side-Tracked NY Central Railroad Cars
Riverside Drive, 79th to 86th Sts., Manhattan

2 October 1930
complainant: Residents of the Area
Riverside Drive, 79th to 86th Streets, Manhattan

The complaint, from residents of this area, is mentioned in a memo from Commissioner Wynne to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, asking Blauvelt to investigate. Blauvelt forwarded Wynne's directive to Mr. C.D. VanShaick of the New York Central Railroad, who passed it on to an assistant there. On 6 October 1930, NYCRR Superintendent M.E. Welch replied to Blauvelt, explaining the conditions that sometime necessitated the holding of livestock cars in this area. He assured Blauvelt the Railroad would make an extra effort to minimize this holding time and correct any irregularities.

Early Morning Noise of Poultry in NY Central Railroad Cars
Along 137 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

26 April 1930
complainant: George F. Kunz
137 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Dr. Kunz complained vaguely about "conditions" along Riverside Drive in a letter to Commissioner Wynne dated 26 April 1930. The Department telephoned Kunz for more details, and Wynne subsequently asked Dr. Blauvelt to investigate the situation and report back.

Horse Stable
Opposite 15-39 West 67th Street, Manhattan

25 September 1930
complainant: Mr. W.C. Mansfield, Vice-President, Albert B. Ashcroft Inc., On Behalf of Tenants
15-39 West 67th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noisy Cats
Vicinity of 15 Attorney St., Manhattan

27 February 1931
complainant: Miss S. Rubin
15 Attorney Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Barking Dogs Owned by Mr. Love
107 Post Ave., Apt 3D, Manhattan

17 October 1932
complainant: Mrs. Dolan
107 Post Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Three Barking Dogs
802 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn

27 July 1932
complainant: Mr. Thomas Holland
555 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn

Mr. Holland's original complaint pre-dated 27 July 1932, as on that date he wrote to complain about the lack of action against an earlier complaint about the barking dogs. He believed no action was taken because the dogs' owner was a Police Sergeant. On 10 August, Wynne wrote to inform Mr. Holland that the dogs had been removed from the premises, but one of the animals must have returned later, because Mr. Holland complained again in September 1932, and subsequent to further inspections, a dog was once again removed.

Chickens Owned by "Johnson"
2318 East 74th Street, Brooklyn

12 April 1932
complainant: Mr. Arthur Campe
2345 East 74th Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Campe's complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, for investigation and appropriate action.

Trucks; Barking Dog at 55 West 90th St.; Residential Radio at 49 West 90th St.; Radio Store at 14th St. bet. B'way and Third Ave; Davegas Radio Stores on 42nd St. and 86th at B'way; City Radio on 42nd Street, and 86th at B'way; Radio Store, NW Corner of 59th St. and Lexington; Radio Store, NW Corner of 52nd St. and B'way; Radio Store at 50th St. and Eighth Ave.; Two Radio Stores, South Side of 42nd St. West of 3rd Ave; Radio Store at 99th St. and Columbus Ave.; Loudspeakers at Hollywood Store, 48th St. and B'way; Shoe-Shine Store, 48th St. and B'way; Loudspeakers, Tango Dance Hall, 65th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Dance Hall, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers, Radio Store, 68th St. at Columbus; Loudspeakers Broadcasting From Planes and Cars
[Throughout Manhattan]

26 January 1932
complainant: Gertrude Heyman [?]
[No Return Address Provided]

Gertrude's signed last name is difficult to read, but a Gertrude Heyman had previously contacted the Health Department to complain about noise in 1930. That woman lived on West 85th Street, somewhat near many of the complaints listed here. Since this 1933 letter did not include a return address indicating where she lived, her complaint was not acknowledged by the Department of Health and it is not evident if any of these many complaints were investigated.

Dog and Cat Hospital
153 East 48th Street, Manhattan

21 December 1933
complainant: Dr. A. Richard Stern, On Behalf of Mrs. Charles Dickinson
150 East 49th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

[Newkirk] Riding Academy
Adjacent to 85 Parkville Ave., Brooklyn

20 July 1933
complainant: Mrs. S. Berger
85 Parkville Avenue, Brooklyn

Mrs. Berger's complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Brooklyn, for investigation. Her neighbor Mrs. Weinstein also complained of this noise at this time.

Newkirk Riding Academy
Lawrence Ave. at East 3rd St., Brooklyn

19 July 1933
complainant: Mrs. S. Weinstein
85 Parkville Avenue, Apt. 8A, Brooklyn

Mrs. Weinstein's complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Brooklyn, for investigation. Her neighbor Mrs. Berger also complained of this noise at this time.

Roosters Owned by People Named Schneider
118-32 201st St., St. Albans, Queens

11 July 1933
complainant: Mr. G.W. Cooley
118-31 200th Street, St. Albans, Queens

Mr. Cooley's complaint was referred to Dr. John Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Queens, for investigation. He may have given an incorrect return address, as the Department of Health's acknowledgement of his complaint was returned undelivered.

Dogs and Chickens
Near Kings County Hospital [451 Clarkson Avenue], Brooklyn

26 July 1927
complainant: Anonymous
[Near 451 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn]

This anonymous complaint to Mayor Walker was forwarded to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Heath, who acknowledged that the matter would receive attention.

Crowing Roosters
Near 647 West 239th St., Bronx

24 October 1927
complainant: Anna C. Hatton
647 West 239th Street, Bronx

Anna Hatton wrote her complaint to Mayor Walker. Her letter was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Louis Harris by the Secretary to the Mayor. Harris replied that the matter would receive attention.

Night-Time Barking of Three Dogs
479 Essex Street, Brooklyn

19 September 1928
complainant: Anonymous
[Near 479 Essex Street, Brooklyn]

This anonymous complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Barking Dog Owned by Mrs. Matney
338 West 46th Street, Manhattan

11 April 1929
complainant: Mrs. Van Ralte
325 West 45th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Van Ralte contacted the office of the Mayor in March of 1929, complaining of the Health Department's lack of action concerning a previous complaint she made in January 1929 about a barking dog owned by a neighbor, Mrs. Matney. Van Ralte asserted that Matney boasted that she had bribed the Health Inspector. The Mayor's office telephoned the Health Department to inquire about the complaint, and Commissioner Wynne wrote back on 11 April 1929, explaining that several inspections were made in response to Van Ralte's initial complaint. The Inspector reported that he found no cause for action when he made his inspections, but nonetheless warned Matney that she would be issued a summons if she permitted her dog to annoy people in the neighborhood. The Manager of the hotel in which Van Ralte resided had informed the Inspector at that time that "Mrs. Van Ralte was constantly complaining about everything," and indicated that there was no problem as far as he was concerned.

Dog, "Owned by One Fishoni," Who Barks Day and Night
102-37 Drive [102 37th Ave.], Corona, Queens

29 July 1927
complainant: Anonymous
[Near 102-37 Drive [102 37th Avenue], Queens]

This anonymous complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Health.

Barking Dog Owned by Janitress
510 West 162nd St., Manhattan

13 November 1930
complainant: Mr. T. M. Sullivan
510 West 162nd Street, Manhattan

Mr. Sullivan's complaint, which he apparently marked as "confidential," was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Incessant Night-Time Barking of Dog
[Near 945 41st Street, Brooklyn]

24 May 1932
complainant: Mr. Joseph Scovell
945 41st Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Scovel's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

A barker entices the crowd to enjoy the pleasures of the Pig Slide. (00:44; Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City, 26 May 1929)

A crowd is amused by a clown feeding a squealing pig. (00:13; Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City, 26 May 1929)

An elevated train noisily taking a sharp turn in the tracks adds to the din of street traffic and an unhappy dog. (00:31; unspecified location in New York City, 1929)

The neighborhood noise of street vendors and sidewalk shoppers on the Lower East Side. (00:31; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Street cleaners on the Lower East Side are interrupted by a barking dog. (00:23; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

A street vendor serenades the crowd with a kazoo-like instrument. (00:25; Fifth Ave. at 73rd St., New York City, 9 April 1928)

Chinese New Year is celebrated with a noisy parade in Chinatown. (02:29; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

A dragon celebrates Chinese New Year by dancing to the sounds of cymbals and drum as the crowd looks on. (02:42; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

Young boys demonstrate Kung Fu for the crowd as part of Chinatown's New Year celebration. (00:32; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

Noisy Schoolchildren on the Playground of the Richmond Hill High School Annex
114th Street and 86th Avenue, Richmond Hill, Queens

8 May 1930
complainant: Mr. and Mrs. Hagan
113-07 86th Avenue, Queens

While the original complaint is not extant, a Health Inspector's report from 8 May 1930 indicates that the Hagans complained about a noisy new game that children were playing at the Richmond Hill High School Annex playground all day long. The Sanitary Inspector, C.C. Sofliess, reported on 20 May 1930 that, after three separate visits to the site, he "never saw a school yard less noisy." The school children, however, indicated that children from a nearby parochial school often came and used this playground and that these kids were very noisy. Sofleiss spoke with Mrs. Hagan, who blamed the playground for her inability to sell her house. Sofleiss opined in his report that this was unfair, as there simply was no selling market at the time. Sofleiss was instructed to interview the Supervisor of the parochial school regarding the use of the playground, but there is no record beyond this point.

Noisy Boys
West 87th Street, Manhattan

3 April 1930
complainant: Dr. George F. Shrady
328 West 87th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Bugle and Drum Corp of the Hebrew Orphans Asylum
Amsterdam Ave. between 136th and 138th Sts., Manhattan

19 March 1930
complainant: Robert L. Winkley
610 West 139th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Winkley had written to complain of this noise in November of 1929, and he wrote back to the Commissioner of Health in March of 1930 to report that, after a cessation of the "damnable din," the noise of the drum and bugle corp of the Hebrew Orphan Asylum had returned, "shattering the peace and quiet of Sunday mornings with the blare of bugles, and the beating of drums, and the incessant marching around in military formation." Commissioner Wynne asked former Commissioner of Health Thomas Darlington to visit the Asylum and speak to its supervisor about the noise. The outcome is unrecorded.

Children Playing Tennis Near Holliswood Hospital
8737 188th St., Hollis, Queens

3 July 1931
complainant: Miss Catherine M. Rhinevault, Supervisor, Holliswood Hospital
8737 188th Street, Queens

Assistant Sanitary Superintendant for Queens, Dr. Barry, wrote to Rhinevault on 16 July 1931, indicating that he had sent Inspector Marie T. Norris to the site on two separate occasions, and that she observed no noise on either visit. There appears to have been an ongoing tension between the Hospital and the owner of the tennis court, Mrs. Webster Williams, as a note from Barry to Commissioner Wynne dated 17 July 1931 indicated that Mrs. Williams complained "constantly" about the Hospital.

Yelling Boys
Neighborhood of 775 Westminster Rd., Brooklyn

26 February 1932
complainant: Robert Grimshaw
775 Westminster Road, Brooklyn

Mr. Grimshaw wrote regularly to the Commissioner with his noise problems. In this case, he was informed that his complaint was not within the jurisdiction of the Department of Health, and that he should communicate with Police Commissioner Edward Mulrooney regarding the situation.

Maternity Department, Israel Zion Hospital
4802 Tenth Avenue, Brooklyn

19 December 1933
complainant: Miss Anna Nigro
1020 48th Street, Brooklyn

Miss Nigro's complaint was referred to Commissioner Wynne by John Prest of the New York State Department of Social Services. Wynne replied to Prest that the matter would be assigned to Sanitary Superintendent Dr. John Overwager for his "personal investigation."

Students of St. Regis High School
55 East 84th Street, Manhattan

13 March 1933
complainant: Mrs. Ernest H. Wands
1000 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Mrs. Wands's complaint was forwarded to Edward Mulrooney, Commissioner of Police, for investigation. When she was informed of this in a letter from Health Commissioner Wynne, Mrs. Wands wrote back expressing her concern that, because the children's noise-making took place in an interior school courtyard - not in the street - this might not be under the jurisdiction of the police.

Children play in a water fountain in front of a fire station as an elevated train rumbles by in the background. (01:01; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Passengers enter and exit an elevated train car under the supervision of a conductor. (01:55; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Children enjoy a ride on a miniature merry-go-round accompanied by music from a player piano. (01:02; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

A fire engine - with bell ringing and siren wailing - pulls out of the station and off to a fire. Afterwards, children resume playing in a water fountain in front of the station. (00:54; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Noisy boys play marbles as a crowd observes. (02:34; Central Park, New York City, 8 May 1929)

Boys riding home-made scooters race before a large crowd on the Lower East Side. (00:39; Hamilton Fish Park, New York City, 23 November 1929)

Children on roller skates, bicycles, and scooters race before an enthusiastic crowd on the Lower East Side. (00:40; Hamilton Fish Park, New York City, 23 November 1929)

A brother and sister congratulate each other upon winning the children's races on the Lower East Side . (00:53; Hamilton Fish Park, New York City, 23 November 1929)

Young boys demonstrate Kung Fu for the crowd as part of Chinatown's New Year celebration. (00:32; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

Two boys enact a street-cleaning scenario as part of a campaign to clean up the Lower East Side. (02:10; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

A crowd of noisy children race down Henry Street on the Lower East Side as part of a civic campaign to clean up the neighborhood. (01:09; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Children compete to see who can hold their breath the longest in a pool at Central Park. (04:34; Central Park, New York City, 19 July 1930)

Church Bells
Near 575 West End Avenue, Manhattan

27 May 1930
complainant: Walter I. Wolf
575 West End Avenue, Manhattan

Like all who wrote to complain about the noise of church bells, Mr. Wolf received a form letter indicating that, since the ringing of church bells was protected as a religious freedom under the Constitution of the United States, no action could be taken to alleviate this noise. He did not specify the location of the church whose bells disturbed him, but it was probably somewhere near his residence. St. Paul's Methodist Church (now The Church of St. Paul and St. Andrew) was just a block away, at 86th Street and West End Avenue.

Church Bells
[Near 184 Sullivan Street, Manhattan]

26 May 1930
complainant: Paul W. Kellogg
184 Sullivan Street, Manhattan

Like all who wrote to complain about church bells, Mr. Kellogg received a form letter indicating that, since the ringing of church bells was protected as a religious freedom under the Constitution of the United States, no action could be taken to alleviate this noise. Kellogg apparently did not specify the church whose bells disturbed him. The Judson Memorial Baptist Church at 55 Washington Square South was not far from his residence, however, and it may have been those bells that he heard.

