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Journal 1 |
Impressions of New York
For the past 23 years, I have been residing in the borough of Queens and my relationship with New York City has been a roller coaster ride of highs and lows. In my early years I was bounded to much of Queens and Long Island, not being able to explore what this grand city truly has hidden. I felt imprisoned to suburban life, never understanding what lay beyond 4-bedroom houses, picket fences and family vans.
However as I entered high school and college, a plethora of opportunities rose, giving me the opportunity to experience what New York City is truly about. With the use of public transportation, EVERYTHING became within arms reach- from Flushing Meadow Park, to Arthur Ashe stadium, Prospect Park, The Statue of Liberty, The Bronx Zoo, and the many museums scattered through out the city. The MTA is an underrated piece of technological advancement that has become the backbone of this city, allowing millions of commuters to get to their destination without it, New York wouldn’t be as vivacious and gregarious as it is today.
I love this city. I love the people, the culture, the restaurants and the man made parks. From the different and unique cities I’ve been to across the United States and the world, there is no other place that does it like New York. I suppose I can be a little bias, but there is no doubt that the diversity is incomparable. Imagine being transported into asian culture in China Town and then finding your way into Little Italy, having the best slice of pizza and cannoli's you've ever tasted. I cannot wait to see what this little class-adventure will bring. With every new experience I have in this city, it makes it harder and harder not to love.
However as I entered high school and college, a plethora of opportunities rose, giving me the opportunity to experience what New York City is truly about. With the use of public transportation, EVERYTHING became within arms reach- from Flushing Meadow Park, to Arthur Ashe stadium, Prospect Park, The Statue of Liberty, The Bronx Zoo, and the many museums scattered through out the city. The MTA is an underrated piece of technological advancement that has become the backbone of this city, allowing millions of commuters to get to their destination without it, New York wouldn’t be as vivacious and gregarious as it is today.
I love this city. I love the people, the culture, the restaurants and the man made parks. From the different and unique cities I’ve been to across the United States and the world, there is no other place that does it like New York. I suppose I can be a little bias, but there is no doubt that the diversity is incomparable. Imagine being transported into asian culture in China Town and then finding your way into Little Italy, having the best slice of pizza and cannoli's you've ever tasted. I cannot wait to see what this little class-adventure will bring. With every new experience I have in this city, it makes it harder and harder not to love.
Rock climbing at in Central park (left), Random Street Artist Portrayal (Right)
Journal 2: Quixotic Queens
Today started off with a thirty minute ride into Manhattan, arriving punctually at Penn station 10:06 AM. I spent much of my time before the class scanning food vendors around the area and watching commuters bustling through the crowd trying to get to their next destination. I couldn't help notice the amount of diversity that was filtrating through the corridors. So many people of so many different ethnicities all sharing the same space.
Our first stop on our journey was a short stroll away to 5th avenue between 40th and 42nd street to the New York Public Library. As we sat of the steps, Mike began to tell us how it was the main branch of public library, an important resource to research, and its significance to many authors spending copious amounts of time writing literature. The library grandeur exterior supported a neo- classical style motif with several monolith Corinthian style columns. Along the steps stand two majestic stone carved lions named "patience" and "fortitude." During the Great Depression, Mayor Fiorello La Guardia gave them their nicknames to represent the enduring qualities the people of New York had as noted in the Blue Guide, New York. As we continued to walk inside, I noticed how the entrance was mostly made of marble. Walking up the stairs into the Rose Reading Room (considered the most beautiful room in the city), natural light bombarded the Rotunda. Murals by Edward Laning embellish the hallways of the Rotunda (BG, 208). As we entered the Rose Room I looked up at the ceiling and adorned the carefully grafted architectural feats and wrote this poem about my experience with New York so far…
Iconic, historic
Concrete chaos, goth, deco
Informational cross roads
The next stop was Grand Central Terminal, a neo-classical themed building that helped change the way thousands of people traveled. The terminal just turned 100 years old, and is still working station. As I walked though the building, it was like walking down history. The blue ceiling is covered in astrological constellations; what I didn't know is that it was painted in "god's view" therefore viewers would be seeing a mirrored view of the mural. The clock that stands in the middle of the large open room is still present and it often regarded in history as romantic symbol because lovers would often meet at the clock.
As we continued to walk down Park Avenue, we began to discuss the four different types of architectural styles that are abundantly seen though out Manhattan (neo-classical, neo-gothic, international, art deco). We also noted the abundance of sky rise building that were specifically planted in midtown because of the stable bedrock that was there. The numerous types of popular building became more apparent to me as we pointed out some of the best examples of these styles walking down Park.
The Seagram Building, thought to be the "finest International Style Skyscraper" sits at 375 Park ave (52nd and 53rd street). The building is beautifully crafted with metal and amber glass materials forming seamless symmetry and elegance. However, many consider this type of building and style sterile and elitist as it rids all types of excessive ornamentation (BG, 238). A few steps away we walk into the Waldorf Astoria, one of the cities most expensive and socially exclusive hotels, and also a perfect example of the art deco style. As we walked inside it felt like we were transported back into the 1930’s. Light elevated piano music filled the air giving you a feeling of warmth. The lobby’s ceilings were lined with gold embellishments and art. The Chrysler Building is another example of the art deco style, portraying a futuristic fantasy element. The top of the building rests the iconic terrace.
