Journal 1
~ Impressions of New York ~
Although I was born and raised in Forest Hills, Queens. I have not experienced the city as much as I wish I could have done. As a child till this day I enjoyed living in Queens better than Long Island. New York has a reputation for rude people but from my experience I felt the city is more accepting than Long Island. You don't need a specific style or be a specific race to fit in. Plus, there is something to do in the city everyday!!!
A few things I love about the city is the culture of countless ethnic groups, the bright lights that makes the city beautiful and also we get to see many lives that are living on the streets which has a story of life decisions, bad luck and mostly it shows how many people lost their jobs in recent years. (which I was very lucky enough to experience by participating in Mid-Night Run by Campus Ministries - if you haven't done it please do, it's an experience that you will never forget!!!) Also, I love how you can shop whatever you want. There is a place to shop for everyone in the city. From the cheapest places to the most expensive. I know the city is crowded and all but I enjoyed living there mostly because you never ever need a car to get from point A to point B. All you need is a metro card and some good shoes and your good to go.
As a typical New Yorker, I have not visited many land marks such as the 9/11 memorial, Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty and Empire state, but have seen from far away. Every year I do make the effort to go see the Rockefeller Christmas tree and to roam around the city to watch the beauty of the city as the holidays get closer. I have been lucky enough to march for St. Patrick's day as part of Molloy College. I enjoyed it very much the two years I attended. Also, part of club trio I was able to go to bodies exhibit which by near south street seaport and enjoy the beautiful view also we made a visit to the trump building and central park where there was a dance performance. It's so amazing to see talented people perform in streets, subways and parks. I was able to go to a Broadway show part of a class in high school, it was something I will never forget and I can't wait to go for another show whenever I can. I was also able to go to the MET museum for Renaissance Art class, which I enjoyed very much. I also went to see amazing the famous Macy's fireworks which was incredible.
The city is still developing in many ways in different areas. I visit Long Island city many times from childhood till now because my uncle runs a pizzeria. The development that has happened there is incredible from my childhood till this day.
I'm looking forward for the class to start to learn and see the hidden historic treasures where I would never be able to experience alone. I'm sure not only I will gain so much from this class but also enjoy every moment of this class!!!
A few things I love about the city is the culture of countless ethnic groups, the bright lights that makes the city beautiful and also we get to see many lives that are living on the streets which has a story of life decisions, bad luck and mostly it shows how many people lost their jobs in recent years. (which I was very lucky enough to experience by participating in Mid-Night Run by Campus Ministries - if you haven't done it please do, it's an experience that you will never forget!!!) Also, I love how you can shop whatever you want. There is a place to shop for everyone in the city. From the cheapest places to the most expensive. I know the city is crowded and all but I enjoyed living there mostly because you never ever need a car to get from point A to point B. All you need is a metro card and some good shoes and your good to go.
As a typical New Yorker, I have not visited many land marks such as the 9/11 memorial, Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty and Empire state, but have seen from far away. Every year I do make the effort to go see the Rockefeller Christmas tree and to roam around the city to watch the beauty of the city as the holidays get closer. I have been lucky enough to march for St. Patrick's day as part of Molloy College. I enjoyed it very much the two years I attended. Also, part of club trio I was able to go to bodies exhibit which by near south street seaport and enjoy the beautiful view also we made a visit to the trump building and central park where there was a dance performance. It's so amazing to see talented people perform in streets, subways and parks. I was able to go to a Broadway show part of a class in high school, it was something I will never forget and I can't wait to go for another show whenever I can. I was also able to go to the MET museum for Renaissance Art class, which I enjoyed very much. I also went to see amazing the famous Macy's fireworks which was incredible.
The city is still developing in many ways in different areas. I visit Long Island city many times from childhood till now because my uncle runs a pizzeria. The development that has happened there is incredible from my childhood till this day.
I'm looking forward for the class to start to learn and see the hidden historic treasures where I would never be able to experience alone. I'm sure not only I will gain so much from this class but also enjoy every moment of this class!!!
~ Quixotic Queens ~
Today was our first class, which I was thrilled about. Even though I grew up in Queens, I haven't seen most of these places.
First we all met in Penn Station then we walked over to Bryant park which was a very relaxing beautiful place to just sit and enjoy. We all sat down and talked about our class and a had a brief history about Bryant park it was interesting to hear the same park years ago was not a safe place for the public to go and relax to its amazing transformation today. The fountain there was beautiful. Then we headed to see the Chrysler building which was known as the tallest building in New York from 1930 to 1930. It was built by Walter P. Chrysler to show the luxury of automobile. It is still one of the most famous art deco style building. (BG pg 231)
After that we headed to the New York Public Library. It looks so beautiful inside and outside. As the architect outside was Greek style structure which just makes every building so beautiful and elegant to look at. I loved how they had two lions in front. "The marble lions were created by Edward C. Potter in 1911. "Originally criticized as mealy-mouthed, complacent creatures, they see,med undeserving of the nicknames Mayor Fiorello La Guardia would later give them - Patience(south side) and Fortitude(north side) - virtues the mayor thought important for New Yorkers struggling economically during the depression." (BG pg 208) Inside the library there was so many pieces of art which were very beautiful. The ceilings had very detail art work.
Off to another historic site which I was looking forward to see, which was the Grand Central Terminal. Just by standing outside and looking to the historical art work, was the most beautiful building I ever saw in the city! The detail of the sculpture was fantastic. I wish the city had recreated some buildings with beautiful designs as the terminal. I learned the difference between a terminal and station. Terminal is usually the end point and stations continue traveling. Grand Central Terminal was celebrating it's 100th anniversary this year. The ceilings were restored 10 years ago. In the 1940's, almost 40% of Americans travelers had passed through Grand Central Terminal. In the celebration of 100 years the windows were marked 100. From the blue guide I was able to learn in 1978 the Supreme Court protected the building from being destroyed and stated as an historic building. (BG pg 228-230)
Next stop was the famous Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. It is an art deco land mark and still is the city's finest hotel. (BG 235) I have passed this building before multiple times but never had the opportunity to be inside the building. It was incredibly gorgeous, I took a few pictures of a formal place setting and they had some historic pieces. The art work inside the hotel was also detailed and beautiful. I loved the very detailed art sculpture that was inside and lady liberty being on top.