Church Bells
Two Blocks from 132 Nassau Street, Manhattan

14 January 1930
complainant: Mr. C.H. Sandman
132 Nassau Street, Manhattan

Mr. Sandman apparently complained on 1 November 1929, and again on 6 January 1930, about Sunday morning church bells ringing in his neighborhood. Department Counsel James D. O'Sullivan replied on 14 January, pointing out that on November 10th a Health Department Inspector had visited the site and noted that the (unnamed) church had a set of musical chimes installed in its steeple which played hymns for about 22 minutes each Sunday morning. It then tolled bells for three minutes. Neither the bells nor the chimes were harsh in sound and, according to the Inspector, did not constitute a nuisance. Mr. Sandman, who lived two blocks from this church, was also visited at that time, and he indicated to the Inspector that he "did not wish to stir up any trouble." O'Sullivan further explained to Sandman that "it is not and never has been the policy of the Health Department to do anything that might be construed as interfering with ones [sic] religious liberties in the slightest degree." Sandman was advised that, if he wished to pursue the matter he could bring suit according to Sections 1530 and 1532 of the Penal Code, but there would be "no hope of success" in court. The copy of O'Sullivan's letter in the Municipal Archives has "First Dutch Reform Church" hand-written at the bottom of the typed letter, but it remains unclear which church was the source of Sandman's complaint. St. Paul's Chapel lies within two blocks of 132 Nassau Street, as does St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church. St. Paul's has a steeple, while St. Peter's does not.

Church bell serenade from the Park Avenue Baptist Church. (01:03; Park Ave. at 64th St., New York City, 25 March 1928)

A Salvation Army preacher inspires the crowd. (00:59; Sheridan Square, New York City, 23 February 1928)

Boys riding home-made scooters race before a large crowd on the Lower East Side. (00:39; Hamilton Fish Park, New York City, 23 November 1929)

Children on roller skates, bicycles, and scooters race before an enthusiastic crowd on the Lower East Side. (00:40; Hamilton Fish Park, New York City, 23 November 1929)

Chinese New Year is celebrated with a noisy parade in Chinatown. (02:29; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

A dragon celebrates Chinese New Year by dancing to the sounds of cymbals and drum as the crowd looks on. (02:42; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

Young boys demonstrate Kung Fu for the crowd as part of Chinatown's New Year celebration. (00:32; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

The neighborhood noise of street vendors and sidewalk shoppers on the Lower East Side. (00:31; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Street cleaners on the Lower East Side are interrupted by a barking dog. (00:23; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

A crowd of noisy children race down Henry Street on the Lower East Side as part of a civic campaign to clean up the neighborhood. (01:09; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

New Yorkers escape the city's heat, but not its crowds, at Coney Island on a hot summer day. (00:54; Coney Island, New York City, 15 June 1930)

A Coney Island troubadour entertains the crowd on a hot summer day. (00:42; Coney Island, New York City, 15 June 1930)

Brief sidewalk scene with honking car horn. (00:05; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Children play in a water fountain in front of a fire station as an elevated train rumbles by in the background. (01:01; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

Workers operate pneumatic jackhammers as they repair trolley tracks. (00:32; unspecified location in New York City, circa 1928-1930)

A street vendor serenades the crowd with a kazoo-like instrument. (00:25; Fifth Ave. at 73rd St., New York City, 9 April 1928)

The noisy construction of the Chrysler Building is observed from the top of the Chanin Building. (00:28; 112 East 42nd St., New York City, 5 August 1929)

Boys riding home-made scooters race before a large crowd on the Lower East Side. (00:39; Hamilton Fish Park, New York City, 23 November 1929)

Construction workers on the Chrysler Building describe their work far above the sounds of the city below them. (00:34; 405 Lexington Ave., New York City, 20 November 1929)

Two boys enact a street-cleaning scenario as part of a campaign to clean up the Lower East Side. (02:10; Henry St., New York City, 19 March 1930)

Members of the Noise Abatement Commission measure noise in Times Square as an interested crowd looks on. (03:25; Times Square, New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Times Square. (00:57; Broadway at 47th St., New York City, 1929)

Members of the Noise Abatement Commission measure noise in Times Square as an interested crowd looks on. (03:25; Times Square, New York City, 1929)

The sights and sounds of Times Square. (00:57; Broadway at 47th St., New York City, 1929)

Dr. E.E. Free demonstrates his noise-measuring apparatus (silent film). (00:40; unspecified location in New York City, January 1926)

Chinese New Year is celebrated with a noisy parade in Chinatown. (02:29; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

A dragon celebrates Chinese New Year by dancing to the sounds of cymbals and drum as the crowd looks on. (02:42; Mott St., New York City, circa 30 January 1930)

Traffic Noise
Lenox Road and Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn

5 June 1930
complainant: Marjorie Z. (Mrs. Reginald) Sigel
101 Lenox Road, Brooklyn

Commissioner Wynne replied that "noises naturally incident to commercial enterprises may not be prohibited." In response to Mrs. Sigel's query about breaking her lease so that she could move to a quieter location, Wynne advised her to consult a lawyer. Mrs. Sigel did apparently move later that summer or fall, for in November of 1930 she wrote from a different location just a block away at 95 Linden Boulevard. She may have escaped the noise of traffic at her new home, but she now encountered a noisy radio which also disturbed her peace.

Traffic Noise
[Near 597 Walton Avenue, Bronx]

27 February 1930
complainant: Mr. T.A. Crausway
597 Walton Avenue, Bronx

Complaints about traffic noises were typically referred to the Department of Police. While Mr. Crausway did not specify the location of the noise that bothered him, it was probably near his home.

Night Traffic; Early Morning Steam Shovel Operation; and Loose Planks in the Road
Neighborhood of Ft. Washington Ave, Between 178th and 179th Sts., Manhattan

17 December 1930
complainant: Hon. David C. Lewis
Municipal Court, 7th District
427 Fort Washington Avenue, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne responded personally to Judge Lewis's complaint, regretting that his Department was unable to take action about traffic noises as this was a matter for the Police to handle. He also indicated that, although contractors were allowed to begin work in the City at 6 AM, he would send a health inspector to investigate the situation and see if they could begin at a later hour. A follow-up letter to the Judge dated 30 December 1930 (which may not have been sent) indicated that a Health Squad Patrolman determined that the loose planking was now nailed down and that the steam shovel working in the area didn't begin operation until 7:00 A.M.

Traffic, Including Trolleys, Bells, Sirens, and Street Cleaning
Christopher St., between Waverly Place and Greenwich Ave., Manhattan

11 September 1930
complainant: Miss Susan McGowan
23 Christopher Street, Manhattan

Upon receipt of Miss McGowan's complaint, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt wrote back, acknowledging receipt and succinctly informing her that she should contact her local police station, as they had jurisdiction over the situation of which she complained. McGowan found Blauvelt's letter discourteous and wrote back to Commissioner Wynne to complain, and Wynne subsequently responded defending his employee, explaining that Blauvelt's letter was brief because he was so busy, and that it was indeed true that she needed to contact the police to pursue her complaint.

Demolition of the Century Theatre
62nd St. and Central Park West, Manhattan

12 December 1930
complainant: Mr. N.M. Ketcham
31 West 63rd Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne acknowledged receipt of Mr. Ketcham's Special Delivery letter of complaint, and indicated that the matter had been referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, for investigation. Since its construction in 1909, the Century Theatre (originally the New Theatre) had been infamous for its bad acoustics. Perhaps it was fitting that the noise of its demolition was also problematic. Wynne mistakenly located the theater at 63rd Street in his reply to Ketcham's letter.

Building Demolition
NE corner of Madison Ave. and 53rd St., Manhattan

9 October 1930
complainant: Mr. Max Haering, Manager
On Behalf of Tenants and Guests of Hotel Elysee
60 East 54th Street, Manhattan

Haering had complained, back in February 1930, of the noise of trucks disturbing guests at his hotel. This time his complaint was followed by one from the Hotel's owner, Mr. H.M. Marks.

Wrecking of Buildings
West End Avenue and 79th Street, Manhattan

9 October 1930
complainant: Miss Miriam Finestine
412 West End Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Building Demolition
NE Corner of Madison Ave. and 53rd St., Manhattan

8 October 1930
complainant: Mr. H.M. Marks, Ellda Corp.
Owner of Hotel Elysee, On Behalf of Tenants and Guests
Hotel Elysee, 56-60 East 54th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Marks was echoing the complaint of Max Haering, Manager of the Hotel Elysee. Health Commissioner Wynne responded that the legal hours of rest in the City were from 11 PM to 6 AM, thus contractors were allowed to begin work as early as 6 AM. He nonetheless indicated that he would ask Assistant Sanitary Superintendent Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt to instruct the contractors that "the building demolishing noise be reduced to the minimum."

Building Demolition
NW Corner of 42nd St. and Fifth Ave., Manhattan

10 January 1930
complainant: Mr. C. Maurice, Manager
Columbia University Club
4 West 43rd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Trucks Moving Earth from Fulton Street Subway Construction
Through Canarsie, Brooklyn

17 September 1930
complainant: Mr. Nat J. Klauber
889 East 94th Street, Canarsie, Brooklyn

Mr. Klauber wrote from his office at the General Insurance Co., 889 East 94th Street, in Canarsie, Brooklyn. The Fulton Street Subway line is a good deal north of here, but it is possible the trucks that he complained of moved south from Fulton Street through Canarsie to dump their loads of earth and rubble into the bay. Klauber had previously complained about this same noise on 29 August 1930. In his letter of 17 September, he noted that, while the papers reported on the Aldermen's consideration of legislation to silence the late-night operation of miniature golf courses, he felt the noise of late-night trucking was a far greater threat to peoples' health.

All-Night Pumping at Construction Site
SW Corner of West 63rd St. and Central Park West, Manhattan

18 March 1931
complainant: Manager, Mayflower Hotel
SW Corner of West 62nd Street and Central Park West, Manhattan

Dr. Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, reported that he interviewed the contractor at this location, "Marcus," who explained that they were sinking a shaft down to bedrock to support a 30-story apartment house to be built at the site. The pumps had to run continuously to remove sand from the shaft until they hit rock. His union men worked through the night with permission from the Superintendent of Buildings, and the work ceased on Sundays only because these men were unwilling to work - even "at advanced rates" - on that day. The pumps had to keep operating, however, even when digging was not being done.

Boring Machine of Crimmins Operation Co.
East 34th St. and Park Ave., Manhattan

11 March 1931
complainant: Miss Marion Saunders
32 East 35th Street, Manhattan

The boring machine was at work on the foundation of the former Community Church. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Excavation Work
62nd St. and Central Park West, Manhattan

16 February 1931
complainant: Arthur J. Herzig, M.D.
133 West 72nd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Digging and Blasting
58th St., Between Sixth and Seventh Aves., Manhattan

2 November 1932
complainant: Mr. Pierre V. Key
119 West 57th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Key wrote from his office at Musical Publications Inc., which was near the reported noise. His complaint would have been forwarded to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Excavation Engine
East 106th St., between Park and Lexington Aves., Manhattan

20 June 1928
complainant: M.M. Ward
[Near East 106th Street, Park and Lexington Avenues]

Ward's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged receipt of the letter to Hand. No return address for Ward was indicated, so it is assumed he wrote from somewhere near the noise of which he complained.

Excavation Work
51st St. Near Sixth Ave., Manhattan

29 October 1929
complainant: Mr. J. C. Lindberg, President, American Spectacle Co. Inc.
136 West 52nd Street, Manhattan

Mr. Lindberg's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

James Murray, Blasting Foreman, compares the city's subway extension project to the digging of the Panama Canal. (00:40; Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Excavation via dynamite for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Excavation via steam shovel for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Subway Construction
Near Lafayette Avenue and Ashland Place, Brooklyn

24 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Morris H. Adler
Hotel Grenada, Lafayette Avenue and Ashland Place, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Subway Construction
[Near 8024 Broadway, Elmhurst, Queens]

24 February 1930
complainant: Mrs. Paul Fredericksen
8024 Broadway, Queens

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Around-the-Clock Subway Construction Drilling Under Houses
546 16th Street, and Prospect Park South Near 11th Ave., Brooklyn

9 January 1930
complainant: Judge Tally
[Near 546 16th Street, Brooklyn]

A Health Department report dated 9 January 1930 refers to this complaint by "Judge Tally," which was referred to the Board of Transportation. Alfred J. Talley was a former Judge of the Court of General Sessions of the State of New York.

Underground Construction
East of Nassau St. from Fulton to Franklin Sts., Manhattan

7 November 1930
complainant: Anonymous
[City Hall Annex Post Office]

The date is taken from the postmark on the anonymously-sent postcard, which was processed by the City Hall Annex Post Office.

All-Night Subway Construction
Grand Concourse, Bronx

26 September 1929
complainant: Mr. J. Quinn
2535 Grand Concourse, Bronx

Mr. Quinn's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Night-Time Subway Construction
Grand Concourse, Bronx

17 October 1929
complainant: Anonymous
[Near Grand Concourse, Bronx]

This anonymous complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Late-Night Subway Construction
[Near 2545 Grand Concourse, Bronx]

5 December 1929
complainant: J. Halloran
2545 Grand Concourse, Bronx

Halloran's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

James Murray, Blasting Foreman, compares the city's subway extension project to the digging of the Panama Canal. (00:40; Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Excavation via dynamite for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Excavation via steam shovel for the uptown extension of the city's subway system. (00:41, Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York City, 8 March 1929)

Sewer Construction
East 85th Street between Park and Madison Avenues, Manhattan

22 July 1930
complainant: Mr. J. Charles Weschler
45 East 85th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

"Intolerable night noises" at a Water Shaft
South Fifth and Keap Streets, Brooklyn

17 June 1930
complainant: Mr. W.M. Levitt
350 South 5th Street, Brooklyn

Commissioner Wynne replied to Levitt that the only remedy was to resort to a summons against the contractor for violation of Sections 1530 and 1532 of the Penal Law or Public Nuisance Act; to gather more than three complainants; and to take the offenders to court. Levitt's neighbor, Jack Jekowsky, also complained of this same noise in June 1930, and received the same response. In other cases, however, when people complained of the noise of contractors working on municipal projects, complainants were informed that, if the work was contracted by a Borough or other municipality, there was no legal recourse to abate the work-related noise.

