JOURNALS 1-4
Above I attached quick youtube video of what I think summs up perfectly of what I first viewed New York to be... This clip is from the movie "elf" and buddy visits New York for the first time and experiences what New York is "really" like.
1)Impressions of New York
I have lived on Long Island my whole life but have never truly explored "The Big Apple" or as people call it the "greatest city in the world". New York in my eyes is a place of creativity whether it is expressed in the graffiti and street art on sidewalks, sky scrapers and street signs, or the way people dress or even in the funky flavorful food coming out of a slinky food truck. New York is a place of art. Although by art I do not necessarily mean "beauty" or something easy on the eye. New York definitely is not all that beautiful but that is why people love it, it is not perfect! With congested streets, heavy traffic, constant noise, smelly streets, and the continuous fast pace it could be very much the opposite of beautiful but as most people say with beauty comes pain.
I am looking forward to exploring all of the beauty in "the city that never sleeps". I can not wait to try different foods, break my neck looking at sky scrapers and adventuring through what I like to call it "The Concrete Jungle". I hope to take lots of awesome pictures, meet people as cool as me, and most importantly learn and captivate the real culture of New York.
2) The QUEEN Of Hearts.
We started our first day walking around the biggest borough of New York, the "Queen of Hearts". We all met in Penn Station at the ticket booth and then proceeded on our journey. We had taken the subway to the 7 train also nicknamed the “International Express”. Our first stop was flushing meadow park where citi field and of course the U.S open are located! All of us had sat on bench facing the tennis courts as we listened to Michael and Meritta talk about the historical, recreational and environmental significance of the park. During this time we had learned that Flushing meadows Corana park was the forming dumping grounds labelled a "valley of ashes" by F. Scott Fitzgerald in "The Great Gatsby". The site, recognized at the time as the Corona Ash Dumps, was being filled with ashes from coal-burning furnaces, as well as with horse manure and garbage and was cleaned up by Parks Commissioner Robert Moses in preparation for the 1939-1940 World's Fair(ENY, P.217). With having to dispose of the mountains of ashes, Moses intentionally incorporated a considerable portion of the remainings into the bases of the Van Wyck Expressway running along the eastern side of the park, the nearby Interboro Parkway (now Jackie Robinson Parkway), and the Long Island Expressway that divides the park into north and south halves (ENY, p.213).
What is the world fair?
The 1964/1965 New York World's Fair was the third major world fair to be held in New York City. Presenting itself as a "Universal and International" exposition, the fair's theme was "Peace Through Understanding", devoted to "Man's Achievement on a Shrinking Globe in an Expanding Universe". The theme was symbolized by a 12-story high, stainless-steel model of the earth called the unishphere (ENY, p.218). The class and I had walked around the waterfall unisphere as we were all enjoying the back lash of water we were getting from the structure in the joyus heat.
Next stop was The Queens Museum of Art….
At this museum we had learned about “Bringing the World into the World” meaning exploring the physical and intellectual experiences through the act of seeing. With said we spent most of the time in this museum viewing and talking about the largest structure and work of art known as the Panorama of the city of New York. This is a 9.335 square foot scale model of the city built by the master builder and creator himself, Robert Moses (ENY, p.221). We had learned that he had built this model specifically for the Worlds Fair in 1964-1965. Our tour guide had told us the Panorama was built to a scale of 1 inch to100 feet and includes every building in New York constructed before 1992, which is very precise to say the least. Still to this day the panorama remains the largest and most inclusive model of an urban environment.
Next stop Roosevelt Avenue, Jackson Heights…
Walking off the subway we stroll into what is known as New Yorks “Little India”. With the heat and exhaustion we had to stop and get some Indian cuisine at the Jackson Diner. The Jackson Diner was completely buffet style as we all grabbed our plates for seconds and thirds. They had all different types of meats including goat, which happy to say I even tried and it was fun to see other people in the class try it as well! The food was delicious to say the least and well needed.
Next stop Astoria…
Back on the subway we go as we make our entrance into Astoria. Here we learned about the tons of different cultures in the area and how it is one of the most diverse sections in queens. We then make our way to the Museum of the Moving Image where we learned about the history and art of movie making. It was fascinating to see how much goes on behind the scenes for example just the time alone it takes to pick the right music for just one scene in a movie. The museum also had a lot of fun hands on activities, which made it even more of a blast!
Last stop Long Island City...