Roosevelt Island was our next destination. It was my first time getting in a tram which was opened in 1971. I'm not going to lie, I was a little terrified to get inside it. But by the end of Roosevelt Island, I definitely decided to go back one day with family and friends to show the hidden historical treasure and of course experience the tram ride! Roosevelt Island was speechless. The most amazing views of both sides (Queens and Manhattan) it was so relaxing. Well, Roosevelt Island was the land of the American Indians, which was later taken over by the Dutch. As a nursing student I was very excited to see one of the first nursing schools in the nation which was the Smallpox Hospital which was created by James Renrick. It was opened in 1856 while there was a plaque of smallpox patients. The hospital is now a piece of history with beautiful gothic architecture. One of the first pathology laboratory was also located in Roosevelt Island which was the Strecker Memorial Laboratory which was created in 1892. The Lunatic Asylum was a place for all the mental illness people and for criminals. This was recreated as a hospital and the prisoners were moved to Riker's Island. Our final stop was a fairly new park known as Four Freedoms Park, which was dedicated to Franklin D. Roosevelt. It has a beautiful view and the lawn with the trees that make a cone is an awesome place to take pictures! The view was amazing. The builder of the park was Louis Kahn and it was his last piece of architect work before his passing. After that we headed for our Indian lunch in Jackson Heights. Jackson Heights is known as little India. Growing up I visited this place often to get traditional Indian clothes to food. Most of my classmates took the brave move to try it and some didn't.
Museum of Moving Images in Astoria. The museum was opened in the 1920's but later on was taken over by US Army to make short films. Later on Kaufman took over in 1988, so this year is the 25th Anniversary! Many movie shots were taken in this location. Inside the museum it was very exciting. Was incredible to see how detailed some things were created such as the foot created for the movie "The Black Swan" and some of the building textures. It was great to see the history of cameras and mostly to see the great transformation of how televisions look from the past to the present moment. I was fascinated the most with the movie "The Mask" with Jim Carrey, as a child I watched it over and over with my cousin which even ended in him buying a jack- russell terrier. So it was great to see the actual mask and the sculpture that was created for the movie.
First we all met in Penn Station then we walked over to Bryant park which was a very relaxing beautiful place to just sit and enjoy. We all sat down and talked about our class and a had a brief history about Bryant park it was interesting to hear the same park years ago was not a safe place for the public to go and relax to its amazing transformation today. The fountain there was beautiful. Then we headed to see the Chrysler building which was known as the tallest building in New York from 1930 to 1930. It was built by Walter P. Chrysler to show the luxury of automobile. It is still one of the most famous art deco style building. (BG pg 231)
After that we headed to the New York Public Library. It looks so beautiful inside and outside. As the architect outside was Greek style structure which just makes every building so beautiful and elegant to look at. I loved how they had two lions in front. "The marble lions were created by Edward C. Potter in 1911. "Originally criticized as mealy-mouthed, complacent creatures, they see,med undeserving of the nicknames Mayor Fiorello La Guardia would later give them - Patience(south side) and Fortitude(north side) - virtues the mayor thought important for New Yorkers struggling economically during the depression." (BG pg 208) Inside the library there was so many pieces of art which were very beautiful. The ceilings had very detail art work.
Off to another historic site which I was looking forward to see, which was the Grand Central Terminal. Just by standing outside and looking to the historical art work, was the most beautiful building I ever saw in the city! The detail of the sculpture was fantastic. I wish the city had recreated some buildings with beautiful designs as the terminal. I learned the difference between a terminal and station. Terminal is usually the end point and stations continue traveling. Grand Central Terminal was celebrating it's 100th anniversary this year. The ceilings were restored 10 years ago. In the 1940's, almost 40% of Americans travelers had passed through Grand Central Terminal. In the celebration of 100 years the windows were marked 100. From the blue guide I was able to learn in 1978 the Supreme Court protected the building from being destroyed and stated as an historic building. (BG pg 228-230)
Next stop was the famous Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. It is an art deco land mark and still is the city's finest hotel. (BG 235) I have passed this building before multiple times but never had the opportunity to be inside the building. It was incredibly gorgeous, I took a few pictures of a formal place setting and they had some historic pieces. The art work inside the hotel was also detailed and beautiful. I loved the very detailed art sculpture that was inside and lady liberty being on top.
Roosevelt Island was our next destination. It was my first time getting in a tram which was opened in 1971. I'm not going to lie, I was a little terrified to get inside it. But by the end of Roosevelt Island, I definitely decided to go back one day with family and friends to show the hidden historical treasure and of course experience the tram ride! Roosevelt Island was speechless. The most amazing views of both sides (Queens and Manhattan) it was so relaxing. Well, Roosevelt Island was the land of the American Indians, which was later taken over by the Dutch. As a nursing student I was very excited to see one of the first nursing schools in the nation which was the Smallpox Hospital which was created by James Renrick. It was opened in 1856 while there was a plaque of smallpox patients. The hospital is now a piece of history with beautiful gothic architecture. One of the first pathology laboratory was also located in Roosevelt Island which was the Strecker Memorial Laboratory which was created in 1892. The Lunatic Asylum was a place for all the mental illness people and for criminals. This was recreated as a hospital and the prisoners were moved to Riker's Island. Our final stop was a fairly new park known as Four Freedoms Park, which was dedicated to Franklin D. Roosevelt. It has a beautiful view and the lawn with the trees that make a cone is an awesome place to take pictures! The view was amazing. The builder of the park was Louis Kahn and it was his last piece of architect work before his passing. After that we headed for our Indian lunch in Jackson Heights. Jackson Heights is known as little India. Growing up I visited this place often to get traditional Indian clothes to food. Most of my classmates took the brave move to try it and some didn't.
Museum of Moving Images in Astoria. The museum was opened in the 1920's but later on was taken over by US Army to make short films. Later on Kaufman took over in 1988, so this year is the 25th Anniversary! Many movie shots were taken in this location. Inside the museum it was very exciting. Was incredible to see how detailed some things were created such as the foot created for the movie "The Black Swan" and some of the building textures. It was great to see the history of cameras and mostly to see the great transformation of how televisions look from the past to the present moment. I was fascinated the most with the movie "The Mask" with Jim Carrey, as a child I watched it over and over with my cousin which even ended in him buying a jack- russell terrier. So it was great to see the actual mask and the sculpture that was created for the movie.