Intolerable Night Noises at a Water Shaft
South 5th Street and Keap Street, Brooklyn

17 June 1930
complainant: Mr. Jack Jakowsky
356 South 5th Street, Brooklyn

Health Commissioner Wynne sent Mr. Jakowsky a form-letter reply, passing along some basic information about taking a noise offender to court under the municipal nuisance laws.

Sinking of a Water Main Shaft By contractor Patrick McGovern Inc.
Bryant and Westchester Avenues, Bronx

9 May 1930
complainant: Dr. F.P. Baumritter
1109 Bryant Avenue, Bronx

Commissioner Wynne wrote to Baumritter indicating that the contractor, Patrick McGovern Inc., was licensed by the Board of Water Supply to operate in three 8-hour shifts around the clock. He noted that a similar complaint was submitted against this company by a Mrs. Wagman of 590 Bronx Park South, who took the issue to the Magistrates Court to petition against the night noise. After several hearings and adjournments, this case was dismissed. Nonetheless, he indicated that the Doctor's complaint would be forwarded to the Board of Water Supply.

Sinking of Shaft for a Water Main
Bryant and Westchester Avenues, Bronx

30 April 1930
complainant: Samuel J. Joseph, On Behalf of Owners and Tenants
1025-1027 East 167th Street, Bronx

Commissioner Wynne wrote to Joseph indicating that the contractor, Patrick McGovern Inc., was licensed by the Board of Water Supply to operate in three 8-hour shifts around the clock. He noted that a similar complaint was submitted against this company by a Mrs. Wagman of 590 Bronx Park South, who took the issue to the Magistrates Court to petition against the night noise. After several hearings and adjournments, this case was dismissed. Nonetheless, Wynne informed Joseph that his complaint would be forwarded to the Board of Water Supply.

Night Noise of Water Shaft Construction
Bryant Ave. and 167th St. [at Westchester Ave.], Bronx

21 April 1930
complainant: Mr. T. Shanley
1009 East 167th Street, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Night and Sunday Street Work of the New York Steam Corporation
58th Street and Sixth Avenue, Manhattan

11 March 1930
complainant: Helen Hutchins
100 West 58th Street, Manhattan

Hutchins wrote to both Commissioner Wynne and Mayor James Walker to complain of the night-work of the New York Steam Corporation in the street near her home. Wynne replied that, while he sympathized with her complaint, her only recourse was to take the matter up with the Borough President, as the workers were operating at night under valid permits issued by the Borough.

Night Noises of Water Shaft Construction 181st Street and Bryant Avenue, Bronx

14 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. Sophie Wagman
990 Bronx Park South, Bronx

Following up on a complaint in 1929, Mrs. Wagman procured a summons again the noisy contractor, the Patrick McGovern Company, and was called to the West Farms Court under Magistrate Albert Vitale on 21 January 1930. Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, of the Department of Health, was instructed to have "a couple of efficient inspectors" assigned to the case, and also to ask former Commissioner of Health Dr. Thomas Darlington to appear in court. Blauvelt reported, after the court date, that Magistrate Vitale adjourned the case for one week and ordered Mrs. Wagman to take her complaint to the District Attorney for the Bronx. Magistrate Vitale may have had other things on his mind; he had been accused, in late 1929, of consorting with gangsters like Arnold Rothstein. In March 1930 he would be removed from the bench.

Night Noise from Construction of Water Shaft 12A
Anable Avenue and Bragaw Street [Now 48th Avenue and 39th Place], Queens

19 September 1930
complainant: Hon. Peter McGarry, Registrar, County of Queens
Neighborhood of Anable Avenue and Bragaw Street, Queens

Health Commissioner Wynne forwarded McGarry's complaint to Mr. Benjamin Einbogler, Secretary of the Board of Water Supply. He also informed McGarry that, in a similar complaint in the Bronx last year, the residents took the contractor to court but lost.

Pipe-Laying
34th St., between Seventh and Eighth Aves., Manhattan

28 August 1930
complainant: Miss Magdalen Schuyler
215 West 34th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Pumping Station
[Near 612 Harmony Ave/Harmony Road?], Roxbury, Queens

7 July 1933
complainant: Mr. Martin Hauss
612 Harmony Avenue [6-12 Harmony Road?], Roxbury, Queens

Mr. Hauss's complaint was referred to Dr. John Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Queens, for investigation. The exact location of the pumping station complained of is unknown.

Radio Noise, Also "Blasting" by the Water Department
Vicinity of 167 Washington Park, Brooklyn

3 July 1930
complainant: Mr. L.W. Stewart
167 Washington Park, Brooklyn

Mr. Stewart's complaints were sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Construction Work
200th Street and Grand Concourse, Bronx

24 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Charles Conrath
2940 Grand Concourse, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Building Construction
Adjacent to 37 Featherbed Lane, Bronx

19 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Joseph Gelberg
37 Featherbed Lane, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Concrete Mixing Machine
Central Park West and 70th Street, Manhattan

21 April 1930
complainant: Mr. Leo Freed
18 West 70th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Building Construction
Opposite 140 West 58th Street, Manhattan

7 March 1930
complainant: Miss B.H. Liveright
140 West 58th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Construction Work
Central Park West, between 74th and 75th Sts., Manhattan

27 January 1930
complainant: Mr. E. W. Estes, Managing Director
Central Park West and Columbus Ave. Assn.
135 Central Park West, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Building Construction
Central Park West, between 75th and 76th Sts., Manhattan

18 January 1930
complainant: Mr. Joseph J. Corn
271 Madison Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Corn wrote from 271 Madison Avenue, which may have been his work address. Perhaps he lived near the noise of which he complained on Central Park West.

Excavation Work
93rd Street near Broadway, Manhattan

16 January 1930
complainant: Mr. Perry Philips
250 West 94th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Excavation Work
Near 91st St. and Riverside Drive, Manhattan

15 December 1930
complainant: Mr. Stanley Smith
91st Street and Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Building Construction
Opposite 4 East 66th Street, Manhattan

12 December 1930
complainant: Mr. Marshall Clark, Manager
On Behalf of Tenants
4 East 66th Street, Manhattan

While Commissioner Wynne informed Mr. Clark that building contractors were legally allowed to begin work at 6 AM, he indicated that he would have Assistant Sanitary Superintendent Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt look into the matter to see if the noise could be reduced.

DiMarco and Reimann Concrete Plant
Bainbridge and Van Cortlandt Aves., Bronx

21 October 1930
complainant: Mr. Herbert Ryan
4197 Park Avenue, [Bronx]

Mr. Ryan was informed that this concrete mixing plant was used for subway construction and thus under the control of the Department of Transportation. His complaint was forwarded to the Board of that Department.

Excavation Work
Central Park West and 92nd Street, Manhattan

15 October 1930
complainant: Mr. William Neugass
322 Central Park West, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Construction of Buildings at Rear of Hotel Weylin
SE Corner of Madison Ave. and 54th St., Manhattan

6 October 1930
complainant: Dr. Aspinwal Judd
812 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Dr. Judd wrote from a Park Avenue address distant from the noise of which he complained. Park Avenue may have been his work address, and perhaps he resided at the Hotel Weylin. His complaint would have been forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Erection of Building Foundation
Gold St. between Platt and John Sts., Manhattan

22 September 1930
complainant: Mr. Edgar A. Knapp
75 Maiden Lane, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Construction of Apartment House
86th St. between Amsterdam Ave. and Broadway, Manhattan

18 September 1930
complainant: Dr. B.R. Tupper
205 West 85th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Construction of Apartment House
770 Park Avenue, Manhattan

16 September 1930
complainant: Mr. Morrill Goddard
48 East 73rd Street, Manhattan

According to a note penciled in at the bottom of the Departments' copy of Commissioner Wynne's form letter acknowledging receipt of Mr. Goddard's complaint, Goddard was a "Reporter for the New York American." Godard's complaint, like all others referring to noises in the Borough of Manhattan, would have been forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Construction of the Worth Building
Adjacent to 33 West 34th St., Manhattan

11 September 1930
complainant: Mr. Maurice Goldsmith
33 West 34th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Goldsmith wrote from his workplace, the Progressive Leather Goods Co., on 34th Street. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Building Construction Adjoining Hotel Times Square
[255 West 43rd Street], Manhattan

11 September 1930
complainant: Mr. J. J. Jordan, Asst. General Manager, Hotel Times Square
255 West 43rd Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne instructed Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, to investigate the complaint.

Construction of Salmon Tower Building
11 West 42nd Street, Manhattan

13 August 1930
complainant: Dr. William T. Gardner
34 Nassau Street, Manhattan

Dr. Gardner wrote from his work address, at the Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York, on Nassau Street. Perhaps he lived in mid-town, near the noise of which he complained. His complaint would have been forwarded to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Construction of Medical Center
165th St. and Fort Washington Ave., Manhattan

11 November 1931
complainant: Dr. Max Rubin
130 Fort Washington Avenue, Apt. 2B, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Apartment Building Construction
Near 1630 Undercliff Avenue, Bronx

10 October 1931
complainant: Mrs. Janet Stern
1630 Undercliff Avenue, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Kitchen Reconstruction at the Steuben Restaurant
Broadway between 75th and 76th Sts., Manhattan

26 August 1931
complainant: Miss Marian Irving
215 West 75th Street, Apt. 5A, Manhattan

Miss Irving, "a working woman" who needed her sleep, sent her letter of complaint to Health Commissioner Wynne via Special Delivery, which cost a twelve-cent stamp in 1931. On 5 September 1931, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt reported to Wynne that a local patrolman from the Health Squad had investigated the complaint on 31 August at 10:00 AM and found no noise. The restaurant manager informed him at that time that the kitchen construction was complete, and the patrolman confirmed this on a second visit on 2 September. He additionally reported that the complainant was now satisfied and there was no further cause for action.

Night-Time Construction
Hudson River [George Washington] Bridge, Manhattan

25 April 1931
complainant: Mr. Charles H.J. Dilg, West End Association
485 Madison Avenue, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne referred Dilg's complaint to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, asking him to investigate. No report is extant, but it is clear that the noise of construction would have ceased by October 1931, when the Hudson River Bridge, later known as the George Washington Bridge, officially opened to traffic.

Bridge Construction
Hudson River [George Washington] Bridge, Manhattan

20 April 1931
complainant: Mr. Phillip Globerman
843 West 179th Street, Manhattan

While no record of investigation of this complaint is extant, Mr. Globerman's problem would have abated in October of 1931 at the latest, when the Hudson River Bridge (now known as the George Washington Bridge) officially opened to traffic.

Building Construction
[Near Madison Ave. and 57th St., Manhattan]

11 October 1930
complainant: Fred T. Ley
Madison Avenue and 57th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Ley, "a large owner of real estate," sent Commissioner Wynne a copy of a letter he had written to Peter Grimm, President of the Real Estate Board of New York. In that letter, he suggested the Board form a committee to identify practical means for reducing the noise of building construction. Commissioner Wynne responded to Ley's letter enthusiastically, offering the services of the Department of Health, if they could be of any aid to such committee.

Erection of Building
Opposite 306 West 100th St., Manhattan

13 March 1928
complainant: Mrs. Roy Scherick
306 West 100th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Scherick sent her complaint to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Corson Construction Co.
Vicinity of 9th Street, Brooklyn

17 September 1928
complainant: Residents
9th Street, Brooklyn

The residents of 9th Street sent their complaint to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. George Collins, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Collins that the matter would receive attention.

Night-Time Building Construction
57th St. and Madison Ave., Manhattan

11 October 1928
complainant: J.B. Renshaw
50 East 58th Street, Manhattan

Renshaw's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Early-Morning Building Construction Near The Alden
225 Central Park West, Manhattan

2 November 1928
complainant: Mrs. Blanche F. Lowenfels
The Alden, 225 Central Park West, Manhattan

Mrs. Lowenfels' complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention. Mrs. Lowenfels complained again to the Mayor of this same noise, about a week later, and she complained again in early May 1929.

Early Morning Building Construction
Neighborhood of 440 Park Ave., Manhattan

4 March 1929
complainant: Mrs. Al Warendorff
440 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Mrs. Warendorff's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter had been referred to the Sanitary Superintendent, "for investigation and appropriate action."

Early AM Building Construction
Vcinity of 225 Central Park West, Manhattan

30 April 1929
complainant: Mrs. Blanche F. Lowenfels
225 Central Park West, Manhattan

Mrs. Lowenfels had complained previously, in November 1928, about early morning construction noise in her neighborhood. This time she again complained to Mayor Walker, whose Assistant forwarded her letter to Commissioner of Health Dr. Shirley Wynne.

Early Morning Construction
Neighborhood of 173 West 78th St., Manhattan

30 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. A. Darling
173 West 78th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Darling's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Night-Time Construction
NW Corner of Fifth Ave. and 42nd St., Manhattan

17 March 1930
complainant: Mr. Guy Atkinson
4 West 43rd Street, Manhattan

Mr. Atkinson's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Construction Work
First Ave. and 50th St., Manhattan

29 March 1930
complainant: Thomas T. Hoopes
410 East 50th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Hoopes' complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Building Construction
Madison Ave., Between 76th and 77th Sts., Manhattan

10 July 1930
complainant: Mr. George P. Messervy
840 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Messervy's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention.

Construction of Gas Tank
Opposite 420 East 20th St., Manhattan

4 October 1926
complainant: Miss Helen Powell
420 East 20th Street, Manhattan

Miss Powell's complaint to Mayor Walker was forwarded to the Department of Health by E.L. Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor, for "such attention as you may deem proper or necessary."