We then march our way over to Long Island City where we discuss the gentrification process that is going on in the area. Not only is it becoming new and upcoming but it also has become the most concentrated area containing art galleries, art institutions and studio spaces of any neighborhood in New York City (ENY, p.225). After our little lesson on gentrification we try to make our way into the MoMA ps1 but for some reason it was not the right time and we were not able to get in. From there we continued our journey towards the East River and we come across the breathtaking waterfront back dropped with the city skyline. Viewing the city skyline with the sun glaring in our faces we discussed the different types of styles of architecture. As a class we went over that the Chrysler building style was art deco, which is characterized by rich colors, abstract geometric shapes and flashy ornamentation. We then made our way over to the infamous Pepsi Cola sign as everyone flashed pictures underneath it. After, we then walked further along the river to the Gantry Plaza State Park. The view was even more incredible and I was completely taken away. I learned that the park is named after the 19th century railroad gantries that were used to transfer cargo from ships to train to be transported throughout Long Island (hence the wooden structures still remaining) (ENY p.226). The view from the park was really too beautiful as I gazed across the river at the Empire State building, United Nations building and Roosevelt Island,it was the perfect way to end a great day!
1)Impressions of New York
I have lived on Long Island my whole life but have never truly explored "The Big Apple" or as people call it the "greatest city in the world". New York in my eyes is a place of creativity whether it is expressed in the graffiti and street art on sidewalks, sky scrapers and street signs, or the way people dress or even in the funky flavorful food coming out of a slinky food truck. New York is a place of art. Although by art I do not necessarily mean "beauty" or something easy on the eye. New York definitely is not all that beautiful but that is why people love it, it is not perfect! With congested streets, heavy traffic, constant noise, smelly streets, and the continuous fast pace it could be very much the opposite of beautiful but as most people say with beauty comes pain.
I am looking forward to exploring all of the beauty in "the city that never sleeps". I can not wait to try different foods, break my neck looking at sky scrapers and adventuring through what I like to call it "The Concrete Jungle". I hope to take lots of awesome pictures, meet people as cool as me, and most importantly learn and captivate the real culture of New York.
2) The QUEEN Of Hearts.
We started our first day walking around the biggest borough of New York, the "Queen of Hearts". We all met in Penn Station at the ticket booth and then proceeded on our journey. We had taken the subway to the 7 train also nicknamed the “International Express”. Our first stop was flushing meadow park where citi field and of course the U.S open are located! All of us had sat on bench facing the tennis courts as we listened to Michael and Meritta talk about the historical, recreational and environmental significance of the park. During this time we had learned that Flushing meadows Corana park was the forming dumping grounds labelled a "valley of ashes" by F. Scott Fitzgerald in "The Great Gatsby". The site, recognized at the time as the Corona Ash Dumps, was being filled with ashes from coal-burning furnaces, as well as with horse manure and garbage and was cleaned up by Parks Commissioner Robert Moses in preparation for the 1939-1940 World's Fair(ENY, P.217). With having to dispose of the mountains of ashes, Moses intentionally incorporated a considerable portion of the remainings into the bases of the Van Wyck Expressway running along the eastern side of the park, the nearby Interboro Parkway (now Jackie Robinson Parkway), and the Long Island Expressway that divides the park into north and south halves (ENY, p.213).
What is the world fair?
The 1964/1965 New York World's Fair was the third major world fair to be held in New York City. Presenting itself as a "Universal and International" exposition, the fair's theme was "Peace Through Understanding", devoted to "Man's Achievement on a Shrinking Globe in an Expanding Universe". The theme was symbolized by a 12-story high, stainless-steel model of the earth called the unishphere (ENY, p.218). The class and I had walked around the waterfall unisphere as we were all enjoying the back lash of water we were getting from the structure in the joyus heat.
Next stop was The Queens Museum of Art….
At this museum we had learned about “Bringing the World into the World” meaning exploring the physical and intellectual experiences through the act of seeing. With said we spent most of the time in this museum viewing and talking about the largest structure and work of art known as the Panorama of the city of New York. This is a 9.335 square foot scale model of the city built by the master builder and creator himself, Robert Moses (ENY, p.221). We had learned that he had built this model specifically for the Worlds Fair in 1964-1965. Our tour guide had told us the Panorama was built to a scale of 1 inch to100 feet and includes every building in New York constructed before 1992, which is very precise to say the least. Still to this day the panorama remains the largest and most inclusive model of an urban environment.
Next stop Roosevelt Avenue, Jackson Heights…
Walking off the subway we stroll into what is known as New Yorks “Little India”. With the heat and exhaustion we had to stop and get some Indian cuisine at the Jackson Diner. The Jackson Diner was completely buffet style as we all grabbed our plates for seconds and thirds. They had all different types of meats including goat, which happy to say I even tried and it was fun to see other people in the class try it as well! The food was delicious to say the least and well needed.
Next stop Astoria…
Back on the subway we go as we make our entrance into Astoria. Here we learned about the tons of different cultures in the area and how it is one of the most diverse sections in queens. We then make our way to the Museum of the Moving Image where we learned about the history and art of movie making. It was fascinating to see how much goes on behind the scenes for example just the time alone it takes to pick the right music for just one scene in a movie. The museum also had a lot of fun hands on activities, which made it even more of a blast!
