Domino Sugar Factory

History &
Artifacts

Explore the rich history of the Domino Park site through a fascinating collection of historical artifacts and structures. Discover remnants of the refinery that once stood here, now seamlessly integrated into the park’s landscape. Each piece tells a story, connecting the past with the vibrant present of this iconic site.

Dating back to 1856

The Domino Sugar Refinery was once the largest and most productive sugar refinery in the world. At its peak of productivity, it refined 4 million pounds of sugar daily.

98% of US Sugar

This site was the “jewel in the crown” of the Domino Sugar empire that at one point produced up to 98% of the sugar consumed in the United States. This site was also central to the growth of the surrounding Williamsburg area, to the industrialization of the Brooklyn waterfront and to the rise of New York City as a global economic powerhouse.

A Flourishing Waterfront

In addition to sugar refining, many other areas of industry — from cooperages to candy companies, burlap bag manufacturers to railroad companies — flourished in Brooklyn during the 19th and 20th centuries as a result of manufacturing synergies with sugar production.

Discover the history of Domino Park

As a result of economic, political and global changes, industrial activity in Brooklyn began to drop off dramatically beginning in the 1950s. Closing its doors in 2004, the Domino Sugar Refinery was the last major active industrial operation on Brooklyn’s once bustling East River waterfront.

The story of these grounds is the story of a diverse group of people — from those who founded it, to those who worked here, to those affected by its presence in good times and bad — who have shaped this neighborhood for over 160 years.

Building on the past

Domino Park is a tribute to story of this site and is dedicated to the diversity and resiliency of generations of Domino workers, their families, and their neighborhood.

The Refinery Landmark

Today the Refinery Building represents the physical and emotional heart of the entire Domino redevelopment and the center of Domino Park. Its intricate and expansive brick façade will forever be preserved and the iconic yellow neon sign has been reinstated.

Preserving History at Domino Park

The park includes over 30 large-scale, salvaged artifacts - components of the inner workings of sugar refining, on industry that dominated the Brooklyn waterfront for over a century.