All-Night Operation of Sand-Blasting Machine
East Side of Fourth Ave., Between 23rd and 24th Sts., Manhattan

12 April 1932
complainant: Victor H. McCutcheon
68 William Street, Manhattan

Mr. McCutcheon's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Building Operations [Construction]
85th Street at Fifth Avenue, Manhattan

23 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Mortimer C. Foster
2 East 86th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noises From the Fourth-Floor Occupants
75 Pineapple Street, Brooklyn

22 May 1930
complainant: Mr. Richard A. Malone
75 Pineapple Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Crying Baby and "Heavy Walking" Overhead in Apartment
8528 118th Street, Richmond Hill, Queens

18 April 1930
complainant: Miss Florence Brown
8528 118th Street, Queens

Florence Brown had previously written to the Health Commissioner, at the end of December 1929, to complain about the noise in her neighborhood. On 18 April 1930, she wrote again to Commissioner Wynne, commending him for his work to abate noise of radio loudspeakers and asking for a copy of the Sanitary Code. Upon receipt of the Code, she wrote back, indicating her problem with late-night noise from the tenant above her apartment, a crying baby and the walking-about of its mother. Brown asked about the possibility of breaking her lease, since the noise was affecting the ill health of her own mother, who lived with Miss Brown. A Health Inspector was sent to speak to the upstairs tenant, Mrs. Rosner, who not surprisingly said there was little she could do to stop the baby's crying, but that she would try to be quieter herself as she nursed it. Wynne had suggested to Miss Brown that, since the problem was affecting her mother's health, she might have a case under Section 183 of the Sanitary Code (the public nuisance law). Brown wrote back to ask if she might submit Wynne's letter in court, should she choose to bring suit in an attempt to break her lease, a request to which Wynne agreed. It is unclear whether Florence Brown took her case to court or not.

Noisy Neighbor
Near 228 East 36th Street, Manhattan

26 February 1930
complainant: Miss Emily H. Suydam
228 East 36th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noisy Neighbors Above Complainant
220 Boscobel Place, Bronx

3 February 1930
complainant: Mr. Joseph J. McMahon
220 Boscobel Place, Bronx

Mr. Boscobel's complaint was referred to the Lieutenant in Charge of the Health Squad, for investigation and appropriate action.

Noisy Neighbors
Near 530 Parkside Avenue, Brooklyn

9 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. Paul J. Prosser
530 Parkside Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noisy Neighbors
Near 4966 Broadway, Manhattan

2 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. George Kellington
4966 Broadway, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noisy Tenant Above Complainant, Moving Furniture and Banging on Floor
95 Northern Ave. [Blvd?], [Richmond (Staten Island)?]

15 December 1930
complainant: Robert Kaplan
95 Northern Avenue [Boulevard?], Apt. 5L, [Richmond (Staten Island)?]

Commissioner of Health Dr. Shirley Wynne replied to Kaplan's complaint indicating that "the abatement of the condition of which you complain is under Section 1530 of the Penal Code. Relief from same is secured by persons so discommoded applying to the Magistrates Court in their district and requesting a summons for the offenders." While Kaplan listed his address as Northern Avenue, no such street has been located. His complaint has thus been located on Northern Boulevard, which is on Staten Island.

Gant Family (Including Dog), Walking About in Apartment Above Complainant
1864 Seventh Avenue, Manhattan

26 November 1930
complainant: Miss Charlotte M. Jarvis
1864 Seventh Avenue, Apartment 33, Manhattan

Health Commissioner Wynne replied to Miss Jarvis, informing her that "the persons so discommoded must secure a summons from the Magistrates Court in the District in which they reside under Section 1530 of the Penal Code."

Noisy Family Named Smith in Apartment Above Complainant
121 West 62nd Street, Manhattan

10 October 1930
complainant: Mr. A. Scott
121 West 62nd Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne replied to Mr. Scott that his complaint was not within the jurisdiction of the Health Department, and that he would have to appeal to the Magistrates Court for a summons against the Smiths if he wished to pursue the situation further.

Dancing Lessons by Miss Delza
128 West 73rd Street, Manhattan

24 June 1931
complainant: Horace M. Carter
115-119 West 66th Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne informed Mr. Carter that 128 West 73rd Street was a residential zone where business activities were not allowed and that he should report the violation to the Bureau of Buildings in the Municipal Building at Centre and Worth Streets.

Neighbors Making Early-Morning Noises and Giving Voice Lessons in Apartment Building
85 Eighth Avenue, Brooklyn

10 March 1931
complainant: Anna Snayze
85 Eighth Avenue, Brooklyn

Commissioner Wynne replied to Mrs. Snayze informing her that she would need to pursue her complaint with the local police, and consult an attorney with respect to her lease. His Department additionally phoned the 78th Precinct, forwarding her complaint via telephone to a Lieutenant Cassidy there.

Radios at 131 West 94th Street and 130 West 95th Street; Singer at 146 West 95th Street; Barking Dogs at 146 West 95th Street and 135 West 94th Street; Drinking Party at 135 West 94th Street; and Newsboys Crying Headlines
[Neighborhood of 130s West 95th St., Manhattan]

21 June 1932
complainant: [illegible]
[Neighborhood of 130s-140s West 94th Street?]

On 5 July 1932, the Dept. of Health tried to contact a man named Wilson regarding an illegibly-signed letter of complaint dated 21 June, but the Department's letter - sent to the Hotel Victoria, Seventh Avenue and 51st Street, Manhattan - was returned, indicating that no such guest was registered there. The same man, once again signing his name illegibly and this time giving no return address, wrote back on 22 July to reiterate his complaint.

Unspecified Noise Caused by "Parker"
316 West 75th St., Apt. 4C, Manhattan

17 May 1933
complainant: Mr. David Mintz
316 West 75th Street, Apt. 3C, Manhattan

Mr. Mintz's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Unspecified Noise Caused by "Lowey" and Other Occupants
44 Bennett Ave., Apt. 5G, Manhattan

9 March 1933
complainant: Dr. Nicholas Kopeloff
44 Bennett Avenue, Manhattan

Dr. Kopeloff's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action.

Tenants in Apartment Above Complainant
1738 University Avenue, Bronx

26 January 1933
complainant: Miss Jean A. Hamblin
1738 University Avenue, Bronx

Miss Hamblin's complaint was referred to Dr. Arthur O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of the Bronx, for investigation and appropriate action.

Night Noises From Apartment Above Complainant
227 East 69th Street, Manhattan

9 July 1926
complainant: Cora G. Laux
227 East 69th Street, Manhattan

Miss Laux's letter to Mayor Walker was forwarded to Health Commissioner Dr. Louis Harris, "for such investigation as you deem proper," by the Secretary to the Mayor.

Pumping of Water to Roof-Top Tanks
801 and 817 West End Avenue, Manhattan

12 June 1930
complainant: Mr. David F. Hirsch
306 West 100th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Exhaust Fans
135 West 19th Street, Manhattan

20 March 1930
complainant: Miss F. Davenport
132 West 20th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Building Operations Machinery, Navarro Hotel
112 West 59th Street, Manhattan

27 December 1930
complainant: Mr. Lee K. Frankel
112 West 59th Street, Manhattan

In acknowledging receipt of Mr. Frankel's complaint, Health Commissioner Dr. Shirley Wynne indicated that Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, would make a personal inspection.

Steam Pipe and Radiator Noise
115 East 90th Street, Manhattan

18 November 1930
complainant: Mrs. A.D. Shackelton
115 East 90th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Shackelton's complaint was forwarded to the Sanitary Bureau, "for investigation and appropriate action."

Noise of "Lifts"
Vicinity of 129th St. and Amsterdam Ave., Manhattan

6 October 1930
complainant: Miss Sophie Frankel
Mid West Improvement Council
670 West End Avenue, Apt 20, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Miss Frankel apparently wrote from her work address. Perhaps she lived near the noise of which she complained.

Siren in Apartment Building
Madison Ave. and 77th St., Manhattan

2 October 1930
complainant: Mrs. Helen Simonson
64 East 77th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Unspecified Noise Inside Complainant's Apartment
427 Fort Washington Ave., Manhattan

26 September 1930
complainant: Mrs. Marie L. Grosjean
427 Fort Washington Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Siren
13 West 81st Street, Manhattan

28 August 1930
complainant: Dr. Louis Borre
175 North Street [Bronx]

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Dr. Borre's return address, in Mount Vernon, Bronx, may have been his home address. Perhaps he worked near the 81st Street noise of which he complained, or vice versa.

Noisy Water Pump, Hotel White Annex
305 Lexington Avenue, Manhattan

2 July 1930
complainant: Miss M. Merington
305 Lexington Avenue, Manhattan

In replying to Miss Merrington's original letter (not extant), Health Commissioner Wynne pointed out that it was not possible for him personally to investigate her complaint. But it appears that he did just that: Wynne wrote back on 21 July, indicating that he had contacted the Hotel's manager, Alfredo Pannaci, who informed him that the pump of which Merrington complained was shut down every night between 11 PM and 6 AM. Pannaci offered to help Miss Merrington locate the noise that was bothering her and, if it were on the hotel premises, to address it. He also mentioned that no one else on her floor had complained of any noise.

Water Pipes for Rooftop Tank
60 Gramercy [Park] North, Manhattan

7 December 1931
complainant: Dr. Elliott C. Burrows
60 Gramercy [Park] North, Apt 1A, Manhattan

On 22 December 1931, Commissioner Wynne informed Dr. Burrows that the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent had issued a notice to the owners of the building, to abate this noise. Inspector Howard appears to have investigated the complaint at some earlier date.

Exhaust Fans on Roof of Building
Adjoining 239 Central Park West, Manhattan

9 June 1931
complainant: Mr. Samuel Lipman
[239 Central Park West, Manhattan?]

Lipman wrote from his office at the Bricken Construction Corp., 1385 Broadway. Perhaps he lived near the location of which he complained. His complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action.

Ventilating Fan at Hotel Delmonico
59th St. and Park Ave., Manhattan

7 May 1931
complainant: Mr. E.E. Baldwin
510 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Baldwin resided at 510 Park Avenue. As this was a co-op building, he was also an owner. His complaint would have been forwarded to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Operation of Oil Burner
Rear of 205 East 17th St., Brooklyn

27 March 1931
complainant: Mr. Vincent M. Sozzi
205 East 17th Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise from Service Elevator in Apartment Building
212 East 48th Street, Manhattan

20 March 1931
complainant: Mrs. Wilson
212 East 48th Street, Manhattan

The complainant, Mrs. Wilson, called at the Department of Health headquarters (505 Pearl Street) in person, and her complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan. Blauvelt visited the premises and learned that Mrs. Wilson's apartment (one of 90 in the building) adjoined the elevator shaft. Upon running the freight elevator, Blauvelt noted no unnecessary or unusual noises. While he believed Mrs. Wilson to be home at the time, she did not respond to his knocking on her door, nor to her telephone, so Blauvelt was unable to discuss the situation with her. He concluded there was no cause for action on behalf of the Department of Health.

Exhaust Pipe
121 Osborn Street, Brooklyn

12 March 1931
complainant: Leo Faske, M.D. and Tenants
123 Osborn Street, Brooklyn

Dr. Faske's complaint was referred to Dr. James F. Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent of Brooklyn, for investigation and appropriate action.

Water Pump in Apartment Building
60 Gramercy Park North, Manhattan

10 September 1932
complainant: Dr. Elliott C. Burrows
60 Gramercy Park North, Penthouse A, Manhattan

Mr. Burrows had complained previously, in December 1931, of this same noise. At that time, an Inspector verified the noise and instructed the manager of the property to abate it. This time, the Health Department once again sent an Inspector, who found no excessive or unnecessary noise. Burrows was informed that there was no cause for action, and that the Department could offer no legal advice with respect to his lease.

Steam Pipes Inside Tenement
555 Edgecombe Avenue, Manhattan

27 January 1932
complainant: Mr. George C. Haas
555 Edgecombe Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Haas's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan. Blauvelt reported that numerous inspections of the premises had been undertaken from December through January, and no noise was ever detected. The building's system was judged to be mechanically fine, and there was no cause for action by the Health Department. Wynne informed Haas of this conclusion on 10 February 1932.

Pumping Machine Operating "Twenty-Four Hours a Day"
Neighborhood of 974 St. Nicholas Ave., Manhattan

29 June 1926
complainant: Margaret C. Garrahy
974 St. Nicholas Avenue, Manhattan

Margaret Garrahy's complaint to Mayor Walker was forwarded to the Department of Health by Edward Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor. Health Commissioner Dr. Louis Harris acknowledged receipt of the Garrahy letter.

Machinery Operating at Night in Frankel Building
[318-324 East 32nd Street, Manhattan]

13 July 1927
complainant: Miss Bessie O'Connell
[325 East 31st Street, Manhattan]

Miss O'Connell appears to have written to Mayor Walker from her work address, 229 Lexington Avenue. Her letter was forwarded to Dr. Louis Harris, Commissioner of Health, who noted that it would receive attention. O'Connell wrote a second letter of complaint in July 1927 from a different address, 325 East 31st Street, Manhattan, and when she complained again about noise from the Frankel Building in June of 1930, she indicated that she was a tenant at the East 31st Street location, which is near the Frankel Building on East 32nd Street.

Noise in Frankel Building
318 East 32nd Street, Manhattan

6 June 1930
complainant: Bessie O'Connell
Phipps Houses, 325 East 31st Street, Manhattan

O'Connell's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention. Miss O'Connell had previously complained about noise from the Frankel Building in July of 1927.

"Unmuffled Steam Blow-Off," Hebrew Orphan Asylum
136th St. between Amsterdam Ave. and Broadway

2 January 1929
complainant: "The Residents"
West 136th Street between Amsterdam Avenue and Broadway, Manhattan

The residents of West 136th Street sent their complaint to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, as was a second letter from around 14 January 1929. The original letters are not preserved in the archive.

Washing Machine
154 Huron Street, Brooklyn

24 November 1931
complainant: Mr. John Pawlak
154 Huron Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James F. Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Gas Station
Greenwich Avenue and Mulry Square, Manhattan

16 June 1930
complainant: Sister Felicite
St. Vincent's Hospital
7th Avenue and 11th Street, Manhattan

Sister Felicite's original letter of complaint was sent to Mayor Walker after she was unsuccessful in getting him on the telephone. The letter was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Shirley Wynne, who responded personally rather than sending the customary form letter. A Health Squad Inspector named Miller followed up with eight individual inspections over several days and nights, but at no time was undue noise observed. Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendant for Manhattan, also called on Sister Felicite, and reported that she was "amazed" by this result, noting further that she hoped to shut the station down. Dr. Blauvelt's report was forwarded back to the Mayor's office, along with the Sister's original complaint.

