Fort Totten in Queens in Queens County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
319 Murray Ave.
Constructed in 1905
Original use: Post Gymnasium
Current use: Gymnasium for FDNY and EMS Classrooms
Building 319 was constructed to meet the recreational needs of the rapidly expanding population at Fort Totten. The Post Gymnasium was larger and more ornate than its predecessor, a frame building from the 1890s. The gym was built near the dwellings of officers so they could easily access the facility. It continues to function as a gym for the Fire Department of New York, with the second floor serving as classrooms for the Emergency Medical Services.
[Caption:]
This gym was open to all military personnel and their guests. Activities included badminton, bicycle trainers, weight lifting, punching bags, and other workout equipment. There was also an area with tennis courts located out back.
Erected by NYC Parks.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Forts and Castles • Parks & Recreational Areas • Sports. In addition, it is included in the NYC Parks series list.
Location. 40° 47.41′ N, 73° 46.53′ W. Marker is in Queens, New York, in
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in New York City. It is also in the American Northeast. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, the Western Hemisphere, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once one of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: 318 Murray Ave. (within shouting distance of this marker); 322 Story Ave. (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); 332 Pratt Ave. (about 500 feet away); World Trade Center "Survivor Tree" Sprout (about 500 feet away); New York City Fire Department September 11 Memorial (about 500 feet away); 331 Pratt Ave. (about 600 feet away); 309 Pratt Ave. (about 600 feet away); 304 Shore Road (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Queens.
Credits. This page was last revised on September 10, 2025. It was originally submitted on June 19, 2025, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 183 times since then and 35 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 19, 2025, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
