1935: Herman Ridder Jr High School featuring Regina Resnik
Herman Ridder Junior High School stands as a notable Art Deco landmark in the Morrisania section of the Bronx, New York. The school, also known as Public School 98, first opened its doors on September 8 after construction began in 1929. Among its most distinguished graduates is Regina Resnik, the renowned Metropolitan Opera star, who appears in this class photograph. Her journey from these halls to international operatic fame exemplifies the artistic legacy of this institution.
The building, designed by Walter C. Martin, the Superintendent of School Building, showcases impressive architectural innovation, particularly in how it handles its challenging location at Boston Road and 173rd Street. Two classroom wings meet at an acute angle, making efficient use of the corner site. The Art Deco design features eye-catching elements typical of the early 20th century: graphic low-relief patterns, alternating piers and ribs, and a unique roofline with zigzag cresting instead of traditional cornices. Terracotta panels and polychrome brickwork add to the building’s visual interest, contributing to its designation as a New York City Landmark in 1990.
The school’s legacy of nurturing talent extends beyond Resnik to include other notable alumni such as Hollywood actor Al Pacino, celebrated jazz saxophonist Stan Getz, actor Hal Linden, and KISS frontman Paul Stanley. Their success stories, combined with the building’s architectural significance, have secured Herman Ridder Junior High School’s place in New York City’s educational and cultural history.
—Bonus Content Regina Resnik, was celebrated extensively for her contributions to the arts. On January 24, 1991, the mayor of New York City proclaimed “Regina Resnik Day” in her honor, recognizing her impact on the cultural landscape of her hometown. Her influence in the world of opera was further acknowledged through various accolades, including the Lawrence Tibbett Award from the American Guild of Musical Artists and a special tribute from Lincoln Center. Resnik’s significant career milestones were commemorated with grand celebrations marking her 50th and 60th anniversaries in the arts, hosted in Venice and by the Metropolitan Opera Guild at Lincoln Center respectively, underscoring her global stature in the opera community.
In addition to her performance accolades, Regina Resnik was also recognized for her educational contributions. She was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Hunter College and a Doctorate of Music from the New England Conservatory in 2007, celebrating her profound influence on music education. Beyond her personal achievements, Resnik dedicated herself to supporting the arts and nurturing future talent through various roles, including serving as a trustee of the Hunter Foundation, a member of the Peabody Awards jury, and holding positions on the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Opera Guild and the Board of Advisors of CUNY TV. These roles demonstrated her commitment to the arts and her desire to foster the next generation of artists.