As we headed east from Park Avenue, we finally reached the Roosevelt Island tram, bringing us over to Roosevelt Island. The Tram is a quick alternate form of transportation for New York commuters trying to avoid the 59th street Bridge or the F train. When we landed we learned about how Native Americans were once settled on Roosevelt Island until the Dutch took over and then eventually the English taking it from them. The island was first named Minnahanonck or “nice island” by the Agape Native Americans of the Huson channel but was later renamed Blackwell Island by the Blackwell family who had resided there; as time past it was then again renamed Roosevelt Island after Franklin Roosevelt. As made our way through the island we passed by the nations first pathological and bacterial research facility called Strecker Laboratory, built in 1892 (A perfect place to hold a germ lab, a secluded small island where potentially harmful microbes can be detained and studied without exposure to the public). We then passed by an old crumbling Small pox hospital built by James Renwick. Currently, Roosevelt island is a booming area for sky rise apartments as the area begins to go through a process of gentrification. Our last stop of the island was Four Freedom’s park, a memorial to Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The park’s name honors the speech FDR made on “January 6, 1941 discussing the four human freedoms: freedom of speech and expression, freedom of worship, freedom of want, and freedom from fear”.
Our first stop on our journey was a short stroll away to 5th avenue between 40th and 42nd street to the New York Public Library. As we sat of the steps, Mike began to tell us how it was the main branch of public library, an important resource to research, and its significance to many authors spending copious amounts of time writing literature. The library grandeur exterior supported a neo- classical style motif with several monolith Corinthian style columns. Along the steps stand two majestic stone carved lions named "patience" and "fortitude." During the Great Depression, Mayor Fiorello La Guardia gave them their nicknames to represent the enduring qualities the people of New York had as noted in the Blue Guide, New York. As we continued to walk inside, I noticed how the entrance was mostly made of marble. Walking up the stairs into the Rose Reading Room (considered the most beautiful room in the city), natural light bombarded the Rotunda. Murals by Edward Laning embellish the hallways of the Rotunda (BG, 208). As we entered the Rose Room I looked up at the ceiling and adorned the carefully grafted architectural feats and wrote this poem about my experience with New York so far…
Iconic, historic
Concrete chaos, goth, deco
Informational cross roads
The next stop was Grand Central Terminal, a neo-classical themed building that helped change the way thousands of people traveled. The terminal just turned 100 years old, and is still working station. As I walked though the building, it was like walking down history. The blue ceiling is covered in astrological constellations; what I didn't know is that it was painted in "god's view" therefore viewers would be seeing a mirrored view of the mural. The clock that stands in the middle of the large open room is still present and it often regarded in history as romantic symbol because lovers would often meet at the clock.
As we continued to walk down Park Avenue, we began to discuss the four different types of architectural styles that are abundantly seen though out Manhattan (neo-classical, neo-gothic, international, art deco). We also noted the abundance of sky rise building that were specifically planted in midtown because of the stable bedrock that was there. The numerous types of popular building became more apparent to me as we pointed out some of the best examples of these styles walking down Park.
The Seagram Building, thought to be the "finest International Style Skyscraper" sits at 375 Park ave (52nd and 53rd street). The building is beautifully crafted with metal and amber glass materials forming seamless symmetry and elegance. However, many consider this type of building and style sterile and elitist as it rids all types of excessive ornamentation (BG, 238). A few steps away we walk into the Waldorf Astoria, one of the cities most expensive and socially exclusive hotels, and also a perfect example of the art deco style. As we walked inside it felt like we were transported back into the 1930’s. Light elevated piano music filled the air giving you a feeling of warmth. The lobby’s ceilings were lined with gold embellishments and art. The Chrysler Building is another example of the art deco style, portraying a futuristic fantasy element. The top of the building rests the iconic terrace.
As we headed east from Park Avenue, we finally reached the Roosevelt Island tram, bringing us over to Roosevelt Island. The Tram is a quick alternate form of transportation for New York commuters trying to avoid the 59th street Bridge or the F train. When we landed we learned about how Native Americans were once settled on Roosevelt Island until the Dutch took over and then eventually the English taking it from them. The island was first named Minnahanonck or “nice island” by the Agape Native Americans of the Huson channel but was later renamed Blackwell Island by the Blackwell family who had resided there; as time past it was then again renamed Roosevelt Island after Franklin Roosevelt. As made our way through the island we passed by the nations first pathological and bacterial research facility called Strecker Laboratory, built in 1892 (A perfect place to hold a germ lab, a secluded small island where potentially harmful microbes can be detained and studied without exposure to the public). We then passed by an old crumbling Small pox hospital built by James Renwick. Currently, Roosevelt island is a booming area for sky rise apartments as the area begins to go through a process of gentrification. Our last stop of the island was Four Freedom’s park, a memorial to Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The park’s name honors the speech FDR made on “January 6, 1941 discussing the four human freedoms: freedom of speech and expression, freedom of worship, freedom of want, and freedom from fear”.
Our class then hopped onto the F train, taking a short ride into the borough of Queens and stopping in Jackson Heights. There we finally unwound at the famous Indian Restaurant, Jackson Diner. The place first opened in 1980, providing delectable ethic options to the community. The lunch buffet provided an exceptional assortment of unusual but TASTY dishes. My favorite had to be the roti with dal, and chicken masala. It was my first time eating at an Indian restaurant, and I’m sure glad it was a positive one (Indian food is underrated). Stuffed beyond belief, we started back on our journey before I knew it.