Next stop was Long Island City. The biggest gentrification is happened and still happening in Long Island City. Our first stop was at P.S 1, which has been turned into part of MoMA. We were unable to get inside to see the art work which I was a little upset since I was looking forward to it, but I plan to go on my own to see it. It was great to see the first public school in New York City. I never knew the numbers meant which school came next, I always wondered why my elementary school was PS 175 and here in Long Island its mostly based on what street the school is located. The next stop was 5pointz. I've always been a big fan of the beautiful amazing graffiti work which is known as 5 pointz. My cousin always passed by this place as we travel to his store. It's very fascinating how people can make a plain wall into something so beautiful. I was upset to find out this building will be demolished as part of gentrification. I really hope they come up with a new place to continue to display this.
Our final stop was to see the Pepsi - Cola sign!!!! I've seen this sign so many times as driving and always I wondered where this sign was. I was excited to see it! the water front view was incredible. We were able to see the view of Manhattan and before we were able to see the view of Queens. We headed to Gantry Plaza State Park, it was very relaxing to just stand by the water also we were able to see how grains were transported back in the day from the port.
Overall experience today was amazing. Although I was extremely tired from the walk, I was so happy to see these wonderful places. I was a little bummed that we couldn't get inside PS 1 MOMA or to Flushing Meadows- Corona Park but we went to so many other places which made it very exciting. Also we were the lucky group to see Grand Central Terminal celebrating 100 years and Museum of Moving Arts celebrating 25 years but the biggest lucky group who was able to see the graffiti work in 5pointz, which may not exist by the end of this year. I can't wait for our next class to see Coney Island and mostly to cross the Brooklyn Bridge!!!!
*** Here is a slide- show below of the pictures of the day....... Enjoy!***
Our final stop was to see the Pepsi - Cola sign!!!! I've seen this sign so many times as driving and always I wondered where this sign was. I was excited to see it! the water front view was incredible. We were able to see the view of Manhattan and before we were able to see the view of Queens. We headed to Gantry Plaza State Park, it was very relaxing to just stand by the water also we were able to see how grains were transported back in the day from the port.
Overall experience today was amazing. Although I was extremely tired from the walk, I was so happy to see these wonderful places. I was a little bummed that we couldn't get inside PS 1 MOMA or to Flushing Meadows- Corona Park but we went to so many other places which made it very exciting. Also we were the lucky group to see Grand Central Terminal celebrating 100 years and Museum of Moving Arts celebrating 25 years but the biggest lucky group who was able to see the graffiti work in 5pointz, which may not exist by the end of this year. I can't wait for our next class to see Coney Island and mostly to cross the Brooklyn Bridge!!!!
*** Here is a slide- show below of the pictures of the day....... Enjoy!***
~ Bodacious Brooklyn ~
Today Friday the 13th! After a rough morning, finally Saher and I reached Penn Station at 11:05! First let's talk about the borough we went to. Brooklyn was settled by the Dutch thus the name was formed. The name Brooklyn means "Broken Land" (Breuckelen) which was formed in the 17th century. (BG 461) Brooklyn occupies the western tip of Long Island and bounded by the East River, the Narrows, the Upper New York bay on the west and north by the Atlantic Ocean by the south and the Borough of Queens on the east. (BG 461) Brooklyn was its own city until 1898 then the five boroughs had formed, but it is still the second largest county in the nation. Brooklyn is also under gentrification process but some of the flavors, cultures has not changed. Brooklyn is also known as the borough of Churches. Now lets talk about our day from Penn Station we all headed to the wonderful famous Coney Island. We expected a long 45 minute trip but due to all the wonderful transit problems our train ride went into many still stops and we finally reached our destination after close to 2 hours. That was the longest subway ride most of us took but hey this class is all about experience, how can it be complete without some wonderful delays and sudden stops inside tunnels and random areas! Since I was a kid I've always heard about but never been there, so I was excited to go there and see this home of the Cyclone and the famous Nathan's! Coney Island was also named by the dutch and they named it as "konijin Eiland" after the rabbits they found there. (BG 492) Coney Island is not an island. In 1920s to 1930s Coney Island was the most famous area for people to come and relax. By 1940's Coney Island saw a decline due to all the constructions that happened by Robert Moses. Coney Island had a huge Italian population and many authentic Italian restaurants which still remains there. The famous Nathan's is the iconic hot dog stand founded in 1916. (BG 492) It was a nice relaxing area to spend but I wish the rides were open because I wanted to get on some of those rides. It was also great to see the hall of fame of hot dog competition which was pretty amazing since I do watch the Fourth of July competition. Now Coney Island is been changing and every year its been in decline. The future for this historic place is still in doubt. Now there are plans to develop built high end hotels and high end apartments.
Our next stop was the New York Transit Museum. Was an amazing experience to learn the birth of our wonderful subway system! The first subways were developed in London in 1863. 1827 Omni bus was the way of transportation. Omni bus was not an actual bus but it was a horse carriages. It carried people from one place to another. By late 1800's there was too much horse poop and people were thinking to create a different way of transportation. 1860's trains that were powered by steam which only ran 12 miles per hour. This came to an end when New York City had the worst blizzard on 1888 which had 50 inches of snow and many people who were in the train got stuck over 24 hours. After the incident, lines were put down to create our subways. The upper side stations were shallow and the lower side were very deep stations. The subway systems underground were built by men called sandhogs. The pressure was twice as more than the environment. They were put in lock chambers for 17 minutes and were only allowed to work for 2-3 hours. The lower side of Manhattan is the most populated for businesses, shipping and the most shop offering area so a train system helped the people to travel. The transit museum was started in 1976, it was suppose to be 2 months exhibition of the historic parts of train but due to the population it became a permanent museum. The workers who built the system were not treated well, the workers got paid very low also they were not allowed to get paid on sick days or were not allowed to get any days off. The world's biggest transit system were formed on October 27, 1904. I've uploaded some pictures below of all the fun I had. I became a bus operator to the train operator! The most fascinating part of the trip was definitely seeing the changes made, and it was a walk through the memory lane. I actually remembered the old train how it was but mostly my favorite memories was the tokens! As a child I always asked my dad how can they know if the token is real or the token is a toy? now we got the answer....there were many slugs! It's so amazing to see how much things have changed the interior had more comfortable seats and fans because there were no air condition, we were allowed to change carts while the train was running. It has made some wonderful changes. I really enjoyed this trip would like to take my cousins who I traveled with to take a walk in the past.
