Honoring Brother Pete G. Van Alst: Astoria’s Master Builder and Masonic Pillar
A Pillar of Astoria’s Past and Masonic Tradition
Brother Peter G. Van Alst stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of Astoria and western Queens. Born on May 28, 1828, in Dutch Kills, Queens, Van Alst was raised in a family deeply rooted in the area since the early 1700s. His education at local schools and the Astoria Institute set the stage for a remarkable career as a surveyor and civic leader, shaping the very landscape of our community.
Surveyor and City Builder
Van Alst began his surveying career in 1845, apprenticing under H.F. Betts before taking over Betts’s practice. He soon became the leading surveyor in Long Island City, producing the first official cadastral map of the city; a foundational document still preserved today. His meticulous surveys defined property boundaries, street layouts, and infrastructure, guiding the city’s rapid development during the late 19th century.
Civic Leadership and Lasting Legacy
Appointed as a city commissioner in 1874, Van Alst oversaw the construction and improvement of major roads, sewers, and public works. His leadership on the First Ward Improvement Commission and other civic bodies helped modernize Long Island City and Astoria, ensuring the community’s growth was orderly and sustainable. His contributions were so significant that several local landmarks bear his name, including the former Van Alst Avenue (now 21st Street), the 21st Street–Van Alst subway station, P.S. 171 Peter G. Van Alst elementary school, and Van Alst Playground.
Masonic Connections and Community Service
Brother Van Alst’s dedication to public service extended to his Masonic involvement. Advance Lodge No. 635, chartered in Astoria in 1867, has long been a hub for men devoted to the betterment of their community. The lodge’s own history is intertwined with Van Alst’s legacy, as the Advance Masonic Temple was built at the corner of Grand Avenue and Van Alst Avenue (now 30th Avenue and 21st Street) a testament to his enduring influence on our neighborhood’s fabric.
A Life Remembered
Peter G. Van Alst married Eliza Johnson in 1867 and raised three children. He passed away on October 15, 1900, leaving behind a legacy of civic improvement, public service, and Masonic brotherhood that continues to inspire the members of Advance Lodge No. 635 and the wider Astoria community today.
Brother Van Alst’s life reminds us that the work of one dedicated individual can shape a city for generations. Advance Lodge No. 635 is proud to honor his memory and uphold the values he embodied: service, leadership, and fraternity.
For more on our lodge’s history and the legacy of local Masons, visit our website or join us at our historic temple in the heart of Astoria.