We then passed by Kaufman Studios, a television and movie production company that is still up and running. Some famous films and shows that have utilizes this legendary place include Man in Black 3, Nurse Jackie, Seasame Street, and Law and Order. Across the street, we headed into the Museum of Moving image, where their primary goal is "dedicated to the art, history, technique, and technology of the moving image in all its forms." It is the only museum of its kind in the whole country, ensuring movie fanatics an inside look into movie and gaming production. In the museum, I was able to learn about voice overs and how actors are able to manipulate their voices to help set different tone for their actors. In another exhibit I got to see the beginnings of video games, and even got to play a few of the them (pacman, frogger, and sonic).
After the Museum of Moving Image we continued to MoMA PS1 in Long Island city. Mike began to tell us the amount of change LIC has gone through in the past 20 years or so- once remembering the numerous industrious buildings and prostitution.
MoMA PS1 known for its avantgarde, edgy, contemporary take on art, many flock to this notable place to have their minds blown. In hopes to take quick look inside, we were unfortunately unlucky to catch an early closing. We then walked over to Five Pointz, a building filled with amazing graffiti art. We were fortunate enough to have a young artist who was in the process of finishing a mural to explain to us how the area worked. Basically, all the art on the wall is legal and is put/taken down depending on the curator. The graffiti can be executed by someone with no or little experience at all, and is also free of charge. Unfortunately, he was also telling us about how the area might be sold off for condominiums. While many are in protest, the battle rages on to secure what little graffiti is left in the city. To help promote their cause workers paint over any graffiti art that shouldn't belong to help encourage the neighborhood that it shouldn't be seen as vandalism but rather a unique and dying art form.
MoMA PS1 known for its avantgarde, edgy, contemporary take on art, many flock to this notable place to have their minds blown. In hopes to take quick look inside, we were unfortunately unlucky to catch an early closing. We then walked over to Five Pointz, a building filled with amazing graffiti art. We were fortunate enough to have a young artist who was in the process of finishing a mural to explain to us how the area worked. Basically, all the art on the wall is legal and is put/taken down depending on the curator. The graffiti can be executed by someone with no or little experience at all, and is also free of charge. Unfortunately, he was also telling us about how the area might be sold off for condominiums. While many are in protest, the battle rages on to secure what little graffiti is left in the city. To help promote their cause workers paint over any graffiti art that shouldn't belong to help encourage the neighborhood that it shouldn't be seen as vandalism but rather a unique and dying art form.
We then walked down to the Long Island City water front luxury apartments, where stunning views of the city are available. Just 10 years ago this area did not look like it does today, through the process of gentrification this neighborhood has gone through dramatic change (this seems to be a common theme for today). The Pepsi sign, is beautifully integrated and preserved into the water fronts Gantry park.
Journal 3: Bodacious Brooklyn
As my alarm clock went off today, I was especially estatic to wake up and start the day. Brooklyn is one of my all-time favorite hangout spots, so it was interesting to see the borough in a different light. From Penn station, we took a forty minute train ride down to Coney Island to experience one of New York's finest historical attractions.
Before Mike set us free to enjoy Coney Island in all its glory, he told us about how the entire area was once disconnected from Brooklyn and was pieced together through landfill to connect the area. Early in its history Lenape Native Americans inhabited the land, when the Dutch came over they called it Koiijin Eiland (BG, 492), which then became Coney Island. The story of Coney Island is a sad one of sorts after its closing of Steeplechase park, Luna Park, and Dreamland. The park never seamed to bounce back to its former glory, however, the city has fortunately again begun to appreciate the land with plans to rebuild the area.
Although I wasn't feeling particularly motivated to go on the rides, I was able to chow down on some good eats. Nathan's Hot dogs was a definitely no brainer, the lucrative businesses original first hotdog concession stand is still standing, feeding the masses. After waiting on line for what had to be 20 minutes (and the worst customer service EVER) I finally got to sit down and enjoy a good ole' Nathan's dog, French Fries with cheese and a corn dog. Mindless of the fact that we had to be on the road again very soon, I chomped down on my excessively heavy and greasy meal.
Before Mike set us free to enjoy Coney Island in all its glory, he told us about how the entire area was once disconnected from Brooklyn and was pieced together through landfill to connect the area. Early in its history Lenape Native Americans inhabited the land, when the Dutch came over they called it Koiijin Eiland (BG, 492), which then became Coney Island. The story of Coney Island is a sad one of sorts after its closing of Steeplechase park, Luna Park, and Dreamland. The park never seamed to bounce back to its former glory, however, the city has fortunately again begun to appreciate the land with plans to rebuild the area.
Although I wasn't feeling particularly motivated to go on the rides, I was able to chow down on some good eats. Nathan's Hot dogs was a definitely no brainer, the lucrative businesses original first hotdog concession stand is still standing, feeding the masses. After waiting on line for what had to be 20 minutes (and the worst customer service EVER) I finally got to sit down and enjoy a good ole' Nathan's dog, French Fries with cheese and a corn dog. Mindless of the fact that we had to be on the road again very soon, I chomped down on my excessively heavy and greasy meal.
As we gathered back together, we headed up to Brooklyn Heights to visit the New York Transit Museum. The museum was formally once a working train station connecting the HH train shuttle to the Hoyt-Schermerhorn station, because the stations were only a few blocks away from each other the station down due to that lack of commuters. From 1936 to 1946 the subway was used for this main purpose, it was also intended to be the first stop in Brooklyn for the 2nd avenue train line that to this is day is still being constructed till this day.
