An Odd House in Bensonhurst

I live on the cusp of Bensonhurst and Gravesend in Brooklyn. Both are residential areas; not too quiet and not too loud. However as you drive towards Bensonhurst on 85th street, you might pass by a rather “noisy” house. The owner, Steve Campanelli, collects life size statues of icons (real and imaginary) from Elvis Presley to Betty Boop. My parents drove past this house many times and my eyes never fail to give this unique home a darting glance. Finally I decided to knock on Steve’s door and uncover the story of his statues in photos.

Steve Campanelli (left), 62, poses with Spiderman, one of many statues surrounding his home in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn.

Campanelli’s statues and memorabilia adorn the outside of his house including the inside of his garage. The tree near his front door is no exception.

Campanelli says his strong feelings of nostalgia fueled his collection. Everything on display relates to his life growing up in Brooklyn especially during the 50’s and 60’s.

Campanelli hangs out with his first statue, Fonzi, purchased 11 years ago in Woodhaven, Queens. “That was like the needle in my arm,” he says. “I was addicted.”

This old drive-through sign is placed outside the garage. Sundaes were just $1.05.

Campanelli owns a car customized to resemble the Batmobile. A likeness of Batman, pictured here, quietly sits in his famous vehicle.

Campanelli, Spiderman, and his wife Eva (first from left) enjoy a quiet moment looking out at their statues.