Gas Station
East 94th St. and 3rd Ave., Manhattan

24 June 1930
complainant: Mr. H. McGovern
183 East 94th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Auto Repair Shop
Lot Adjoining 859 Southern Blvd., Bronx

15 May 1930
complainant: Mr. G. Caro
207 East 116th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Caro may have written from his work address concerning a noise near his home, or vice-versa. Complaints like Caro's, about noises in the Borough of the Bronx, were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Gas Station
Adjacent to 180 East 94th St., Manhattan

17 October 1930
complainant: Mr. Patrick Deegan
180 East 94th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Public Service Station
374-376 Madison Street, Manhattan

12 September 1927
complainant: Occupants
368-370 Madison Street, Manhattan

The occupants of 368-370 Madison Street complained to Mayor Walker. Their letter was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Louis Harris, by the Secretary to the Mayor. Harris replied that the matter would be investigated "and appropriate action will be taken."

"Radio Nuisance" [Loudspeakers] At the Irving Place [Burlesque] Theatre
118 East 15th Street, Manhattan

4 June 1930
complainant: John Alger
14 Irving Place, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Three other residents of 14 Irving Place complained about this same noise at this time.

"Radio Nuisance" [Loudspeakers] at the Irving Place [Burlesque] Theatre
118 East 15th Street, Manhattan

4 June 1930
complainant: Robert Payne
14 Irving Place, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Three other residents of 14 Irving Place also complained about this noise at this time.

"Radio Nuisance" [Loudspeakers] At the Irving Place [Burlesque] Theatre
118 East 15th Street, Manhattan

3 June 1930
complainant: Mary P. Young
14 Irving Place, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Three other residents of 14 Irving Place also complained about this noise at this time.

"Radio Nuisance" [Loudspeakers] At the Irving Place [Burlesque] Theatre
118 East 15th Street, Manhattan

3 June 1930
complainant: Miss Marie Fitzgerald
14 Irving Place, Manhattan

Miss Fitzgerald's complaint was referred to the Sanitary Bureau for investigation. Three other residents of 14 Irving Place also complained about this noise at this time.

Radio Loudspeaker Outside of Movie Theatre
133 Lee Avenue, Brooklyn

12 May 1930
complainant: Mr. John Fraser
122 Lee Avenue, Brooklyn

Mr. Fraser's complain is referred to in a letter from Commissioner Wynne to the Honorable Patrick J. Diamond, Deputy Commissioner of Licenses, who was in charge of licensing the operation of cinemas in the city.

"Radio Nuisance" [Outdoor Loudspeaker]
[Irving Burlesque Theatre], SW Corner of 15th Street and Irving Place, Manhattan

29 April 1930
complainant: Mr. Charles Ferguson, National Arts Club
15 Grammercy Park [South], Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Radio Nuisance [Outdoor Loudspeaker] Irving Place Burlesque Theatre
118 East 15th Street, Manhattan

29 April 1930
complainant: Mr. Robert D. Doaby
75 William Street, Manhattan

Mr. Doaby wrote from his work address at the U.S. Fidelity and Guaranty Company, 75 William Street, Manhattan. Perhaps he lived near the noisy theater at Irving Place.

Outdoor Radio Loudspeaker [Irving Place Burlesque Theatre
118 East 15th Street, Manhattan]

29 April 1930
complainant: Mr. C.B. Bishop
14 Irving Place, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Several neighbors of Mr. Bishop also complained of this noise, at this time, and again in early June 1930.

Outdoor Loudspeaker
Winter Garden Theatre, 1634 Broadway, Manhattan

19 April 1930
complainant: Mr. George Lamont
1639 Broadway, Manhattan

Mr. Lamont wrote from his place of work, Rismont Products Inc., which was near the Winter Garden Theatre on Broadway. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise from B.F. Keith [Prospect] Theatre
327 9th Street, Brooklyn

24 September 1931
complainant: Mrs. S. Mulholland
310 8th Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Open-Air Movie Theatre Loudspeakers
1525 Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn

31 May 1930
complainant: Patrick Diamond, Deputy Commissioner, Dept. of Licenses
6 Reade Street, Manhattan

Deputy Commissioner of Licenses Patrick Diamond wrote to Health Commissioner Wynne to inquire about the licensing of an open-air cinema, which had operated as a silent cinema for the past few years on a vacant lot. The operator now proposed to offer sound motion pictures, and he asked Diamond if this would present any problems with respect to nearby residences. Diamond asked for Wynne's advice, particularly with respect to the new amendment to the Sanitary Code, Section 215-A, which concerned the operation of loud-speaking devices. Wynne replied that such installations would indeed now constitute a Code violation, and he spoke strongly against the licensing of any such outdoor theaters.

Loud Speaker, Roof of the Majestic Theatre
185th St. and St. Nicholas Ave., Manhattan

3 September 1930
complainant: Josephine W. Sullivan
220 Wadsworth Avenue, Apt. 604, Manhattan

Sullivan's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive prompt attention. Sullivan had complained earlier, in June of 1930, about this same noise and the documents associated with this earlier complaint are included here for reference.

Outdoor Cinema Loud Speaker [Rooftop Installation at the Majestic Theatre]
St. Nicholas Ave. and 185th St., Manhattan

24 June 1930
complainant: Josephine W. Sullivan
220 Wadsworth Avenue, Manhattan

Sullivan wrote her complaint to Mayor Walker, claiming that the noise of this loudspeaker was making her ill. The Mayor's office forwarded the letter to Hon. Patrick J. Diamond, Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Licenses, who forwarded it to the Department of Health. The complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent, Borough of Manhattan, "for investigation and appropriate action." Sullivan complained again in September of 1930, specifying that the noise came from a loudspeaker on the roof of the Majestic Theatre.

Deliveries to Fuel Oil Tanks
SW Corner of West 75th St. and Riverside Dr., Manhattan

10 January 1930
complainant: Mr. B.H. Janssen
82-88 Brown Place, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Janssen may have written from work, as his return address is quite far from the noise of which he complained. Perhaps he lived on Riverside Drive.

Garage of Rubel Coal Company
617-669 62nd St., Brooklyn

6 April 1931
complainant: Mr. Vincent DeSantis and Petitioners
660 61st Street, Brooklyn

Mr. DeSantis's original letter of complaint of 6 April is not preserved. It was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superindendent for Brooklyn, who reported that, while Health Department Inspectors did find noises from planing machines and trip hammers coming from the site which could be heard at the premises of several of the petitioners, the Rubel Coal Company was operating under a legal permit and the noises were necessarily incident to the work being performed on site, thus the Health Department was unable to take action against it. DeSantis would have to take the matter to court under the Public Nuisance Law, Section 1530 of the Penal Code, if he wished to pursue it further. Morrison noted that the Department of Health's records would be made available upon Subpoena, if the petitioners decided to go to court.

Borden and Jersey Milk Companies
435 and 436 West 18th Street, Manhattan

12 June 1930
complainant: Mr. Thomas Dall
429 West 18th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noisy Neighborhood Children and Employees of Jetter's Dairy
43 Perry Street, Manhattan

12 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Natalie Laurence
38 Perry Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Sheffield Dairy Milk Depot
632 125th Street, Manhattan

18 February 1930
complainant: Mrs. C.H. Prescott Jr.
522 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

The Sheffield Farms Dairy, at 632 125th Street, was built in 1911 and could process and pasteurize over 15,000 bottles per hour. Delivery wagons were loaded under a copper canopy at the front of the structure. The building, sans canopy, is now owned by Columbia University.

Sheffield Farms Milk Depot
632 West 125th Street, Manhattan

8 December 1931
complainant: Mr. Clinton Graham
Riverside Drive [near 125th Street], Manhattan

Mr. Graham had complained about the Sheffield Dairy two months earlier, in October 1931. When Sanitary Inspectors checked it out pursuant to Graham's December complaint, they found "no cause for action." Built in 1911, it could process and pasteurize over 15,000 bottles per hour. Delivery wagons were loaded under a copper canopy at the front of the structure. The building, sans canopy, is now owned by Columbia University.

Sheffield Farms Milk Depot
632 West 125th Street, Manhattan

7 October 1931
complainant: Mr. Clinton Graham
Riverside Drive [near 125th Street], Manhattan

Mr. Graham complained about the Sheffield depot again in December 1931. Built in 1911, it could process and pasteurize over 15,000 bottles per hour. Delivery wagons were loaded under a copper canopy at the front of the structure. The building, sans canopy, is now owned by Columbia University.

Prudential Milk Co.
413 East 18th Street, Manhattan

30 October 1931
complainant: Mr. David F. Mayer, for Mr. Vincent Cioffi, Building Owner
420 East 18th Street, Manhattan

Mayer was informed by Health Commission Dr. Shirley Wynne that his complaint had been referred to the Bureau of Food and Drugs for investigation. Both locations shown here are now part of the Stuyvesant Town residential complex.

Driver for Sheffield Farms Dairy Who Noisily Sorts and Stacks Metal Cans
Vicinity of 2257 Haviland Ave., Bronx

14 September 1931
complainant: Mrs. S.M. Costigan
2257 Haviland Avenue, Bronx

Mrs. Costigan's complaint was referred to the Bureau of Food and Drugs "for investigation and appropriate action."

Sheffield Farms Dairy
Carlton Ave. and Pacific St., Brooklyn

8 July 1931
complainant: Mr. C.E. Russett
545 Carlton Avenue, Brooklyn

Commissioner Wynne informed Mr. Russett that his complaint had been referred to Thomas F. Everett, Acting Director of the Bureau of Food and Drugs.

Noisy Trucks, Edelstein Dairy Warehouse
48-50 Seigel Street, Brooklyn

1 September 1933
complainant: Jack A. Haft and Petitioners
44-65 Seigel Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Haft was informed, on behalf of all the petitioners, that their complaint had been forwarded to the Bureau of Food and Drugs for attention. On 14 September, the Supervisor in Charge of the Division of Milk and Milk Inspection reported that Inspector Joseph Goldstein had investigated the complaint, interviewing several petitioners as well as the local police, who said that no action had been taken because they had found no cause for action at any time which would warrant the serving of a summons. Goldstein also spoke with the operator of the Dairy, and warned him to cease any unnecessary noise. Petitioners subsequently reported an improvement in the situation, but Mr. Haft telephoned the Department of Health on 14 September to complain again. Additional inspections were made on September 20, no undue noise was noted, and Mr. Haft indicated that conditions were now much improved. Five days later, however, a Mr. Dickstein, owner of 57 Seigel Street, complained again on behalf of his tenants. Additional reinspections found no unnnecessary noise being caused by the dairy, although a push-cart market in the vicinity of the dairy was noted to cause noise in this area. On 4 October, Mrs. Dickstein was interviewed and she noted that "they are not making as much noise as they did and it is alright now." At this time the case was closed.

Sheffield Farms Dairy Employees
[Near 1114 East 180th St., Bronx]

19 December 1927
complainant: Joseph Saitta
1114 East 180th Street, Bronx

Mr. Saitta wrote his complaint to Mayor Walker. His letter was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Louis Harris by the Secretary to the Mayor. Harris replied that the matter would receive attention.

Bond Bread Bakery
Opposite 3240 Barker Avenue, Bronx

17 June 1930
complainant: Mr. George A. Grattarola
3240 Barker Avenue, Bronx

Mr. Grattarola's complaint was echoed by other residents in his neighborhood who were also bothered by the noise of the Bond Break Bakery. His complaint would have been forwarded to Dr. Arthur J. O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Bond Bread Bakery
Barker and Rosewood Avenues, Bronx

5 June 1930
complainant: Joseph Flynn
3246 Barker Avenue, Bronx

Mr. Flynn had apparently written to both Health Commissioner Wynne and Mayor Walker on 5 June 1930, complaining of the Bond Bakery's noise. The Health Dept. directed his complaint to Dr. Arthur J. O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent, Borough of the Bronx, for "immediate investigation and appropriate action." The Mayor's office, slower to respond, contacted Flynn later in July prompting this follow-up complaint to Dr. Wynne on 31 July 1930, in which Flynn made clear that the noise had in no way been remediated. Upon receipt of this letter, the Health Dept. called the Flynns at home and scheduled an inspection for Saturday night 1 August 1930. A hand-written note dated 8 August on Flynn's letter indicates this inspector, "Ridley," would be following up in the "Trial Board" [?]. Flynn wrote again to the Department in July of 1933 to complain of this same noise. Several other Barker Avenue residents also complained of the Bond Bread Bakery's noise, in June 1930 and July 1933.

Bond Bread Bakery
Barker Avenue and Rosewood Street, Bronx

6 June 1930
complainant: Mr. Henry E. Pignone
3242 Barker Avenue, Bronx

Mr. Pignone's neighbors Joseph Flynn and George Grattarola also complained about noise from the Bond Bread Bakery at this time. As with these others, Pignone's complaint would have been forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur J. O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Dough-Mixing Machines
4th Floor of 2344-48 Decatur St., Queens

22 March 1930
complainant: Mr. William F. Neubeck
2344-48 Decatur Street, Queens

While Commissioner Wynne's response shows a return address in Brooklyn, the content of the letter makes clear that Neubeck lived on Decatur Street in Queens. A Health Squad inspector was sent to these premises on three separate occasions. The noise complained of was observed on one of these visits, and Mr. Neubeck was advised to invoke the aid of the District Attorney's office, under Section 1530 of the Penal Code, as this noise was not under the jurisdiction of the Department of Health through the Sanitary Code. Commissioner Wynne informed Neubeck that a copy of the inspector's report would be made available, should he choose to take the offender to court.

Cushman Baking Co. Factory
Beach 79th St. and Rockaway Beach Blvd., Queens

18 January 1930
complainant: Mr. Oscar Drucker
185 Beach 79th Street, Queens

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Bakery Shop
1560 St. Nicholas Avenue, Manhattan

10 October 1930
complainant: Mr. R.M. DeLeeuw
564 West 189th Street, Manhattan

Health Commissioner Wynne wrote back to Mr. DeLeeuw on 24 October 1930, indicating that, upon two separate inspections of the bakery, no unnecessary noise had been observed.