Through our awesome tour guide , Catherine gave us a quick summation of MTA history. She told us about much of population lived in lower Manhattan, quickly becoming one of the most populated city in the world. By 1827 the omni bus was introduced as the first type of public transportation in NYC. The omni bus easily fit twelve people and was pulled by horse and trolley. To stop the trolley, a rope was wrapper around the drivers leg, when you wanted get off, the passenger would pull on the string to get his/her attention. Later on, the horse drawn street car that fit twenty-four people was put into play. The street car was pulled on tracks, making the rider smoother on the paved cobble stone roads. Elevated trains powered by steam power were then used, making travel faster. In March of 1888, the worst blizzard in New York history it, 50 inches of snow accumulated over three days. The catastrophe left 15,000 stuck in elevated trains; this disaster led to the city deciding that it was time to put their subway systems, power, and communications lines to go underground. The department of sanitation was also designed the same year, forever changing the way we got rid of our garbage and essentially making New York a cleaner place.
The first underground subway was build in 1904, making it one of the world's oldest transportation hubs. Trains were built on different level throughout the city depending on how hard the rock was. In some areas like lower Manhattans the subway lines are more shallow, as you go up north to Harlem the stations get deeper. The deepest station in NY is in 191st street, 200 feet below street level.
Diifferent techniquese were used to build the tunnels because of toughness of the rock. In the more shallow areas or lower Manhatten, construction workers would use a "cut and cover" technique. Workers would dig massive holes just enough to house the subway and then cover it at street level. In some cases, many businesses were damaged or destroyed because of their proximity.
Diifferent techniquese were used to build the tunnels because of toughness of the rock. In the more shallow areas or lower Manhatten, construction workers would use a "cut and cover" technique. Workers would dig massive holes just enough to house the subway and then cover it at street level. In some cases, many businesses were damaged or destroyed because of their proximity.
While building subway, workers used controlled dynamite, air pressure drills and pick axes to carve out the rock. The hard work they put into it was known as "Steel, Stone, and Backbone." Some of the most dangerous work was carried out in the construction of the subway. For the train lines that had to pass through water, workers known as "Sand Hogs" had to go below to the water bed. Bend's disease also known as Caisson's disease was prevalent among the workers. Usually occurring to scuba divers, the diseased came out as the result of bubbles forming in blood when coming up to the surface areas too quickly. The bubbles occluded veins, arteries and vital organs leading to paralysis or death. To prevent this from occurring, workers would be put in pressurized chambers before and after they went down to work on the subway to help acclimate their bodies.
Five cent coins were first used to pay for transportation, it later turned into pre-priced tokens, and then finally metro cards. As of now, the current price for one ride is $2.50 and is unfortunately still on the rise.
After the museum we walked deeper into Brooklyn Heights, taking in some of historical value. We quickly passed by Brooklyn City Hall and learned that in 1898 it became Brooklyn BOROUGH hall when the consolidation of the five boroughs turned into greater New York. The hall was designed in a neo-classical theme, with beautifully crafted corinthian columns. A hop skip away we arrived at the Brooklyn Trust; now converted into a Chase bank, it is considered to be one of the most beautiful banks in the country with its latticed ceiling. Right across the street on Montague we passed by the church of Saint Ann, built by Edgar Bartow.
After the museum we walked deeper into Brooklyn Heights, taking in some of historical value. We quickly passed by Brooklyn City Hall and learned that in 1898 it became Brooklyn BOROUGH hall when the consolidation of the five boroughs turned into greater New York. The hall was designed in a neo-classical theme, with beautifully crafted corinthian columns. A hop skip away we arrived at the Brooklyn Trust; now converted into a Chase bank, it is considered to be one of the most beautiful banks in the country with its latticed ceiling. Right across the street on Montague we passed by the church of Saint Ann, built by Edgar Bartow.
As we continued to walk east we passed by several Brown Stone houses. Acknowledged for their sturdy exterior, Brown Stones can last a hundred years. Mike pointed out that the stoop which is off Dutch influence, is unique to New York homes. We then arrived at the location where George Washington saved his troops from invasion, although not the best General in combat he was known for his tactical advances. In just a feet we hit the Brooklyn Promenade (opening to the public in October 1950), hitting magnificent views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. Robert moses once wanted to build a highway right through Brooklyn Heights but the Brooklyn Heights Association protested. Rather, city builders constructed a two-tiered highway right on the edge of the waterfront. The park above which is now the Brooklyn Promenade was intended to isolate and help decrease the amount of noise of the Brooklyn Queens Expressway. The Promenade is stunningly one of the best places to get a picturesque view of the city.
Continuing to walk north, we entered DUMBO (Down under Manhattan Bridge overpass). An area that is another example of gentrification in the cit. Once riddle with unsanitary conditions and industrial conditions, the area now supports one of the most upwardly mobile community. The Promenade extends all the way up into the area, seamlessly connecting the two. A charming view of the harbor and a majestic merry-go-round ride is constructed right beyond the pier.
To help relieve us of the heat, we stopped by Jacques Torres Chocolate. There I took an extra adventure into their cafe' where I had the "best hot chocolate" in the world. It was subpar to say the least. HOWEVER, his ice cream was on another world. It was probably one of the best desserts I've had in a very long time. I got the Elvis which combined banana's, peanut butter and graham crumbs and my friends ended up getting the Mango sorbet (HANDS DOWN THE BEST SORBET EVER), literally tastes like a frozen mango with the texture of velvet).
