58 Kent Street

This six-story building features art deco design with terra cotta pencil sculptures adorning the upper facade. It stands as a significant structure within a designated historic district that encompasses nine buildings across two blocks.

The Eberhard Faber corporation operated this factory from the 1920s until 1952, when production moved to Pennsylvania. This period represented the height of local pencil manufacturing in this neighborhood.

The building retains its industrial character in its design and now houses modern businesses and offices. The terra cotta pencil sculptures on the facade serve as a daily reminder of the manufacturing tradition that shaped this place.

The building is located in the Greenpoint neighborhood and is easily accessible on foot, though it functions as an active workplace with modern tenants. The terra cotta sculptures are clearly visible from the street, while the interior is not typically open to the public.

This factory was a pioneer in producing the first colored pencils in America and introduced metal tip covers and rubber erasers to writing instruments. These innovations transformed pencil design and functionality across the world.

Location: Brooklyn

Part of: Eberhard Faber Pencil Factory

Website: http://olesondresen.com/kickstarter

GPS coordinates: 40.73036,-73.96088

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:11