Alfred Tredway White

Alfred Tredway White (May 28, 1846 – January 29, 1921) was an American housing reformer and philanthropist, and was known as "Brooklyn's first citizen.

[2] He advocated a model of "philanthropy plus five percent," accepting a limited financial return on his projects.

[4]White's buildings were extensively praised by Jacob Riis in "How The Other Half Lives" as a "beau ideal" and a "big village of contented people.

"[5] They covered roughly half of their lots, leaving large courtyards suitable for concerts and other recreation.

[6] He served as Commissioner of City Works for Brooklyn during the administration of Mayor Schieren.

" Workingman's Cottages " conceived by White as low-cost housing in 1876 (2009).