Bakery
1771 Southern Boulevard, Bronx

7 December 1931
complainant: Mr. Louis Dvorkin
1767 Southern Boulevard, Bronx

Health Commissioner Dr. Shirley Wynne informed Mr. Dvorkin that his complaint had been forwarded to Thomas Everett, Acting Director for the Bureau of Food and Drugs.

Bakery
1323 Lafayette Avenue, Bronx

24 August 1931
complainant: Mr. Jerome Saalberg, On Behalf of Tenants
1325 Lafayette Avenue, Bronx

Commissioner Wynne reported to Mr. Saalsberg on 18 September that an Investigator had been sent to the site, and had nailed shut the windows of the bakery to prevent the escape of noise into the neighborhood, thus abating the noise. On 22 September, however, Mr. Saalsberg wrote back to report that the windows had been re-opened and the noise was as bad as ever.

Bakery
1005 Ogden Avenue, Bronx

13 April 1931
complainant: Mr. Thomas J. Maloney
1008 Summit Avenue, Bronx

Mr. Maloney's complaint was referred to the Bureau of Food and Drugs for investigation and appropriate action.

Cushman Company [Bakery]
Beach 79th St. and Rockaway Beach Blvd., Queens

11 July 1932
complainant: Mr. Oscar C. Drucker, On Behalf of Petitioners
186 Beach 79th Street, Queens

Mr. Drucker's complaint was forwarded to the Bureau of Food and Drugs. He had complained previously, in January 1930, about this same noise.

General Baking Company
Rosewood St. and Barker Ave., Bronx

27 July 1933
complainant: Joseph Flynn
3246 Barker Avenue, Bronx

Mr. Flynn had complained previously, in June of 1930, of noise from a bakery at this location. As had been the case then, his complaint was referred to Dr. Arthur O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of the Bronx, for investigation. In both 1930 and 1933, other residents of the neighborhood also complained about noise from this bakery.

Bond Bread Factory
Opposite 3240 Barker Ave., Bronx

12 July 1933
complainant: Mr. George A. Grattarola
3240 Barker Avenue, Bronx

Mr. Grattarola's complaint was referred to an Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for investigation. His neighbor Mr. Flynn also complained of this noise at this time, and both Flynn and Grattarola had complained before, back in June of 1930.

Night-Time Operation of Machinery, Fairbanks-Brooks Bakery
1290 Amsterdam Avenue, Manhattan

5 July 1933
complainant: Frank R. Clune
347 Madison Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Clune had originally complained to Mayor Walker, whose office forwarded the letter to the Department of Health. He wrote from a mid-town address on Madison Avenue. It is likely that he lived uptown, near the late-night noise of which he complained. His complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Early AM Bakery Noises
7818 Thirteenth Avenue, Brooklyn

10 April 1929
complainant: Mrs. A. Fehrenbacher
1271 79th Street, Brooklyn

Mrs. Fehrenbacher's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Whistle
Opposite 67 Broad Street, Manhattan

26 July 1930
complainant: Edith Warren
803 Avenue A, Bayonne, NJ

While Miss Warren took the time to write a note to Health Commissioner Wynne to thank him for his attention to her noise complaint, she seemed to assume that the result of this attention would be the cessation of the annoying whistle. This may or may not have been the case. Since her home was across the bay in Bayonne, NJ, Warren may have worked in the area of her complaint.

Loud Whistle at Starlight Amusement Park
East Tremont Ave. at West Farms Road, Bronx

12 May 1930
complainant: Mr. John F. Dooley
1821 West Farms Road, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Whistle
[Near 305 Lexington Avenue, Manhattan]

10 February 1930
complainant: Mr. Merington
305 Lexington Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Merington apparently did not specify the location of the whistle that disturbed him, but it was probably in the vicinity of his residence.

Whistle at New York Edison Power Plant
East 26th St, Between Third and Lexington Aves., Manhattan

14 July 1932
complainant: Mr. John Scarpe
364 Third Avenue, Apt. 21, Manhattan

Mr. Scarpe originally complained to the Noise Abatement Commission. Dr. Charles Bolduan of the Dept. of Health wrote back to inform Scarpe the Commission was no longer at work, but that his complaint had been forwarded to the appropriate Assistant Sanitary Superintendent (Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt) for action. Mr. Scarpe returned this letter to the Department of Health on 8 August 1932, indicating that nothing had been done. One month later, Dr. Wynne queried Dr. Blauvelt, asking for a report. The correspondence ends there.

Factory Whistles
Near 3030 Northern Blvd., Queens

8 January 1932
complainant: Mr. Charles B. Williams, Honorary Deputy Commissioner of Public Works, Queens, On Behalf of Mr. H.E. Whiting
3030 Northern Boulevard, Long Island City, Queens

Mr. Williams's complaint was referred to Dr. John Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, for investigation and appropriate action.

Late-night Festivities at the Hungarian Club
350 East 81st Street, Manhattan

17 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Leopold Philipp, On Behalf of Owner and Tenants
333 East 80th Street, Manhattan

A hand-written note on Mr. Philipp's letter indicates that a member of the Health Department's staff called Philipp to inform him that this complaint should be made to the Police Department. Philipp responded that he would take it up directly with Police Commissioner Mulrooney.

Noisy Radio
Cypress Hills Sporting Club, Brooklyn

15 May 1930
complainant: Miss Elsie G. Shroder
24 Hemlock Street, Brooklyn

In acknowledging receipt of her complaint, Commissioner Wynne assured Miss Shroder that her name would not be revealed when the noise was investigated. The specific location of the Cypress Hills Sporting Club has not been determined, but there is currently a rifle and pistol range at 74-16 Jamaica Avenue, not far from where Miss Shroder lived. Assuming that the Sporting Club was similarly for gunmen and women in 1930, one can sympathize with Miss Shroder's concern about anonymity...

Noise from The Level Club
253 West 73rd Street, Manhattan

5 April 1930
complainant: Unknown
[Near 253 West 73rd Street, Manhattan]

The complaint, by an unspecified party, is recorded in a memo from Commissioner Wynne to Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt. The Level Club was a Masonic organization whose luxurious headquarters boasted a hotel for members, dining rooms, a rooftop garden, gymnasium, pool, and 1500-seat theatre. The Club suffered financially financially after the Crash of '29, however, and in 1930 (at the time of this complaint) it operated as a men's hotel open to the public. The building was foreclosed upon in 1931.

Loud Music from Night-Time Rooftop Dances
Church of the Holy Name, 97th St. and Amsterdam Ave., Manhattan

15 March 1930
complainant: Professor Richard Gottheil
220 West 98th Street, Manhattan

Professor Gottheil, a Professor of Semitic Languages at Columbia University, wrote to Charles Burlingham, a member of the Noise Abatement Commission, on 15 March 1930 complaining of noise from outdoor roof-top dances at a Catholic community center near his apartment building. "Of course," he wrote, "the music is nothing but Jazz, and the noise is practically unbearable for the whole neighborhood." The complaint was forwarded to the Department of Health, to Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, who queried his boss on how to proceed. Blauvelt met with the Assistant Pastor of the Holy Name Church, who informed him that no dances had been held since the past September. Blauvelt was additionally told that Gottheil "was known as a persistent complainant, and no attention had been paid to him, lately, nor would any be given him in the future." Commissioner Wynne wrote to Gottheil that the noise of which he complained must be coming from a different location, and that the Department would attempt to locate it, but unless it violated the specific strictures of the Sanitary Code, the Department of Health would have no jurisdiction to act and he would have to address it through the Penal Code or Public Nuisance Act and take the offender to court.

Music from Swimming Pool
Jamaica Ave. Near Crescent St., Brooklyn

28 July 1931
complainant: Joan Shroder
24 Hemlock Street, Brooklyn

Shroder wrote to Commissioner Wynne to thank him for addressing her previous complaint regarding this noise.

YMCA
Opposite 1 West 64th St., Manhattan

25 June 1932
complainant: Mr. E.W. Estes, Central Park West and Columbus Ave. Assn.
On Behalf of Tenants of Harperly Hall
1 West 64th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Late-Night Noise of Miniature Golf Course
Vacant Lot Next to 1494 University Ave., Bronx

26 September 1930
complainant: Miss Gladys Allen
1494 University Avenue, Bronx

Miss Allen had initially complained earlier in September, when the miniature golf-course first appeared on the vacant lot next to her apartment building. Her complaint was referred to the Police, who informed her that she would have to take the operators of the amusement to court to enforce an earlier closing time. She wrote again to Commissioner Wynne to complain of this situation, and to petition him to take legislative action against this problem. In fact, such legislation was pending, and Wynne replied to let her know this.

Late-Night Noise of Miniature Golf Course
Adjacent to 8300 Fourth Ave., Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

8 September 1930
complainant: John Lake, Treasurer, Lake Bros. (Building Owners), On Behalf of Tenants
8300 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn

Mr. Lake wrote to John Kelly, the Assistant Secretary to the Health Commissioner, and mentioned that he wrote at the urging of his friend, Jeff Wynne [perhaps a relative of Commissioner Shirley Wynne?]. Commissioner Wynne forwarded the complaint to Police Commissioner Edward Mulrooney, and Kelly informed Lake that legislation to regulate the operating hours of such amusement sites was currently pending. The correspondence included here relates to that legislation.

"Tom Thumb" Golf Course
Broadway Gardens, Long Island City, Queens

2 September 1930
complainant: Mr. Gustav Hepach
32-35 30th Street, Queens

Mr. Hepach had complained previously of this noise, around 21 August 1930. His complaint would have been forwarded to Dr. John H. Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Queens.

Miniature Golf Course at Broadway Gardens
31st St. and Broadway, Long Island City, Queens

21 August 1930
complainant: Mr. Gustav Hepach
32-35 30th Street, Queens

Mr. Hepach complained again of this same noise around 2 September 1930.

Miniature Golf Course
Near 317 West 95th Street, Manhattan

20 August 1930
complainant: Miss Caroline Kasner
317 West 95th Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne acknowledged receipt of Miss Kasner's complaint and referred to to Lieutenant Patrick J. O'Riordan of the Health Squad, "for appropriate action."

Miniature Golf Course
84th Street and Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn

30 March 1931
complainant: Mr. Jerome Lake, Treasurer, Lake Bros. Real Estate Corp., On Behalf of Tenants
8300 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn

Mr. Lake had previously complained of this miniature golf course in September 1930. At that time he had been informed that legislation to regulate these amusements was pending. When he wrote to Commissioner Wynne again in March 1931, he noted that "these places are beginning to blossom forth again," and indicated that he hoped to get an early start on abating their nuisance, before he lost any more tenants. At this time, Lake was informed by telephone that the ordinance was scheduled to pass at the next meeting of the Board of Aldermen, and after that meeting he was both called and sent a letter informing him of the new law. He was instructed to contact James Geraghty, Commissioner of the Department of Licenses, to restrict the hours of operation of the course.

[Miniature] Golf Course Operating After Midnight
192nd St. and Jerome Ave., Bronx

27 June 1930
complainant: John C. Tierney and Residents
2554 Davidson Avenue, Bronx

Tierney et al.'s complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention.

Unspecified Noise
[near 1464 Greene Avenue, Brooklyn]

23 June 1930
complainant: Dr. Emmanuel Gogel
1464 Greene Avenue, Brooklyn

The specific nature and location of Gogel's complaint are not evident in the extant correspondence, but the noise was probably located near his home. Commissioner Wynne responded that "the noise complained of is not analogous to 'radio noises,' and this cannot be directly prohibited by the Health Department." Gogel was recommended to turn to the Public Nuisance Act, Penal Law Sections 1530 and 1532, and take the offender to court.

Noise from Steiner Building
257 West 17th Street, Manhattan

16 July 1930
complainant: Mrs. Mary Bubser, R.N.
253 West 16th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise in Vicinity of the Hotel Bolivar
Central Park West and 83rd St., Manhattan

16 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Goldie Taub
Hotel Bolivar, Central Park West and 83rd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
Madison Avenue at 48th Street, Manhattan

16 June 1930
complainant: Dr. Edwin Beer
Hotel Chatham, Vanderbilt Avenue and 48th Street, Manhattan

Dr. Beer sent a telegram to Commissioner Wynne to submit his complaint. While Vanderbilt Avenue now terminates at 47th Street, in 1930 it ran through to 49th Street.

Various Annoying Noises
150 West 85th Street, Manhattan

29 May 1930
complainant: Miss Gertrude Heyman
130 West 85th Street, Manhattan

Miss Heyman apparently complained of noise to the Department of Health sometime in May 1930 and was dissatisfied with the outcome, for she wrote again on 29 May 1930 informing them that their response was unsatisfactory. She also wrote to Mayor Walker in early June 1930, and that noise complaint was forwarded to Health Commissioner Dr. Shirley Wynne.

Noises Coming From a Building
54 Bleeker Street, Manhattan

26 May 1930
complainant: Mr. Harry Phillips
[near 54 Bleeker Street, Manhattan]

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Neighborhood Noise
8528 118th Street, Richmond Hill, Queens

27 December 1929
complainant: Miss Florence Brown
8528 118th Street, Queens

Miss Brown would later (April-May 1930) carry on an extended correspondence with Health Commissioner Wynne regarding noise coming from the tenants in the apartment above her own.

Noise on the Premises
122 Second Avenue, Manhattan

19 May 1930
complainant: Mr. J. Huff
52 West 120th Street, Manhattan

Mr. J. Huff wrote on behalf of the Estate of August Huff, from an uptown address far from the noise complained of. Perhaps August Huff lived downtown near the noise and J. Huff wrote on his behalf, or perhaps the Estate owned a downtown property affected by the noise.

General Noise
[Near 436 East 83rd Street, Manhattan]

13 May 1930
complainant: Mr. Frederick L. Dorman
436 East 83rd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Dorman did not specify the location of the noise that bothered him, so it is assumed to be near or around his residence.

Noise and Smoke
[Near 1235 Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn]

13 May 1930
complainant: Mrs. May Ulrich
1235 Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mrs. Ulrich did not specify the location of the noise that bothered her, so it is assumed to be near or around her residence.

General Noise
Vicinity of Seventh Ave. and 59th St., Manhattan

9 May 1930
complainant: Mr. Harry T. Mattice
New York Athletic Club, 180 Central Park South, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Neighborhood Noise
[Near 600 West 176th St.], Washington Heights, Manhattan

9 May 1930
complainant: Miss Elsie A. Hocking
600 West 176th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Market Noise at 3:00 A.M.
[Near 114 East 28th Street, Manhattan]

2 May 1930
complainant: Mrs. Julius Goldman
114 East 28th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mrs. Goldman apparently did not specify the location of the market that disturbed her, but it was almost certainly somewhere near her home.