Just beyond that area I began to notice how immense the Brooklyn Bridge looked from below. The bridges construction begun with a man named John Roebling in the 1880's. The idea was to create an easier way to transport commuter and goods between Manhattan and Brooklyn. At the time steam powered ferries were being utilized, the bridge would further help commerce. It would also eventually allow people to move more freely, especially if they wanted to live outside of Brooklyn into Long Island. It officially opened to the public on May 25, 1883 making it one of the world's "greatest wonders" (BG,464). The last leg of our Brooklyn Tour was experiencing the spectacular view of the bridge as a pedestrian. As I walked over I definitely wished the weather was a little better... Tired and wet, I finally made it over the bridge feeling a sense of accomplishment.
Continuing to walk north, we entered DUMBO (Down under Manhattan Bridge overpass). An area that is another example of gentrification in the cit. Once riddle with unsanitary conditions and industrial conditions, the area now supports one of the most upwardly mobile community. The Promenade extends all the way up into the area, seamlessly connecting the two. A charming view of the harbor and a majestic merry-go-round ride is constructed right beyond the pier.
To help relieve us of the heat, we stopped by Jacques Torres Chocolate. There I took an extra adventure into their cafe' where I had the "best hot chocolate" in the world. It was subpar to say the least. HOWEVER, his ice cream was on another world. It was probably one of the best desserts I've had in a very long time. I got the Elvis which combined banana's, peanut butter and graham crumbs and my friends ended up getting the Mango sorbet (HANDS DOWN THE BEST SORBET EVER), literally tastes like a frozen mango with the texture of velvet).
Just beyond that area I began to notice how immense the Brooklyn Bridge looked from below. The bridges construction begun with a man named John Roebling in the 1880's. The idea was to create an easier way to transport commuter and goods between Manhattan and Brooklyn. At the time steam powered ferries were being utilized, the bridge would further help commerce. It would also eventually allow people to move more freely, especially if they wanted to live outside of Brooklyn into Long Island. It officially opened to the public on May 25, 1883 making it one of the world's "greatest wonders" (BG,464). The last leg of our Brooklyn Tour was experiencing the spectacular view of the bridge as a pedestrian. As I walked over I definitely wished the weather was a little better... Tired and wet, I finally made it over the bridge feeling a sense of accomplishment.
Journal 4: A Tale of Three Villages
The West Village
TODAY WAS EXTRAORDINARILY TOO TOO HOT! If today was the day to show someone the full force of what New York summer is all about, TODAY was the day :(... but I digress, this is me not complaining but rather me reminiscing about my triumphant endurance through a tough strenuous day. I just hope the weather decides to RELAX and ease up for a bit, for it does not understand that I'm trying to enjoy my class time :)
As always we started punctually at 11:05 and made our way down the subway and took the 1 train to SoHo (SOuth of HOuston Street). The area was once the most densely populated part of new york filled with many factories, however, the area has been slowing going through a gentrification process. Remnants of the previous era still can be seen through its cast iron architecture, Belgian block pacing, and granite sidewalks (BG,98). Walking through SoHo can be a tedious venture if your not accustomed to the area, many of the streets on the south side don't follow the usual block street grid and can easily turn into a maze for tourists. As of today, Soho is considered to be one of the most exclusive places to live in because of its accessibility and rich culture of art galleries, culinary delights, and apartments.
Going forward, we made our way into Greenwich village (America's Bohemia). The area is a hub of artistic expression where famous novelists, musicians (Simon and Garfunkel) and avant-garde painters like Jackson Pollack (Abstract Expressionists) have developed their masterpieces. Greenwich has also been known for containing one of the countries largest gay communities "its long-standing tolerance, the Village had a large homosexual community for many years and has been a base for feminist and gay activist..." (BG, 129). We then walked down Bedford Street, a small quaint area filled with small connected family homes, cafe's and shop's- it was reminiscent of Brooklyn Heights. One of the homes we passed by was at 75 ½ Bedford Street, which Mike explained that it was once the home of Edna St. Vincent Millay, Carey Grant, and Margaret Meade. The home is considered to be the narrowest home in the city, only 9.5 feet wide and 30 feet deep. We then noted Isaac Hendricks’s house on 77 Bedford Street that was built in 1799, and the oldest home in the Village. The home was built as a farmhouse by Joshua Isaacs, however, as the years passed much of its original appearance has been preserved (BG, 141).
Going forward, we made our way into Greenwich village (America's Bohemia). The area is a hub of artistic expression where famous novelists, musicians (Simon and Garfunkel) and avant-garde painters like Jackson Pollack (Abstract Expressionists) have developed their masterpieces. Greenwich has also been known for containing one of the countries largest gay communities "its long-standing tolerance, the Village had a large homosexual community for many years and has been a base for feminist and gay activist..." (BG, 129). We then walked down Bedford Street, a small quaint area filled with small connected family homes, cafe's and shop's- it was reminiscent of Brooklyn Heights. One of the homes we passed by was at 75 ½ Bedford Street, which Mike explained that it was once the home of Edna St. Vincent Millay, Carey Grant, and Margaret Meade. The home is considered to be the narrowest home in the city, only 9.5 feet wide and 30 feet deep. We then noted Isaac Hendricks’s house on 77 Bedford Street that was built in 1799, and the oldest home in the Village. The home was built as a farmhouse by Joshua Isaacs, however, as the years passed much of its original appearance has been preserved (BG, 141).