Off to the next stop.....Brooklyn Borough Hall formerly known as the Brooklyn city hall. It had the name change on 1898 when it became part of the five boroughs. The building was a neo-classical architect. Then off we went to Brooklyn Heights where many brownstone buildings were made. This was the home to many upper middle class. Montague street which was previously known as the bank row had beautiful buildings with different types of architectures.
We stopped at Brooklyn Bridge which was assembled by John A. Roebling. He was unable to see the creation of his amazing imagination due to an accident with the ferry which injured his foot and he ended up with tetanus and later on passed away, but the dreams were continued by his son which also got paralyzed so it got continued by his wife Emily. The bridge was opened on May 25, 1883 and it was considered one of the world's greatest wonders. (BG 464) It was once the largest bridge and still is the oldest suspension bridge. Before the bridge's arrival people had to take the ferry to cross the east river. I always wanted to cross the Brooklyn bridge but never got the opportunity to. So it was very very exciting to cross the bridge, walk on the famous and beautiful bridge. The scenery from the top was incredible. I was able to see lady liberty from a far distance and was able to the the freedom tower. I would love to do that once more!
The day was ended but I decided to visit South Street Seaport. The last time I went there I enjoyed it so much so I was excited to go but upon arriving it was a very sad scene. The area was devastated because of the hurricane Sandy. Most businesses were closed. Hopefully in 2 years they will bring it back into the lively environment.
This week the class was fun, I was able to see Coney Island, walk on the Brooklyn Bridge, got to see the freedom towers, the lady liberty in distance and of course mostly learn about some important landmarks. Also, I found the way to get to NY Aquarium.
I cant wait for the next class to visit the villages!
***Enjoy the pictures below from the day! ***
Our next stop was the New York Transit Museum. Was an amazing experience to learn the birth of our wonderful subway system! The first subways were developed in London in 1863. 1827 Omni bus was the way of transportation. Omni bus was not an actual bus but it was a horse carriages. It carried people from one place to another. By late 1800's there was too much horse poop and people were thinking to create a different way of transportation. 1860's trains that were powered by steam which only ran 12 miles per hour. This came to an end when New York City had the worst blizzard on 1888 which had 50 inches of snow and many people who were in the train got stuck over 24 hours. After the incident, lines were put down to create our subways. The upper side stations were shallow and the lower side were very deep stations. The subway systems underground were built by men called sandhogs. The pressure was twice as more than the environment. They were put in lock chambers for 17 minutes and were only allowed to work for 2-3 hours. The lower side of Manhattan is the most populated for businesses, shipping and the most shop offering area so a train system helped the people to travel. The transit museum was started in 1976, it was suppose to be 2 months exhibition of the historic parts of train but due to the population it became a permanent museum. The workers who built the system were not treated well, the workers got paid very low also they were not allowed to get paid on sick days or were not allowed to get any days off. The world's biggest transit system were formed on October 27, 1904. I've uploaded some pictures below of all the fun I had. I became a bus operator to the train operator! The most fascinating part of the trip was definitely seeing the changes made, and it was a walk through the memory lane. I actually remembered the old train how it was but mostly my favorite memories was the tokens! As a child I always asked my dad how can they know if the token is real or the token is a toy? now we got the answer....there were many slugs! It's so amazing to see how much things have changed the interior had more comfortable seats and fans because there were no air condition, we were allowed to change carts while the train was running. It has made some wonderful changes. I really enjoyed this trip would like to take my cousins who I traveled with to take a walk in the past.
Off to the next stop.....Brooklyn Borough Hall formerly known as the Brooklyn city hall. It had the name change on 1898 when it became part of the five boroughs. The building was a neo-classical architect. Then off we went to Brooklyn Heights where many brownstone buildings were made. This was the home to many upper middle class. Montague street which was previously known as the bank row had beautiful buildings with different types of architectures.
We stopped at Brooklyn Bridge which was assembled by John A. Roebling. He was unable to see the creation of his amazing imagination due to an accident with the ferry which injured his foot and he ended up with tetanus and later on passed away, but the dreams were continued by his son which also got paralyzed so it got continued by his wife Emily. The bridge was opened on May 25, 1883 and it was considered one of the world's greatest wonders. (BG 464) It was once the largest bridge and still is the oldest suspension bridge. Before the bridge's arrival people had to take the ferry to cross the east river. I always wanted to cross the Brooklyn bridge but never got the opportunity to. So it was very very exciting to cross the bridge, walk on the famous and beautiful bridge. The scenery from the top was incredible. I was able to see lady liberty from a far distance and was able to the the freedom tower. I would love to do that once more!
The day was ended but I decided to visit South Street Seaport. The last time I went there I enjoyed it so much so I was excited to go but upon arriving it was a very sad scene. The area was devastated because of the hurricane Sandy. Most businesses were closed. Hopefully in 2 years they will bring it back into the lively environment.
This week the class was fun, I was able to see Coney Island, walk on the Brooklyn Bridge, got to see the freedom towers, the lady liberty in distance and of course mostly learn about some important landmarks. Also, I found the way to get to NY Aquarium.
I cant wait for the next class to visit the villages!
