So they were torn down and First Houses was built from scratch, with a small number of the original foundation supports being used.

[5] The project reused bricks and employed dozens of workers on relief paid for by the federal government.

Ackerman designed the apartment buildings with rear entrances and courtyards to allow more light and air than existing tenements.

The cobbled open areas behind the buildings provided playgrounds, trees, benches and sculptures for the tenants.

'"[5] The test which the Housing Authority won was the right to exercise the powerful tool of eminent domain.