Making our way through this whimsical little neighborhood, we made a left onto Christopher street and Mike began to tell us how the street used to be the "heart" of New York's gay and lesbian community." We then made a right onto Hudson where we stopped at the White Horse Tavern. The tavern was first opened in 1880 and quickly became a mecca for Village Bohemian Life, "The scene today is characterized less by sailors, workers and bohemian writers (like Dylan Thomas, a regular back in the 1950's) than by a mix of locals, NYU students and tourists, but the surroundings haven't changed much...". The place looked like a hip, down to earth bar and I definitely have to make my way through their in the near future! Further down the block we stopped by Stone Wall in, considered to be the birthplace of modern gay rights movement. In the 1960's there weren't many places for the Gay and Lesbian community to feel at rest, this place allowed them to have some sort of comfort with their blacked tinted that provided privacy. During this time period, it was illegal to serve Gay's alcohol or indulge in any same sex raunchy behavior. The police would conduct raids on the Inn, checking customers for identification and those dressing in drag- arresting those who didn't adhere to the law. A major day in history for the Stone Wall Inn occurred in July of 1969. Gay's and lesbian felt that enough was enough and decided not to cooperate with the law. Scuffle's broke out and many people were battered and arrested causing a upheaval. By the next morning, media brought this event into the attention of thousands creating an explosion of protestors and demonstrators. From that day forth, the gay liberation movement became known.
Right across the street from there we took a little break and stopped by Christopher park. The park contains a statue of General Philip Sheridan and more notably George Segal's Gay Liberation (1992). The statues depict two bronze same sex couples, painted in white.
The Heart of the Village
By this time of day, the sun was merciless and I was so happy that we were about to stop in New York University's Science and Art Gallery. After what seemed like five seconds of air conditioning the security guard unfortunately told us know that the space was closed, TOTAL BUMMER. We then decided to walk through Washington Square park where they were filming for the television series Elementary. The park is distinctly recognized by the Washington Arch, its sculptures, and the circular large fountain. The Arch itself was designed by Standford White and is modeled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris to commemorate George Washingon's 100th year anniversary of his inauguration into office (BG, 131). Before it was designed the area was covered in marshlands, once the park had been built, Robert Moses essentially wanted to carve a highway through the park to help decrease the incoming traffic in the area. In dismay, residents to Greenwich village such as Jane Jacobs struggled to keep the park opened and preserved for its intended purpose as public space. Her activism saved the park but did not save it from its decline in the 1970's where drugs and prostitution was on the rise. Currently, the park is under protection and is constantly tended to maintain and sustain its beauty.
We then continued walking toward McDougal Street where Mike showed us the first lesbian bar in the city. Further down we then passed by Café Wha where "Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, and Jimi Hendrix" all brought the house with their historic performances" (BG,137). Toward the end of the block we hit the intersection of McDougal and Bleeker street where we learned that the area used to be a center for prostitution, drugs and transvestite. Continuing onward, we then saw the Mills Jov no.1 building that housed unmarried working men (what also became a living area for gay men). The building allowed workers to seek out jobs and get back on their feet to provide themselves with a stable income. Damien then pointed out the Pecullier Pub that contained a variety of different unique beers from all over the world.
We then continued walking toward McDougal Street where Mike showed us the first lesbian bar in the city. Further down we then passed by Café Wha where "Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, and Jimi Hendrix" all brought the house with their historic performances" (BG,137). Toward the end of the block we hit the intersection of McDougal and Bleeker street where we learned that the area used to be a center for prostitution, drugs and transvestite. Continuing onward, we then saw the Mills Jov no.1 building that housed unmarried working men (what also became a living area for gay men). The building allowed workers to seek out jobs and get back on their feet to provide themselves with a stable income. Damien then pointed out the Pecullier Pub that contained a variety of different unique beers from all over the world.
The East Village
After a few more minutes of walking we finally made it to the Merchants Museum where we were scheduled for a guided tour. Once we were separated into two groups, we headed into the building. Though there wasn't any air conditioning, the building didn't retain as much heat as I thought it would- and it was actually cooler then it was outside (UNTIL you reached the third floor of the building that is). The tour guide we received was given by Emily who was especially enthusiastic and informed about the museum. She started us off in what seemed to me was the basement of the home. There we entered the family living are,here Emily discussed how the home was built in 1832 and occupied by the Tredwell family for almost 100 years. Because the house was owned by the Tredwell's for so long, Emily explained how the home became a living time capsule because the home was kept in the family. Most of the items, furniture and decorations never left the home therefore giving our generation some insight on how a home in the early 20th century might have looked like. Emily discussed how the house was actually first built by Joseph Brewster in "speculation." This meant that he constructed it so that it would be sold instead lived in by the Brewster's.
The first room Emily described to us was the Tredwell's family room the "basement" area. She explained to us that many of the furnishing we saw were the originals, except the carpet we were standing one which was a reproduction. Upon the many objects in the room, the sofa's stood out the most for me and was dated to be made in the early 1800's. By their fireplace, they had a warmer that held coals to warm their place before service. Emily noted that the warmer probably never moved because of the grooves the contraption had in the marble it was standing on. Across the room from the living area was the kitchen where there servants would prepare meals. Along the ceiling of the kitchen were different sized bells that each connected to a different room of the Tredwells. The servants would know which room to tend to depending on the distinct sound of bells. The bells also connected to the servants living quarters, allowing them to be beckoned during the evening hours. Since there wasn't any established sanitation at the time, rodents became a major problems. The Tredwells were also fortunate enough to have their own reservoir system buried in their backyard, anytime it would rain the water would collect in the tanks. A newly installed kitchen sink was recently added to the museum to provide what it may have looked like, the huge basin was carved through stone and had two sinks that would be multi-purposed for washing dishes or cloths.