***Enjoy the pictures below from the day! ***
~ A Tale of Three Villages ~
Off from Penn Station we all hopped on to the train, off to the beautiful famous Villages! SOHO, West Village and East Village where many things took place and many famous places...... Our first stop was......How do we pronounce "Houston street" so listen everyone New York-er's don't call it the Texas way....it's house-tin and we pronounce it the accurate way....(once I pronounced the NY way while in TX, let's just say it wasn't a good idea)
We started in West Village....which were taking over by the Dutch from the Native Indians and from the Dutch by the British. One uniqueness from every other place is the West Village does not have any number streets, all the streets have names. Broadway is the street that contains both the east side and west side. Our stop was at 75 1/2 Bedford Street, it is a house only 9 and half ft wide, distinguished both as the narrowest house in the Village and a residence of Edna St. Vincent Millay. ( BG 141) Edna St. Vincent Millay was a poet and she had won the Pulitzer Price in 1923. It was sold in August 2013 for 3.4 million dollars. Next stop was White House Tavern which was known as shoreman's bar in 1880 since it was only 2 miles from the Hudson river. Many famous writers and poets have been here. Dylan Thomas on November 3rd 1953, had 18 straight whiskies and the next day he fell into a coma and died on November 9th. ( BG 143)
Our next stop was Christopher Street. Christopher Street has a huge history. It has the largest gay community. Dutch times they had a small population of gay people but if anyone was caught they would have been drowned. Next stop was to Christopher park The park used to be a tobacco farm. The park contains George Segal's Gay Liberation (1992) two same- sex couple, all four cast in bronze and painted stark white. (BG 130) We all walked then to the famous historic iconic site the Stonewall Inn the bar was owned by MOBs and they used to pay the police to avoid any arrests or raids due to the population was meant for gay and lesbians. On June 28 1969, a group of visitors in the stonewall were arrested which created a huge riot. The riot was known as the Stonewell Riots in which people became violent with police and bottles were thrown. This day was a big historic movement for the gay community. Usually the Gay pride parade ends in the Stonewall Inn.
One of the oldest building was the Northern Dispensary which is a triangular building. It's built in a federal style which means it has long windows. This was a hospital for the poor New Yorkers. People had free health care. Edgar Allen Poe was the famous poet who had been treated here. Gay Street had many federal housings.
Next stop was Merchant's House which was build in 1832 was built and owned by the upper end family. During those times many house owners were Merchants. Seabury Tredwell had moved into the house in 1835 with his wife and 7 children and had 4 servants. This house is considered to be a historic landmark inside and outside due to all the things that have been unchanged. The first floor consisted of a family room and kitchen. The family room was just o read and rest but it was not used to entertain guests. Every room had a fire place because they did not have any electric or heating or water supply. Water was collected through rain for washing and bathing. They had a servant on call 24 hours in the day. Each room had a bell that connected to the kitchen which the servants had to respond to. The drinking water was provided from the city well. In 1832 the city face a cholera epidemic which lead to a water system creation by 1842. The second floor contained two parlors which the guest spent. They were entertained in that room. Oregon lights were used to lit up the room when guests were presented. Back in the day they did not bathe often. For the baths the servants had to bring up water from the first floor to each room. The servant had a room in the attic it was very simple and small compared to the other room and I wondered how the temperature would be for them during the extreme weather conditions. The attic room did not have any carpet on the floors either.
The next stop was Washington Square park. was built in 1827. New York University built it's first building by the park in 1837 in a gothic style. In 1960s many folk singers would perform by the fountains. (BG 131) By 1970 the park was known for drug dealings and by 1990's a clean up was performed. The entrance shows the sculpture of Washington in war on the left and Washington at peace in the right.
Our next and final stop was a guided tour at The Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space. In 1980s the neighborhood was changed and this was documented. During the 1960s the Lower East side was considered a bad neighborhood and many of the public services such as the fire departments, sanitations police departments and schools were cut from this neighborhood. This are became known for the people who were not able to afford to move. By 1980s things were improved by the community. Many parks were formed with the Green Thumb program which is how a community coming together to fix a rubbled place into something beautiful such a building a garden and play ground are for the community to spend time in. This was done with volunteers and run by the local residents. They throw entertainment such as small plays and built vegetable garden and also what was amazing was they created their own compost for the organic vegetables the community created. The willow tree in the park was considered part of the culture. 2001 many of the parks were brought into the homestead program.
After the long tour we stopped at The Big Gay Ice Cream shop and some of us had some Salty pimp ice cream! Then off we parted to our own ways. Saher and I waited for Saher's sister and we roamed around the area, we got to experience a little Italian festival (I dont know the name of the festival that went on) that was going on right around the corner. Also we stopped for dinner at Vive la crepe! which was amazing! We did some shopping and slowly left the beautiful city as the life began.
We started in West Village....which were taking over by the Dutch from the Native Indians and from the Dutch by the British. One uniqueness from every other place is the West Village does not have any number streets, all the streets have names. Broadway is the street that contains both the east side and west side. Our stop was at 75 1/2 Bedford Street, it is a house only 9 and half ft wide, distinguished both as the narrowest house in the Village and a residence of Edna St. Vincent Millay. ( BG 141) Edna St. Vincent Millay was a poet and she had won the Pulitzer Price in 1923. It was sold in August 2013 for 3.4 million dollars. Next stop was White House Tavern which was known as shoreman's bar in 1880 since it was only 2 miles from the Hudson river. Many famous writers and poets have been here. Dylan Thomas on November 3rd 1953, had 18 straight whiskies and the next day he fell into a coma and died on November 9th. ( BG 143)
Our next stop was Christopher Street. Christopher Street has a huge history. It has the largest gay community. Dutch times they had a small population of gay people but if anyone was caught they would have been drowned. Next stop was to Christopher park The park used to be a tobacco farm. The park contains George Segal's Gay Liberation (1992) two same- sex couple, all four cast in bronze and painted stark white. (BG 130) We all walked then to the famous historic iconic site the Stonewall Inn the bar was owned by MOBs and they used to pay the police to avoid any arrests or raids due to the population was meant for gay and lesbians. On June 28 1969, a group of visitors in the stonewall were arrested which created a huge riot. The riot was known as the Stonewell Riots in which people became violent with police and bottles were thrown. This day was a big historic movement for the gay community. Usually the Gay pride parade ends in the Stonewall Inn.
One of the oldest building was the Northern Dispensary which is a triangular building. It's built in a federal style which means it has long windows. This was a hospital for the poor New Yorkers. People had free health care. Edgar Allen Poe was the famous poet who had been treated here. Gay Street had many federal housings.