General Noise
14th Street, Manhattan

1 May 1930
complainant: Miss Marjorie Alexander
14 Irving Place, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
[Near 124 West 63rd Street, Manhattan]

1 May 1930
complainant: Mr. Frank Reichhardt
124 West 63rd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Reichhardt apparently did not specify the type or location of the noise that disturbed him, but it was probably somewhere near his home.

General Noises
Vicinity of The Esplanade, West End Avenue at 74th Street, Manhattan

19 April 1930
complainant: Mrs. E. Adler
West End Avenue at 74th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
[Near 15 East 48th Street, Manhattan]

23 April 1930
complainant: Mr. James Lenox Banks
15 East 48th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." While Mr. Banks did not specify the location of the noise that bothered him, it was probably located near his residence.

General Noise
[Near 132-03 Newport Avenue, Belle Harbor, Queens]

11 April 1930
complainant: Mrs. R. Watson
132-03 Newport Avenue, Queens

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Queens were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, Dr. John Barry, for "investigation and appropriate action." While Mrs. Watson did not specify the location of the noises that bothered her, they were probably near her residence.

General Noise
15 West 127th Street, Manhattan

2 April 1930
complainant: Mrs. Savage
13 West 127th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
15 West 127th Street, Manhattan

20 March 1930
complainant: Mrs. S.C. Pike
13 West 127th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Pike was reiterating a complaint she had registered in February 1930. Her neighbor Mrs. Savage also complained about noise from this location. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Neighborhood Noise
254 Seaman Avenue, Manhattan

10 March 1930
complainant: Miss Eleanor Booth Simmons
254 Seaman Avenue, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne wrote to Miss Simmons on 10 March 1930 regarding an earlier complaint, to indicate that a Health Inspector had informed him that conditions had been corrected.

General Noise
[Near 99 Featherbed Lane, Bronx]

6 March 1930
complainant: Miss Lora Green
99 Featherbed Lane, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action." Miss Green did not specify the nature or location of the noises that bothered her, but they were probably somewhere near her residence.

Early Morning Noise
Neighborhood of 36 Central Park South, Manhattan

24 February 1930
complainant: Mrs. Maude A. Sutton
36 Central Park South, Manhattan

Mrs. Sutton complained again, in October 1930, about noise from the Cameo Tea Room, near her home on Central Park South. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
[Near 840 Seventh Avenue, Manhattan]

21 February 1930
complainant: Mrs. John B. Cot
840 Seventh Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mrs. Cot apparently did not specify the location of the noise that bothered her, but it was probably nearby her home.

Noisy Electric Sign
[Near 988 Whitlock Avenue, Bronx]

18 February 1930
complainant: Dr. Louis C. Relkin
988 Whitlock Avenue, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action." Dr. Relkin apparently did not specify the location of the noise that bothered him, but it was probably near his home.

General Noise
15 West 127th Street, Manhattan

17 February 1930
complainant: Mrs. S.G. Pike
13 West 127th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
[Near 689 West 233rd Street, Bronx]

16 January 1930
complainant: Mr. Robert W. Bray
689 West 233rd Street, Bronx

Complaints about noises in the Borough of the Bronx were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, Dr. Arthur O'Leary, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Bray apparently did not specify the nature or location of the noise that bothered him, but it was probably near his home.

General Noise
[Near 420 East 92nd Street, Manhattan]

14 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. Helena M. Schillinger
420 East 92nd Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Schillinger's unspecified complaint was referred to the Noise Abatement Commission.

General Noise
[Near 311 West 23rd Street, Manhattan]

14 January 1930
complainant: Mr. Lee
311 West 23rd Street, Manhattan

Mr. Lee's unspecified complaint was referred to the Noise Abatement Commission.

Hammering Noise
Rear of 201 West 105th Street, Manhattan

13 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. Miriam Tuckman
201 West 105th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
[Near 685 West End Avenue, Manhattan]

9 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. Ashley T. Cole
685 West End Avenue, Manhattan

Mrs. Cole's unspecified complaint was referred to the Noise Abatement Commission.

General Noise
16-18 East 49th Street, Manhattan

6 January 1930
complainant: Mrs. Anna L. Duffy
214 East 49th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
Near [West] 183rd St. and Pinehurst Ave., Manhattan

27 December 1930
complainant: Edward G. Steinert
[West] 183rd Street and Pinehurst Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise in Schurz Park
East End Ave. near 86th St., Manhattan

6 November 1930
complainant: Mr. Martin Egan
23 Wall Street, Manhattan

Mr. Egan wrote from his Wall Street work address, at J.P. Morgan and Co. Perhaps he lived near Schurz Park. Dr. Wynne responded that the noise situation in the Park would be subsequently observed.

General Noise
Near 150 Norfolk Street, Manhattan

7 November 1930
complainant: Mr. Paul S. Ente
150 Norfolk Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
Around Lexington Ave. and 59th St., Manhattan

17 October 1930
complainant: Miss Janet Martin
Allerton House
130 East 57th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise from Premises
23 West 130th Street, Manhattan

17 October 1930
complainant: Dr. Frank Robertson Boyd
21 West 130th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise from the Jewish Institute
125 East 85th Street, Manhattan

9 October 1930
complainant: Miss Frances G. Unthank
129 East 85th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
Near 222 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn

9 October 1930
complainant: Mr. Abe Helfer
222 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise in Complainant's Apartment House
333 Ovington Avenue, Brooklyn

19 August 1930
complainant: Miss Esther Condevan
333 Ovington Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

U.S. Post Office
Near 231 West 69th Street

16 August 1930
complainant: Mr. F.I. Hauptman
231 West 69th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Hauptman wrote from his work address at the GTP Realty Corporation on 69th St. He was informed by Commissioner Wynne that Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, would take up his complaint with the U.S. Post Office authorities.

Noise in Building Occupied by Wiesbecker's Food Market
[Possibly the 125th Street Market in Harlem]

15 August 1930
complainant: Mr. John Groener
195 Broadway, Manhattan

Mr. Groener wrote from his office address at AT&T on Broadway. The New York Times for 16 December 1900 ran an article about Charles Weisbecker, a wholesale butcher at the 125th Street Market, but this is the only clue in identifying the location of the Weisbecker's food market that bothered Mr. Groener. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
157 West 75th Street, Manhattan

3 September 1930
complainant: Miss Ethel Worden
164 West 76th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise from the Steiner Building
257 West 17th Street, Manhattan

5 October 1931
complainant: Mrs. Mary G. Bubser, R.N.
[253 West 16th Street, Manhattan]

Mrs. Bubser wrote from her office as Director of Social Services at French Hospital on West 40th Street, Manhattan. When she complained in July 1930 about this same noise, she indicated that she lived on West 16th Street, near the noisy Steiner Building. Her complaint would have been forwarded to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

General Noise
Vicinity of 788 Riverside Drive

30 September 1931
complainant: Mrs. Guy C. Peterson
788 Riverside Drive, Manhattan

Mrs. Peterson had complained previously, in September of 1929, about the noise of steam shovels working in the rear of her residence. Her complaint would have been forwarded to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Unspecified Noise From a "Nearby Apartment"
Near 229 West 43rd Street, Manhattan

29 September 1931
complainant: Mr. Frank L. Baker
[229 West 43rd Street, Manhattan]

Mr. Baker wrote from his office at the Society Department, New York Times, and seems to have referred to a noise near this location. The paper's offices were located at 229 West 43rd Street. His complaint would have been forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Unnecessary Noise
West 87th St., Between West End Ave. and Riverside Dr., Manhattan

24 September 1931
complainant: Mr. George F. Shrady
328 West 87th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Schrady had previously complained in April 1930 about noisy boys on his street. His complaint would have been forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

General Noise
[Near 3145 Rochambeau Ave., Bronx]

15 June 1931
complainant: Mrs. H. Schroeder
3145 Rochambeau Avenue, Bronx

Mrs. Schroeder wrote to Health Commissioner Wynne asking whether it was possible to break a lease due to noise. Wynne replied that she should consult an attorney with respect to her lease. He also advised her to write back specifying the nature and location of the noise that disturbed her, so that an investigation could be made and a report filed that would be available for any future court action on her part.

Market
Opposite 216 West 100th St., Manhattan

16 June 1931
complainant: Dr. S.G. Frank
216 West 100th Street, Manhattan

Frank's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan.

Noise From Building
Rear of 45 East 9th St., Manhattan

21 April 1931
complainant: Mr. Edward G. Steinert, Secretary, Washington Square Association, On Behalf of Tenants
45 East 9th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Machinery
615 Fairview Avenue, Ridgewood, Queens

18 March 1931
complainant: Mrs. Emma Reyeur
918 [or 919] Onderdonk Avenue, Queens

Mrs. Reyeur sent her original letter of complaint (not extant) by registered mail. It was referred to Dr. John H. Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, for investigation.

Unspecified Noise
[Near 101 West 57th St., Manhattan]

14 November 1932
complainant: Miss Maude Webber
The Buckingham,
101 West 57th Street, Manhattan

A hand-written note on the Health Department's carbon copy of Commissioner Wynne's acknowledgement of Miss Weber's letter reads "H&H Cafeteria, 1409 5th Ave." This address, up near 115th Street, is quite distant from Miss Weber's residence, however. Around the same time that she wrote, another resident of West 57th Street complained of the noise of digging and blasting nearby. Perhaps this was the noise of which she complained, and the cafeteria note referred to a different complaint.

Unspecified Noise from Premises
176 North 1st Street, Brooklyn

27 September 1932
complainant: Mr. Abe Helfer
222 Metropolitan Avenue, Apt. 20, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Helfer had complained previously, in October 1930, about noise near his residence.

Unspecified Noise
28-30 Waverly Place, Manhattan

19 August 1932
complainant: Mr. A. Townsend Kaplan, On Behalf of Owners
1 University Place and 25-27 Waverly Place, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Unspecified Noise
561 West 180th Street, Manhattan

6 August 1932
complainant: Mrs. S. Lederer
561 West 180th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

International Broadcasting Company
16 East 42nd Street, Manhattan

12 July 1932
complainant: Mr. Edward W. Forrest, 42nd St. Property Owners and Merchants Assn.
East 42nd Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

International Broadcasting Company
16 East 42nd Street, Manhattan

12 July 1932
complainant: Mr. Albert M. Thorne, Asst. Manager,
Astor Trust Building
501 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Thorne's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action.

General Noise
Vicinity of 161st St. and the Concourse, Bronx

30 June 1932
complainant: Mr. George F. Mand, President, Bronx Chamber of Commerce
215 East 149th Street, Bronx

Mr. Mand's complaint was referred to Dr. Arthur O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, for investigation and appropriate action. Commissioner Wynne's letter to Mand referred to a communication from the Stadium Operating Company, so perhaps the source of noise was the nearby Yankee Stadium.

Unspecified Noise from Premises of Daniel Moscow
157-159 East 32nd St., Manhattan

31 October 1933
complainant: Mr. A.C. Wolmark
162 East 33rd Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne wrote to Mr. Wolmark on 31 October 1933 in regard to a previous complaint. He indicated that upon "repeated investigation," no noise nuisance was discovered to exist at this location and no further action would be taken.

Noise From 3rd Floor of Loft Building
333 Humboldt Street, Brooklyn

24 October 1933
complainant: Mrs. Mary Vaccaro and Petitioners
335 Humboldt Street, Brooklyn

Mrs. Vaccaro was asked to inform her fellow petitioners that their complaint had been forwarded to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, for investigation.

Machine on Property Owned by "Frick"
71st St. and Fifth Avenue, Manhattan

13 July 1933
complainant: Mr. Walton P. Kingsley
36 East 72nd Street, Manhattan

Frick was, of course, the wealthy industrialist and financier Henry Clay Frick, who had built a mansion along Fifth Avenue at 70th Street. Frick had died in 1919, but his home did not become the museum and library complex it is today until 1935. Mr. Kingsley's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action.

General Noise
Vicinity of 617 Fairview Ave, Ridgewood, Queens

2 September 1933
complainant: Mrs. Emma Reyeur
617 Fairview Avenue, Queens

Mrs. Reyeur, writing from a different but nearby address, had complained of the noise of machinery at this same location in March of 1931. As before, her new complaint was referred to Dr. John Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, for investigation.

Machines
Adjacent to 316 Powers St., Brooklyn

14 August 1933
complainant: Mr. Del Russo
316 Powers Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Del Rosso's complaint was referred to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Brooklyn, for investigation.

General Noise
18th Street and Avenue B, Manhattan

14 June 1933
complainant: Mr. Paul Hellman
1653 Nostrand Avenue, Brooklyn

Mr. Hellman wrote from a Brooklyn address on Nostrand Avenue. It is not clear if he lived or worked near the noise of which he complained, which is now located within Stuyvesant City. His complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation. A note on the correspondence indicates that this same noise was previously investigated.

"Constant Noises"
[Near 2104 Dix Avenue, Queens]

9 June 1933
complainant: James J. Higgins
2104 Dix Avenue, Far Rockaway, Queens

Mr. Higgens wrote to Mayor Walker, whose office forwarded his letter to the Department of Health. His complaint was referred to Dr. John Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Queens, for investigation.

General Noise
[Near 227 Waverly Place, Manhattan]

10 September 1930
complainant: Dr. John Ashburton Cutter
227 Waverly Place, Manhattan

Dr. Cutter wrote to Health Commissioner Wynne pointing out the deleterious effect of noise upon the sick and encouraging Wynne for taking on the task of abatement.

General Noise
East New York Avenue, Between Howard Ave. and Union St., Brooklyn

19 September 1928
complainant: Mr. Harry Berliner
1260 East New York Avenue, Brooklyn

Mr. Berliner sent his complaint to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

General Noise
[Near 693 Prospect Avenue, Bronx]

30 October 1928
complainant: J. Dempsey
693 Prospect Avenue, Bronx

Dempsey's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

General Noises
[Near 531 Hudson St., Manhattan]

16 August 1929
complainant: Mr. Nathaniel M. Horn
531 Hudson Street, Manhattan

Mr. Horn sent a letter to Mayor Walker offering suggestions for the abatement of noises throughout the city. The Mayor's office forwarded the letter to Commissioner of Health Dr. Shirley Wynne, but Horn's letter no longer survives in the Archive and the content of his suggestions is unknown.