Emily then continued to bring us upstairs into the parlor, she explained that its main function was to host a plethora of guest. The room was beautifully trimmed and elegantly designed with lavish furniture. What was pretty cool to see was the symmetry of the room, both rooms sides of the room were identical to each other down the mock door that was made just to maintain the uniformity. Between the rooms were doors that separated the room into two, which provided privacy for guests who passed by. Emily shed light on how woman used to socialize witch each other and how it became and ongoing and often annoying cycle. If a friend came to visit the home, the Tredwells would have to return the favor and go over to their house and vice versa. This would reoccur time and time again as it was once a social norm, even if it was for ten minute at a time. Among the variety of items in the room, the piano also was an important asset in the home. The Tredwell children were expected to learn how to play the piano, and on occasion to entertain their guest.
As we headed up the stairs once again we stopped by two bedrooms that was separated by two bathrooms. Emily mentioned that it was common to have husband and wife sleep in separate rooms in separate bed (an idea that makes no sense to me). In one room held two beds, one for the mother of the family and another for a child who may have got sick. In the middle of the room lay a huge circular metal basin that was used to bathe in. Essentially, people of that time would sit in the metal bowl and have the water poured on to them as it collected on the bottom of the vessel. More then often, the water they would be using would be cold because it was supposedly masculine and showed signs of strength. Despite how "up to date" the Tredwells were at the time, I still can't imagine living under those same conditions and norms. Across the hallway was the head of the family, Seabury Tredwells room. Emily then talked about common mourning practices for families during that time when a member passed away. She told us about how the family would go under a state of "mourning"; the family would cover anything that held a reflection with a black drape because they believed that if you saw your reflection after a recent death, you might be the next one to meet the grim reaper. Woman were considered to be "fragile" and were expected to greave for at least two years, clothed in all black. To make my goosebumps rise even more, Emily alerted us that the house was considered to be the most haunted house in New York City. With heat settling in and this little eerie fact in my head looming about, all I wanted to do was run out right then and there. Despite my sentiment we proceeded on trying to pull out all the enthusiasm I had left in me.
We soon then headed up two more flights up stairs passing the Tredwell's children quarters (presently used as offices for the museum) and up the servants quarter. Each room held two beds which were made of metal, so that bed bugs would consume the frame. The temperature on that floor was excruciating and all I could think about was how their servants would sleep during those hot merciless New York summers nights.
The first room Emily described to us was the Tredwell's family room the "basement" area. She explained to us that many of the furnishing we saw were the originals, except the carpet we were standing one which was a reproduction. Upon the many objects in the room, the sofa's stood out the most for me and was dated to be made in the early 1800's. By their fireplace, they had a warmer that held coals to warm their place before service. Emily noted that the warmer probably never moved because of the grooves the contraption had in the marble it was standing on. Across the room from the living area was the kitchen where there servants would prepare meals. Along the ceiling of the kitchen were different sized bells that each connected to a different room of the Tredwells. The servants would know which room to tend to depending on the distinct sound of bells. The bells also connected to the servants living quarters, allowing them to be beckoned during the evening hours. Since there wasn't any established sanitation at the time, rodents became a major problems. The Tredwells were also fortunate enough to have their own reservoir system buried in their backyard, anytime it would rain the water would collect in the tanks. A newly installed kitchen sink was recently added to the museum to provide what it may have looked like, the huge basin was carved through stone and had two sinks that would be multi-purposed for washing dishes or cloths.
Emily then continued to bring us upstairs into the parlor, she explained that its main function was to host a plethora of guest. The room was beautifully trimmed and elegantly designed with lavish furniture. What was pretty cool to see was the symmetry of the room, both rooms sides of the room were identical to each other down the mock door that was made just to maintain the uniformity. Between the rooms were doors that separated the room into two, which provided privacy for guests who passed by. Emily shed light on how woman used to socialize witch each other and how it became and ongoing and often annoying cycle. If a friend came to visit the home, the Tredwells would have to return the favor and go over to their house and vice versa. This would reoccur time and time again as it was once a social norm, even if it was for ten minute at a time. Among the variety of items in the room, the piano also was an important asset in the home. The Tredwell children were expected to learn how to play the piano, and on occasion to entertain their guest.
As we headed up the stairs once again we stopped by two bedrooms that was separated by two bathrooms. Emily mentioned that it was common to have husband and wife sleep in separate rooms in separate bed (an idea that makes no sense to me). In one room held two beds, one for the mother of the family and another for a child who may have got sick. In the middle of the room lay a huge circular metal basin that was used to bathe in. Essentially, people of that time would sit in the metal bowl and have the water poured on to them as it collected on the bottom of the vessel. More then often, the water they would be using would be cold because it was supposedly masculine and showed signs of strength. Despite how "up to date" the Tredwells were at the time, I still can't imagine living under those same conditions and norms. Across the hallway was the head of the family, Seabury Tredwells room. Emily then talked about common mourning practices for families during that time when a member passed away. She told us about how the family would go under a state of "mourning"; the family would cover anything that held a reflection with a black drape because they believed that if you saw your reflection after a recent death, you might be the next one to meet the grim reaper. Woman were considered to be "fragile" and were expected to greave for at least two years, clothed in all black. To make my goosebumps rise even more, Emily alerted us that the house was considered to be the most haunted house in New York City. With heat settling in and this little eerie fact in my head looming about, all I wanted to do was run out right then and there. Despite my sentiment we proceeded on trying to pull out all the enthusiasm I had left in me.