Next stop was Merchant's House which was build in 1832 was built and owned by the upper end family. During those times many house owners were Merchants. Seabury Tredwell had moved into the house in 1835 with his wife and 7 children and had 4 servants. This house is considered to be a historic landmark inside and outside due to all the things that have been unchanged. The first floor consisted of a family room and kitchen. The family room was just o read and rest but it was not used to entertain guests. Every room had a fire place because they did not have any electric or heating or water supply. Water was collected through rain for washing and bathing. They had a servant on call 24 hours in the day. Each room had a bell that connected to the kitchen which the servants had to respond to. The drinking water was provided from the city well. In 1832 the city face a cholera epidemic which lead to a water system creation by 1842. The second floor contained two parlors which the guest spent. They were entertained in that room. Oregon lights were used to lit up the room when guests were presented. Back in the day they did not bathe often. For the baths the servants had to bring up water from the first floor to each room. The servant had a room in the attic it was very simple and small compared to the other room and I wondered how the temperature would be for them during the extreme weather conditions. The attic room did not have any carpet on the floors either.
The next stop was Washington Square park. was built in 1827. New York University built it's first building by the park in 1837 in a gothic style. In 1960s many folk singers would perform by the fountains. (BG 131) By 1970 the park was known for drug dealings and by 1990's a clean up was performed. The entrance shows the sculpture of Washington in war on the left and Washington at peace in the right.
Our next and final stop was a guided tour at The Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space. In 1980s the neighborhood was changed and this was documented. During the 1960s the Lower East side was considered a bad neighborhood and many of the public services such as the fire departments, sanitations police departments and schools were cut from this neighborhood. This are became known for the people who were not able to afford to move. By 1980s things were improved by the community. Many parks were formed with the Green Thumb program which is how a community coming together to fix a rubbled place into something beautiful such a building a garden and play ground are for the community to spend time in. This was done with volunteers and run by the local residents. They throw entertainment such as small plays and built vegetable garden and also what was amazing was they created their own compost for the organic vegetables the community created. The willow tree in the park was considered part of the culture. 2001 many of the parks were brought into the homestead program.
After the long tour we stopped at The Big Gay Ice Cream shop and some of us had some Salty pimp ice cream! Then off we parted to our own ways. Saher and I waited for Saher's sister and we roamed around the area, we got to experience a little Italian festival (I dont know the name of the festival that went on) that was going on right around the corner. Also we stopped for dinner at Vive la crepe! which was amazing! We did some shopping and slowly left the beautiful city as the life began.
~ East of the Park ~
Our day has started at our wonderful usual spot....Penn Station! and off we all left to another day of exploring......We took the 1 train transferred to S train then again we transferred to 4 train and our final transfer was to the 6 train and we reached our destination 103th street and Lexington...to East Harlem which is known as El Barrio. As most areas of New York City this area is also going through much of gentrification. The fertile soil and the strategic advantages of the Harlem plain attracted Dutch farmers, who in 1658 founded Nieuw Haarlem, ten miles north of New Amsterdam at the tip of Manhattan. (BG 437) The population in 1880's were mostly consisted of Germans and Italians. By 1960's the population changed into mostly Puerto Rican's. By 1970's the city fell into a very abandoned place where paying rent was difficult and many people would put fire their own homes to get insurance money. (BG 438) During those times crimes were on the rise, by 1990's the community also blended with many Caribbean natives. Many middle class had moved in and many houses were renovated into brown stone.
Our first official stop was at the Museum of the City of New York which offers exhibitions that explains the city's history from the Dutch to the present. It was founded in 1923. We were able to read about many historical activist that had went on. In all those I saw the most eye catching for me was the "I am a Working Girl" - "Upheaval In the Garment Trades from 1900 to 1915." It had caught my eye due to a paper I had done long time ago about the Triangle Fire. This activism was about how unsafe the working environment was for many people especially after what had happened while a fire spread in a garment industry which had killed more than 100 people due to the exit doors being locked. Most people at that time did not have unions or any rights for workers. Frances Perkins was the women who was part of the investigation of the triangle fire so she was one of the most important person to get involved in this wonderful labor unions. She was also the first women to serve in the cabinet post of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Another particular event that had caught my eye was the destruction of Penn Station, It had so many wonderful
sculptures and statues as the Grand Central Terminal. It was a shame that people had destroyed the beauty of it. We watched a 25 minute that was created by James Sander and Jake Barton, which explained the history to the present moment of the beautiful city. Henry Hudson had traveled and he found a lot of land which he bought for the current rate of 24 dollars. In 1664 the British had taken over. South Street was one of the biggest port in America which scheduled regular goods. This was expanded towards the Mid- West by creating the Erie Canal. By 1840's it was the biggest industrial areas around the world. The most amazing thing I was able to view in the museum was the most creative amazing doll house which is known as Stettheimer Doll house. It was just beautiful and very detailed.
Our next stop was El Museo del barrio which means the museum of the neighborhood. It was started in 1969 it was created of the children in the community which were mostly Puerto Rican or Lationo descent to learn about their culture, artists and poets. In 1930's the Heickscher building was an orphanage which later on became this wonderful museum. In the front of the museum there is a saying "A Museum is a school, the artist learns to communicate. The public learns to make connection." This is what the museum is about, most artists shows their culture and beliefs through the artwork and people will be able to make a connection with their culture. There was a graffiti art work that was located inside an basketball court of an elementary school which was founded by Ray Rodriguez. This specific area a person gets to show off their art work for one year. No one is able to vandalize the art work. Every year a new group of people creates an art. We were able to see one of the oldest Puerto Rican church which initially were the Italians church, it had beautiful art work. Another famous artist was Julia de Burgos who had died in the neighborhood by a lung infection. In her memory a street was named after her also there is many posters of her picture around the neighborhood. The most important art work in her memory was a mosaic created by Manuel Vega as known as Manny Vega. The primary art consists from artist's from the neighborhood. One of the most famous artist from the neighborhood is Manny Vega. He was a self taught artist. All his art work contains a bow and an arrow. He usually posts sketches for one year before making it into a permanent mosaic piece, this is to get approval and suggestions from the neighborhood. His work is inspired from Brazil. He lived most of his life in el Barrio. Our next stop was at a community garden which was dedicated for the women of the community. The statue which is represented in the garden was a sculpture of Fallopian tubes. Another painting was created in the wall to show the women as poet's and painter's also to show a women is not only for art work but also the bullets around the chest represents they would fight and protect. The painting was created by Yasmin which we were very lucky to meet. The painting had symbols from the culture which consisted of fertility, peace etc. Our last stop in the neighborhood was seeing a painting which was created in 1970's. It was a painting of the people who were living in the neighborhood. Also we all learned Salsa music is something that was created in New York not else where. After that we visit the famous Gusto! He is someone who has seen many changes in the neighborhood also he owned a botanico which is a herbal store. He has cures for many illnesses and evil spirits! It was nice to talk to him and most amazing was how many different type of things that were stored inside the stores. It smelled wonderful. After all the tour we all finally went to have some ethnic yummy Latino food which was just great!
