A couple treasures of Old Brooklyn have been hiding under scaffolding on Fifth Ave near Carroll Street since November 2007: Joe’s Shoe Repair and the His & Hers Social & Athletic Club.

The shoe repair shop, run by 81-year old Joe Garazzo in various locations for over 50 years, is one of the last in the neighborhood. It was forced to close about a year ago due to rising rents, but was saved by the nonprofit Fifth Avenue Committee, which bought the building from the city. Because it’s in need of a gut reno, they moved him just up the block and allow him to pay minimal rent. You can still see Joe if you have shoe problems, and get a key made (just one, though, apparently). The current sign is much more utilitarian; not sure why the name and classic hand-lettered sign didn’t tag along for the ride.

Joe's still fixing shoes, 50 years and several storefronts later.

The His & Hers & Social & Athletic Club carries a bit more neighborhood lore. That sign looks like it’s been there since the 50s, two padlocks are firmly in place on the graffiti and sticker-laden door, and the window gate doesn’t look like it’s been rolled up in years.

According to a 2005 interview with Sopranos actor and local resident John Ventimiglia, it was an Italian club (not surprising, given the neighborhood’s Little Italy past), and members would play cards, have a drink or two, and bet on horses and football (hence the “athletic”). A photo reveals an interior with lots and lots of wood paneling. It was included in the purchase by the Fifth Ave Committee, and Ventimiglia has expressed an interest in turning the space into an art gallery, but it doesn’t look like much has been stirring in there for quite a while.

Artie Bucco himself, behind the counter at the Social & Athletic Club.