We soon then headed up two more flights up stairs passing the Tredwell's children quarters (presently used as offices for the museum) and up the servants quarter. Each room held two beds which were made of metal, so that bed bugs would consume the frame. The temperature on that floor was excruciating and all I could think about was how their servants would sleep during those hot merciless New York summers nights.
Continuing our tour of the villages, we made out way over to the Cooper Union Building where Abraham Lincoln once gave a speech. The building became a school of higher education which was once tuition free to students. Its mission expressed founder Peter Coopers fundamental idea that education should be accessible to all despite race, religion, sex, or wealth or social status. He believed that the right to knowledge should be open and free to all who seek it, however due to the lack of funds students to gain entry have to pay tuition.
We finally got a chance to get a load off and relaxed in St. Marks, where I had Chipotle for lunch. After eating that baby sized monstrosity of a burrito they serve I slowly began to slip into a coma while enjoying the much needed air conditioning. Whew.
Soon after we were back on route before I knew it. Before leaving St. Marks we passed by The Bowery Church which Mike told us held the remains of Peter Stuyvsaent. He also explained that it was erected by the Stuyvesant family in 1660 and then sold it to the Episcopal Church. We then made it to my favorite part of the day which was visiting the Big Gay Ice Cream Shop. I had the renowned "Salty Pimp" which had vanilla ice cream, dulce de leche, sea salt and chocolate dip. The soft served ice cream was definitely the topper to this exceptionally hot summer day,
We finally got a chance to get a load off and relaxed in St. Marks, where I had Chipotle for lunch. After eating that baby sized monstrosity of a burrito they serve I slowly began to slip into a coma while enjoying the much needed air conditioning. Whew.
Soon after we were back on route before I knew it. Before leaving St. Marks we passed by The Bowery Church which Mike told us held the remains of Peter Stuyvsaent. He also explained that it was erected by the Stuyvesant family in 1660 and then sold it to the Episcopal Church. We then made it to my favorite part of the day which was visiting the Big Gay Ice Cream Shop. I had the renowned "Salty Pimp" which had vanilla ice cream, dulce de leche, sea salt and chocolate dip. The soft served ice cream was definitely the topper to this exceptionally hot summer day,
We then finally made it to out last destination for the day, The Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space. When we got there, the Museum looked like it was close but fortunately there was a young lady that opened up the gates and called our tour guide. The museum is run by volunteers and is located on the ground floor of a tenement C-squat. The museum commemorates the radical history of the East Village where it celebrates social activism and documents the Tompkins Square Park riot along with the battle for the community gardens. Through our tour with Bill we learned the lower east side during the 1970's was extremely poor, and because of that the neighborhood deteriorated. Areas in the South Bronx also suffered the same accounts. Due to the decline of the area many apartments and businesses were purposely burned down to try to get insurance companies to pay for the "accident", others were left alone to rot. By the late 1980's the economy started to change. The city started to reclaim abandoned buildings and began to evict squaters. If the squaters refused, the police would come down and use force to get them out. The police would even go as far as to bring tanks down to threaten the activists.
The race to reclaim space and make it into community centers or gardens was important for the area to keep public space open for the general public. Rather then having it sold to condominiums/apartment complexes activist believed that the open space demonstrated the success of community reclamation. Simultaneously it also taught the community about gardening and composting. Bill explained one of the park signs which was Green thumb protected, created in 1977 after the destruction of a tenement building. We then walked across the street to the second garden where we were lucky enough to find someone with a key to let us in. The gate that surrounded the garden had unique sculptures that dueled as "barb wire" to prevent outsiders and vandals from entering during off hours. The unusual pieces were all fashioned from repurposing old cans and other fragments of metal. As we walked further into the garden I noticed all the edible plants available, and the huge watering canisters they had to hold/save water from the runoff from the roof of a small seating area. I thought that it was a pretty clever idea because their system prevented any bugs from reproducing in the water/any pollutants from tarnishing the water. It also provided free water to nourish the plants in the surrounding area.
As we left the garden I was extremely relieved to know that the day was finally over, but also excited to see what was to come for Friday's class.
The race to reclaim space and make it into community centers or gardens was important for the area to keep public space open for the general public. Rather then having it sold to condominiums/apartment complexes activist believed that the open space demonstrated the success of community reclamation. Simultaneously it also taught the community about gardening and composting. Bill explained one of the park signs which was Green thumb protected, created in 1977 after the destruction of a tenement building. We then walked across the street to the second garden where we were lucky enough to find someone with a key to let us in. The gate that surrounded the garden had unique sculptures that dueled as "barb wire" to prevent outsiders and vandals from entering during off hours. The unusual pieces were all fashioned from repurposing old cans and other fragments of metal. As we walked further into the garden I noticed all the edible plants available, and the huge watering canisters they had to hold/save water from the runoff from the roof of a small seating area. I thought that it was a pretty clever idea because their system prevented any bugs from reproducing in the water/any pollutants from tarnishing the water. It also provided free water to nourish the plants in the surrounding area.
As we left the garden I was extremely relieved to know that the day was finally over, but also excited to see what was to come for Friday's class.