The one year, $3-million renovation of the Picnic House in Prospect park is done. On Monday, couples who were married there were invited to admire the newly renovated space with its new roof, a new hardwood floor, modernized rest rooms, a
fresh coat of paint and ground-floor office space for Prospect Park
staff.

Built in 1928, the Picnic House was originally a shelter for park visitors on rainy days. Later, it became a gathering place for elderly men playing poker, Tupper Thomas, Prospect Park’s administrator told the Daily News. I found out even more about its history at the Prospect Park website.

The Picnic House represents a favorite picnicking spot for generations of New Yorkers seeking the great outdoors. In 1868, the Park’s opening year, 75 parties of over 100 received permits to host gatherings along the Long Meadow, and that was before the Park’s construction was even completed. The rapidly growing influx of picnickers earned the Park a national reputation as a prime outdoor attraction, and this inspired the 1876 construction of the original Picnic Shelter. Made of wood and brick, the rustic structure provided shelter from abrupt summer storms, first-aid assistance, restrooms and a refreshment concession. The current Picnic House, designed by Jay Sarsfield Kennedy, took its place in 1928, after a fire destroyed the original shelter.Another obsolete Park feature also made its home near the Picnic House. A wooden, octagonal carousel operated by a team of real horses catered to turn-of-the-century picnickers. After spinning creekily for 30 years, a newer version replaced the old carousel, only to burn down in 1933. In 1952, the Park’s current Carousel, located on the park’s eastern edge, was brought from Coney Island.

After an earlier renovation in the 1980’s, the picnic became a popular spot for weddings, school auctions, parties, recitals and other festive events.

"We’ve had christenings, bar and bat mitzvahs, Sweet 16 parties, anniversary parties and fund-raisers," Thoma said. About 100 weddings are held in the space each year.

Couples are invited to bring their wedding pictures to the exhibit: "Picture Perfect at the Prospect Park Picnic House." Long Meadow, Prospect Park. Enter park at 95 Prospect Park West at Fifth Street. (718) 965-8999.