General Noise
[Near 2665 Grand Concourse, Bronx]

9 September 1929
complainant: John Devin
2665 Grand Concourse, Bronx

Mr. Devin's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

General Noise
Broadway Between 204th and 207th Sts., Manhattan

6 September 1929
complainant: Theodore B. Barringer
69 Cooper Street, Manhattan

Mr. Barringer's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Street Noise
Cropsey Avenue, Brooklyn

26 December 1929
complainant: Residents
Cropsey Avenue, Brooklyn

The Cropsey Avenue Residents' complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Street Noises
Neighborhood of 1037 82nd St., Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

9 July 1926
complainant: William Jay Leonard
1037 82nd Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Leonard's complaint to Mayor Walker was forwarded to the Department of Health by E.L. Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor, for "such attention as you deem proper."

General Noise
726 Manida Street, Bronx

20 November 1929
complainant: Anonymous
[Near 726 Manida Street, Bronx]

This anonymous complaint was sent to Mayor Walker and was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Night Noise
West 86th Street, Manhattan

18 December 1929
complainant: Mrs. R. I. Shank
110 West 86th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Shank's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Night Noises
Neighborhood of 922 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn

30 June 1930
complainant: Mr. Edward Bergen
922 Lincoln Place, Brooklyn

Mr. Bergen's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

General Noise
[Near 107 West 86th St., Manhattan]

6 July 1932
complainant: R. Reichenberg
107 West 86th Street, Manhattan

Reichenberg's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. In late December 1930, Reichenberg had complained more specifically about the Nero Cafeteria, opposite his home on 86th Street.

General Noise
Near 3107 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn

15 August 1930
complainant: Mrs. J. Helle
3107 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Noise from the Premises
329 East 31st Street, Manhattan

27 June 1932
complainant: Miss Bessie O'Connell
325 East 31st Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Street Flushing Machine
Along Park Avenue, Manhattan

20 September 1932
complainant: Charles A. Riegelman
375 Park Avenue, Manhattan

Mr. Riegelman's complaint was forwarded to the Chairman of the Sanitation Commission, who had jurisdiction over street cleaning in the City.

Dredging of East River at Night
Near 84th Street, Manhattan

20 October 1931
complainant: H. Bartow Farr
10 Gracie Square, Manhattan

Mr. Farr, an attorney with Hornblower, Miller, Miller and Boston, contacted both the Secretary of War and the First Avenue Association with his complaint. The Association passed his letter on to Health Commissioner Wynne, and noted that they had received "a number of complaints" concerning this noise. Assistant Sanitary Superintendent Dr Alonzo Blauvelt investigated the situation and reported that it seemed that the Army Board was committed to carrying out the dredging twenty-four hours a day in spite of complaint. Wynne passed this information on to James Hackett of the First Avenue Association, suggesting that he contact the District Attorney of New York County to see if a case could be made against the War Department regarding this noise.

Riverfront Noise
West 64th to West 66th Streets, Manhattan

1 May 1931
complainant: Mrs. Carrie R. Wakeham
The Bradford
210 West 70th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Tugboats
[Lower] East River

31 May 1933
complainant: Mr. Benjamin F. Castle, Administrative and Research Corporation
120 Wall Street, Manhattan

Mr. Castle's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Manhattan, for investigation.

Century Ornamental Iron Works
442 East 88th Street, Manhattan

27 May 1930
complainant: Charles F. May
436 East 87th Street, Manhattan

Mr. May may not have provided his correct mailing address, as the Department of Health's response, acknowledging receipt of his complaint, was returned undelivered.

Night Work at B&I Auto Spring Co.
Bergen Street, Brooklyn

10 April 1930
complainant: Honorable James Allen, Alderman
On Behalf of Four Residents
Bergen Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action." It is not clear which block of Bergen Street held the noisy workshop and its noise-plagued neighbors.

Sewing Machines in a Loft
Adjacent to 262 Greene St., Manhattan

16 January 1930
complainant: Mr. Walter A. Gunther
262 Greene Street, Manhattan

Mr. Gunther originally complained on 16 January 1930. The site was inspected on 21 and 22 January, and it was reported that the noise was "naturally incident to the character of the tailoring business conducted thereat, and that said noise occurs only during the usual working hours of said business, namely, between 8:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. daily." For that reason, Commissioner Wynne indicated to Gunther that the Health Department was powerless to abate the noise of which he complained.

I. Wohl Co. Cleaning and Dying Shop
Vernon and West Avenues, at 9th Street, Long Island City, Queens

25 November 1930
complainant: Mr. John Prudente, Independent Democrat and Civic Club of Long Island City, On Behalf of a Member
61 8th Street [Vernon Boulevard?], Queens

Prudente's complaint was forwarded to Dr. John H. Barry, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Queens, who later reported back to Health Commissioner Wynne that the situation was investigated, and, when considerable humming noise from the machinery was discovered, the owner contacted the machinery manufacturer and took measures to reduce the noise. The owner was additionally ordered to use the equipment most distant from the residence at 61 8th Street when night-work was done. The report indicated conditions were now satisfactory. The locations associated with this complaint are difficult to pin down; West Avenue is 5th Street, but 8th Street has not been located on the 1933 map, so the locations have been designated with respect to Vernon Avenue/Boulevard and 9th Street.

Machinery at the Industrial Home for the Blind
520 Gates Avenue, Brooklyn

4 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. Rose Seltzer and Petitioners
329 Monroe Street, Brooklyn

Mrs. Seltzer's complaint was forwarded to Dr. James F. Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn. An inspector from the Health Squad was sent to the site, and the manager responded by repairing the machinery and moving it to to a different part of the building. Upon final inspection, no noise was heard and the complainants were interviewed and found satisfied. The problem later returned, however, as Mrs. Seltzer wrote back in November of 1930, and again in February 1931, to complain of this same noise.

Tailor Shop
Near 50 East 96th Street, Manhattan

25 October 1930
complainant: Miss E. Battenberg
50 East 96th Street, Apt. 16, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Blacksmith's Shop
332 Stanton Street, Manhattan

26 June 1931
complainant: Mrs. Lena Jacobowitz
332 Stanton Street, Manhattan

Commissioner Wynne informed Mrs. Jacobowitz that her complaint had been referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assstant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action.

Noisy Machinery at Industrial Home for the Blind
520 Gates Avenue, Brooklyn

2 February 1931
complainant: Mrs. Rose Seltzer
329 Monroe Street, Brooklyn

A Department of Health employee noted that Mrs. Seltzer had corresponded with the Department about this same noise in 1930.

Shoemaker's Shop
1298 Findley Avenue, Bronx

5 December 1932
complainant: Mr. George Archer
353 East 169th Street, Bronx

Archer had complained previously of noise from this same shoe repair shop, in March of 1927. Eleanor Archer (presumably his wife) also complained in April of 1927. This time, his complaint was forwarded to Dr. Arthur O'Leary, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Bronx, for investigation and appropriate action.

Foundry
460 West 35th Street, Manhattan

25 August 1932
complainant: Mr. M.A. Bauer
458 West 35th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Factory and Workshop
Near 61 West 10th Street, Manhattan

30 July 1930
complainant: Miss Kay Phelps
61 West 10th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Horse-Shoeing Shop
Opposite 250 East 110th Street, Manhattan

3 July 1930
complainant: Mr. Anthony Scalero
250 East 110th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Cleaning and Dying Shop
713 Church Avenue, Brooklyn

26 June 1930
complainant: Mrs. B. Newman
711 Church Avenue, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Garant Parlor Frame Corp. Workshop
441 Blake Avenue, Brooklyn

23 September 1932
complainant: Mr. Coleman Charney, On Behalf of Owner
311 Powell Street, Brooklyn

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action." Mr. Charney complained of this same factory noise again in June of 1933.

Newman Cleaners and Dyers
978 39th Street, Brooklyn

22 July 1933
complainant: Mr. Michael Nigro and Petitioners
971 40th Street, Brooklyn

The petitioners' complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Brooklyn, for investigation and appropriate action.

Monument Maker
Marcy Ave. [Near South 9th St.], Brooklyn

15 June 1933
complainant: Mrs. A.C. Rugen
242 South 9th Street, Brooklyn

Mrs. Rugen's complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for the Borough of Brooklyn, for investigation.

Butcher Shop
2195 Broadway, Manhattan

15 May 1933
complainant: Mrs. A. Wise
250 West 78th Street, Manhattan

Mrs. Wise's complaint was forwarded to Mr. Thomas Everett, of the Bureau of Food and Drugs, for investigation.

Iron Foundry
Dekalb and Knickerbocker Aves., Brooklyn

28 April 1926
complainant: Anonymous
[Near Dekalb and Knickerbocker Avenues, Brooklyn]

This anonymous complaint to Mayor Walker was forwarded to the Department of Health by E.L. Stanton, Secretary to the Mayor, for "such investigation as you deem proper or necessary." The Department replied to Secretary Stanton that this matter "will be given immediate action."

Shoe Repair Shop [of M. Nocia]
Adjoining 353 East 169th Street [1298 Findley Avenue], Bronx

29 March 1927
complainant: George Archer
353 East 169th Street, Bronx

Mr. Archer wrote to Mayor Walker to complain of the noise from a nearby shoe shop. He also complained of "unfair treatment" from the Bronx Board of Health, but the details are not explained in extant correspondence. His letter was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Louis Harris by the Secretary to the Mayor. Harris replied that the matter was referred to the Sanitary Superintendent in Charge, "for investigation and appropriate action." Eleanor Archer (presumably George's wife) also complained of noise from the same shoe repair shop in April of 1927, and George complained again in December of 1932.

Shoe Repair Shop of M. Nocia
Adjoining 353 East 169th Street [1298 Findley Avenue], Bronx

11 April 1927
complainant: Eleanor Archer
353 East 169th Street, Bronx

Mrs. Archer wrote her complaint to Mayor Walker. Her letter was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Louis Harris by the Secretary to the Mayor. Harris replied that the matter would receive attention. George Archer (presumably Eleanor's husband) had previously complained of noise from the same shoe repair shop in March of 1927, and George complained again in December of 1932.

Blacksmith Shop
[Near Rocky Hill Road, Bayside, Queens]

3 December 1928
complainant: Peter Schutz
Rocky Hill Road, Bayside, Queens

Schutz's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Wet Wash Laundry
1805 First Avenue, Manhattan

8 July 1929
complainant: Anonymous
[Near 1805 First Avenue, Manhattan]

This anonymous complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Charles Hand, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health, who acknowledged to Hand that the matter would receive attention.

Late-Night Running of Printing Press
[Near 307 East 44th Street, Manhattan]

7 January 1930
complainant: Miss Katherine E. Kovar
307 East 44th Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action." Miss Kovar apparently did not specify the location of the noisy press that disturbed her, but it was probably somewhere near her home.

Noise of the Latin America Syndicated Press
Second Ave. and 22nd St., Manhattan

16 October 1930
complainant: Mrs. David B. Comdon
301 East 21st Street, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Metal-Cutting Saws at the Brooklyn Daily Times
Third and Atlantic Avenues, Brooklyn

1 October 1931
complainant: Mr. Thomas O'Dea
531 Pacific Street, Brooklyn

O'Dea wrote to Mayor Walker, whose office forwarded the letter to the Health Department. Complaints about noises in the Borough of Brooklyn were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, Dr. James Morrison, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Printing Plant
2409 86th Street, Brooklyn

25 October 1932
complainant: Mr. Samuel Lefkowitz, On Behalf of Occupants
2402-2414 85th Street, Brooklyn

Mr. Lefkowitz's complaint was referred to Dr. James Morrison, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Brooklyn, for investigation and appropriate action.

Scribners' Sons [Printing Plant]
43rd St. Between Eighth and Ninth Aves., Manhattan

12 August 1932
complainant: Mr. John Sullivan
308 West 44th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Sullivan's complaint was referred to Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, for investigation and appropriate action.

Salvation Army Printing Presses
13th Street, Manhattan

13 February 1931
complainant: Mr. A. C. Drummond
322 West 14th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Drummond's complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Hon. Thomas F. McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention.

Printing Plant
East 42nd Street, Manhattan

23 June 1930
complainant: Anonymous
East 42nd Street, Manhattan

This anonymous complaint was sent to Mayor Walker, then forwarded to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health.

Early Morning Noise of Ice Plant
Neighborhood of 549 West 129th St., Manhattan

30 November 1927
complainant: George F. Halloway
549 West 129th Street, Manhattan

Mr. Halloway addressed his complaint to Mayor Walker. His letter was forwarded to Commissioner of Health Dr. Louis Harris by the Secretary to the Mayor. Harris replied that the matter would receive attention.

Rubel Ice Company
Jamaica Ave. and 76th St., Woodhaven, Queens

18 July 1930
complainant: Claire L. Siegelack and Petitioners
8864 76th Street, Queens

Clair Siegelack et al.'s complaint was sent to Mayor Walker. It was forwarded by Mr. Thomas McAndrews, Secretary to the Mayor, to Dr. Shirley Wynne, Commissioner of Health. Wynne acknowledged to McAndrews that the matter would receive attention.

Mobile Advertising Loudspeakers
[Near 522 West End Ave., Manhattan]

15 December 1933
complainant: Henry M. Orne
522 West End Avenue, Manhattan

Complaints about noises in the Borough of Manhattan were typically forwarded to the Assistant Sanitary Superintendent for Manhattan, Dr. Alonzo Blauvelt, for "investigation and appropriate action."

Mobile Advertising Loudspeakers for Ferdinand Pecora Political Campaign
42nd St. Near 1475 Broadway, Manhattan

30 October 1933
complainant: Charles G. Kadison DDS
1475 Broadway, Manhattan

Kadison wrote from his office address, in the Times Building on Broadway. According to hand-written notes on his letter of complaint, a member of Health Department staff called Captain Gilligan of the Police Department on 31 October, and was told that nothing could be done. Dr. Kadison was phoned on 2 November, but was not in to receive the call.