Our next was Central Park......lets just say it was a very very long walk...times it was so beautiful but when we lost some scenery it did get a little boring. Central Park is one huge park 843 acres of land with so many different scenery. In 1844 a poet William Cullen Bryant and other poets were calling for a public park, observing that commerce was devouring great chunks of Manhattan and the population sweeping over the rest. (BG 280) Socially the park was intended for the relief of working people, whose daily lives were often confined to tenements and sweatshops, as well as for the amusement of the wealth to show off their clothing, carriages and horses. About 25 million people visitthe park each year. The not-for-profit Central Park Conservancy, founded in 1980, now maintains the park under contract with the city. (BG 281) We started in the Conservatory park which was founded by Olmsted. (He built a park in Buffalo!) The gate of the entrance of the park was from the Vanderbilt Mansion. So we all started to walk and admire the beauty of nature. We passed by a beautiful garden which held many different types of incredible flowers. It was a nice area to sit and relax and enjoy the beautiful weather with the beautiful scene. I have to say even if I whined and complained most part I did enjoy seeing so many different parts of the park, also hearing the history. We first saw Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir which holds water just for 2 weeks for the entire city if we run out of water or if the water gets contaminated. The park consist of different areas. It contains a zoo, carousel, boat riding, playgrounds etc. Many weddings and photo shoots for weddings happen in the park, we were able to see 4 couples just being their for a short time. It was so nice to see it. While walking we crossed bridge number 24. Central park has 36 bridges in total with many different architectural designs. Our next stop was by a very beautiful fountain with a statue, I was walking slower than a snail so I couldn't hear the discussion about it so the amazing book had information. It is called the Bethesda Fountain and its statue is known as Angel of the Waters which was created in 1868 by Emma Stebbins, it was one of the few works especially commissioned for the park. It depicts the biblical angel who stirred the waters of the Bethesda pool in Jerusalem, conferring healing powers on it. (BG 290). If I knew this before while being there i would of tried my luck by putting a lucky penny for the magical healing power! ( I am not sure if the penny would work) Emma Stebbins the creator of this magnificent sculpture is one of the most important women sculptor also she is the only women who had a sculpture in Central Park. The next stop was to view the Dakota Apartments from Central Park. This apartment building is important due to the legend John Lennon had once lived there. Strawberry Park was created in honor of him. He was a songwriter and singer also the member of the well known band Beatles. The name Strawberry park came from the song "Strawberry Fields Forever" one of Lennon's famous songs which was inspired by an orphanage in his hometown. Another memorable tribute for the legend was a mosaic piece of artwork that says imagine which was also the title of one his hit songs. He was shot in front of his apartment by one his fans.
The next stop was the the Plaza......! we went in through one door and out the next door....it was very elegant and beautiful......
Our next stop was the all time favorite store......Fao Schwarz! its a heaven inside there...I love any toy store! What i enjoyed the most was the big piano and how about the little baby nursery...it was very cute to see little girls holding the little doll baby especially when they are expecting a little sibling...The animal world also is one of my favorite....as a child I remember my uncle taking me there and getting me a doll that talked and also getting me a stuffed teddy bear for both my cousin and I. I can't say how excited we both were to get toys! From childhood itself my love and passion for animals were on the rise so I had many stuff toys but now when I look the toys are so much realistic looking these days...I guess I shall return to the store once I have a job...Saher and I were so caught up on getting her beautiful little girl a toy that we got out a little late and of course we lost the group but knowing we were going to Tiffany's we both walked...but we didn't see anyone.......Tiffany's is also another heaven...but the difference can be FAO schwarz wishes may come true more quicker than the wonderful Tiffany's.......I did admire some of the jewelry that I passed by.... We made our final attempt finding our group at St. Patricks Cathedral, it is one beautiful gothic architectural designed church. It looks beautiful inside and outside. It is a Roman Catholic church. The video on the website of restoration is pretty nice to watch. A prayer never hurts the soul but brings peace. I went inside to say a prayer and we ended our long day and headed.....back home!
Our first official stop was at the Museum of the City of New York which offers exhibitions that explains the city's history from the Dutch to the present. It was founded in 1923. We were able to read about many historical activist that had went on. In all those I saw the most eye catching for me was the "I am a Working Girl" - "Upheaval In the Garment Trades from 1900 to 1915." It had caught my eye due to a paper I had done long time ago about the Triangle Fire. This activism was about how unsafe the working environment was for many people especially after what had happened while a fire spread in a garment industry which had killed more than 100 people due to the exit doors being locked. Most people at that time did not have unions or any rights for workers. Frances Perkins was the women who was part of the investigation of the triangle fire so she was one of the most important person to get involved in this wonderful labor unions. She was also the first women to serve in the cabinet post of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Another particular event that had caught my eye was the destruction of Penn Station, It had so many wonderful
sculptures and statues as the Grand Central Terminal. It was a shame that people had destroyed the beauty of it. We watched a 25 minute that was created by James Sander and Jake Barton, which explained the history to the present moment of the beautiful city. Henry Hudson had traveled and he found a lot of land which he bought for the current rate of 24 dollars. In 1664 the British had taken over. South Street was one of the biggest port in America which scheduled regular goods. This was expanded towards the Mid- West by creating the Erie Canal. By 1840's it was the biggest industrial areas around the world. The most amazing thing I was able to view in the museum was the most creative amazing doll house which is known as Stettheimer Doll house. It was just beautiful and very detailed.
Our next stop was El Museo del barrio which means the museum of the neighborhood. It was started in 1969 it was created of the children in the community which were mostly Puerto Rican or Lationo descent to learn about their culture, artists and poets. In 1930's the Heickscher building was an orphanage which later on became this wonderful museum. In the front of the museum there is a saying "A Museum is a school, the artist learns to communicate. The public learns to make connection." This is what the museum is about, most artists shows their culture and beliefs through the artwork and people will be able to make a connection with their culture. There was a graffiti art work that was located inside an basketball court of an elementary school which was founded by Ray Rodriguez. This specific area a person gets to show off their art work for one year. No one is able to vandalize the art work. Every year a new group of people creates an art. We were able to see one of the oldest Puerto Rican church which initially were the Italians church, it had beautiful art work. Another famous artist was Julia de Burgos who had died in the neighborhood by a lung infection. In her memory a street was named after her also there is many posters of her picture around the neighborhood. The most important art work in her memory was a mosaic created by Manuel Vega as known as Manny Vega. The primary art consists from artist's from the neighborhood. One of the most famous artist from the neighborhood is Manny Vega. He was a self taught artist. All his art work contains a bow and an arrow. He usually posts sketches for one year before making it into a permanent mosaic piece, this is to get approval and suggestions from the neighborhood. His work is inspired from Brazil. He lived most of his life in el Barrio. Our next stop was at a community garden which was dedicated for the women of the community. The statue which is represented in the garden was a sculpture of Fallopian tubes. Another painting was created in the wall to show the women as poet's and painter's also to show a women is not only for art work but also the bullets around the chest represents they would fight and protect. The painting was created by Yasmin which we were very lucky to meet. The painting had symbols from the culture which consisted of fertility, peace etc. Our last stop in the neighborhood was seeing a painting which was created in 1970's. It was a painting of the people who were living in the neighborhood. Also we all learned Salsa music is something that was created in New York not else where. After that we visit the famous Gusto! He is someone who has seen many changes in the neighborhood also he owned a botanico which is a herbal store. He has cures for many illnesses and evil spirits! It was nice to talk to him and most amazing was how many different type of things that were stored inside the stores. It smelled wonderful. After all the tour we all finally went to have some ethnic yummy Latino food which was just great!
Our next was Central Park......lets just say it was a very very long walk...times it was so beautiful but when we lost some scenery it did get a little boring. Central Park is one huge park 843 acres of land with so many different scenery. In 1844 a poet William Cullen Bryant and other poets were calling for a public park, observing that commerce was devouring great chunks of Manhattan and the population sweeping over the rest. (BG 280) Socially the park was intended for the relief of working people, whose daily lives were often confined to tenements and sweatshops, as well as for the amusement of the wealth to show off their clothing, carriages and horses. About 25 million people visitthe park each year. The not-for-profit Central Park Conservancy, founded in 1980, now maintains the park under contract with the city. (BG 281) We started in the Conservatory park which was founded by Olmsted. (He built a park in Buffalo!) The gate of the entrance of the park was from the Vanderbilt Mansion. So we all started to walk and admire the beauty of nature. We passed by a beautiful garden which held many different types of incredible flowers. It was a nice area to sit and relax and enjoy the beautiful weather with the beautiful scene. I have to say even if I whined and complained most part I did enjoy seeing so many different parts of the park, also hearing the history. We first saw Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir which holds water just for 2 weeks for the entire city if we run out of water or if the water gets contaminated. The park consist of different areas. It contains a zoo, carousel, boat riding, playgrounds etc. Many weddings and photo shoots for weddings happen in the park, we were able to see 4 couples just being their for a short time. It was so nice to see it. While walking we crossed bridge number 24. Central park has 36 bridges in total with many different architectural designs. Our next stop was by a very beautiful fountain with a statue, I was walking slower than a snail so I couldn't hear the discussion about it so the amazing book had information. It is called the Bethesda Fountain and its statue is known as Angel of the Waters which was created in 1868 by Emma Stebbins, it was one of the few works especially commissioned for the park. It depicts the biblical angel who stirred the waters of the Bethesda pool in Jerusalem, conferring healing powers on it. (BG 290). If I knew this before while being there i would of tried my luck by putting a lucky penny for the magical healing power! ( I am not sure if the penny would work) Emma Stebbins the creator of this magnificent sculpture is one of the most important women sculptor also she is the only women who had a sculpture in Central Park. The next stop was to view the Dakota Apartments from Central Park. This apartment building is important due to the legend John Lennon had once lived there. Strawberry Park was created in honor of him. He was a songwriter and singer also the member of the well known band Beatles. The name Strawberry park came from the song "Strawberry Fields Forever" one of Lennon's famous songs which was inspired by an orphanage in his hometown. Another memorable tribute for the legend was a mosaic piece of artwork that says imagine which was also the title of one his hit songs. He was shot in front of his apartment by one his fans.
The next stop was the the Plaza......! we went in through one door and out the next door....it was very elegant and beautiful......
Our next stop was the all time favorite store......Fao Schwarz! its a heaven inside there...I love any toy store! What i enjoyed the most was the big piano and how about the little baby nursery...it was very cute to see little girls holding the little doll baby especially when they are expecting a little sibling...The animal world also is one of my favorite....as a child I remember my uncle taking me there and getting me a doll that talked and also getting me a stuffed teddy bear for both my cousin and I. I can't say how excited we both were to get toys! From childhood itself my love and passion for animals were on the rise so I had many stuff toys but now when I look the toys are so much realistic looking these days...I guess I shall return to the store once I have a job...Saher and I were so caught up on getting her beautiful little girl a toy that we got out a little late and of course we lost the group but knowing we were going to Tiffany's we both walked...but we didn't see anyone.......Tiffany's is also another heaven...but the difference can be FAO schwarz wishes may come true more quicker than the wonderful Tiffany's.......I did admire some of the jewelry that I passed by.... We made our final attempt finding our group at St. Patricks Cathedral, it is one beautiful gothic architectural designed church. It looks beautiful inside and outside. It is a Roman Catholic church. The video on the website of restoration is pretty nice to watch. A prayer never hurts the soul but brings peace. I went inside to say a prayer and we ended our long day and headed.....back home!