Last stop Long Island City...
We then march our way over to Long Island City where we discuss the gentrification process that is going on in the area. Not only is it becoming new and upcoming but it also has become the most concentrated area containing art galleries, art institutions and studio spaces of any neighborhood in New York City (ENY, p.225). After our little lesson on gentrification we try to make our way into the MoMA ps1 but for some reason it was not the right time and we were not able to get in. From there we continued our journey towards the East River and we come across the breathtaking waterfront back dropped with the city skyline. Viewing the city skyline with the sun glaring in our faces we discussed the different types of styles of architecture. As a class we went over that the Chrysler building style was art deco, which is characterized by rich colors, abstract geometric shapes and flashy ornamentation. We then made our way over to the infamous Pepsi Cola sign as everyone flashed pictures underneath it. After, we then walked further along the river to the Gantry Plaza State Park. The view was even more incredible and I was completely taken away. I learned that the park is named after the 19th century railroad gantries that were used to transfer cargo from ships to train to be transported throughout Long Island (hence the wooden structures still remaining) (ENY p.226). The view from the park was really too beautiful as I gazed across the river at the Empire State building, United Nations building and Roosevelt Island,it was the perfect way to end a great day!
2. Where BROOKLYN at?!
I was super excited for this weeks Brooklyn adventure. I have been to Brooklyn several times before but only have really explored Williamsburg, green-point and bushwick so I was looking forward to seeing the other beautiful parts of Brooklyn. To start off the day we had met up in our usual meeting spot in Penn station right by the ticket booth. Mike and Meritta explained are agenda for the day and we all just got even more anxious to start our journey.
Our first exploration was to Coney Island ,to get there we hopped on the F train for about an hour. After finally getting off the long train ride the whole class and I jumped for joy as we saw the beautiful waterfront , the busy boardwalk and all the huge roller coasters. But before going anywhere we had gotten a quick lesson on the history behind Coney Island. We had learned that Coney Island also referred to as King County after Kings Charles 11 has become one of the major tourist destination after the Civil War. By the 1920’s Coney island became New Yorks most important amusement area and now has become home of thrilling rides, creep shows, and of course mermaid parades. Also being that Coney Island is right by the waterfront, the area is now becoming gentrified with hotels and high rises for the rich and upper class. With that being said there has been a constant battle between the locals in the Coney Island community to keep the funky weird vibe that Coney Island has been recognized for (ENy, p194). After our quick lesson we were given an hour to roam around and do whatever had pleased us. Britney and I decided to go straight for the boardwalk to the amusement park. With limited time we had jumped on one of Coney Islands newest roller coasters “the thunderbold”. Following our adrenal rush we had then went for a little treat at the one and only Nathans Famous. We each got a hot dog and fries and could not have been any happier feeling like little kids all over again.
Next stop… Brooklyn Heights
Following our first fun adventure of the day we then made waves to Brooklyn Heights. Here we saw a lot of beautiful architect and certainly some of the most stunning situated homes I have ever seen. Considering that Brooklyn Heights architect is so worthy “ the neighborhood was one of the first in the city to be protected by New York’s 1965 Landmarks Preservation Law” ( 201). Walking around and breaking our necks to look and admire the beauty that these building had we made our way to the Transit Musuem. As we were walking down the stairs, I had thought we were entering another subway station to get to our next location but little did I know Michael had explained to us that we were actually walking into an incredible museum. When we got down to the museum we were assigned a lovely tour guide who educated the class and I on how the subway system came to exist. She explained to us that before trains came to exist that New York City streets were flooded with trash and manure, at the time when horses were the only source of public transportation. We learned that before trains came to exist, New York City streets were flooded with trash and manure (when horses were the only source of public transportation). It was not until 1888, the government came to intervene and created the department of sanitation as well as a lower subway system. The first subway was not complete until 1904, and this guided the development of areas all across Manhattan as opposed to the majority of the population living in one overly populated area where disease traveled rapidly. With said New York City would not be the same without mass transit. After learning about the design and the building of the subway systems we then parted our way to view the second half of the museum. This was my favorite part of the museum because we actually got to see and go on the collection of antique subways cars that they had on their lower level. All of the original trains had fun ads above each seat along with funky colors and woven wicker striped seats. I really loved the brightness and youthfulness of the old subway cars and I would actually prefer subway cars how they used to be verses now! Although it was very cool to see how New York subway cars have evolved over time.
After our tour we then reach the Plymouth Church said to be the most significant sites in Brooklyn Heights. We enter the courtyard and discussed the history of the church and how Henry Ward Beecher, a famous abolitionist, preached here from 1849-188. Beecher was so famous that on Sundays, they created special boats known as “Beecher Boats” so that people of Manhattan were able to hear his preaching’s (206). Still today, his statue still stands tall in front of the church as if he was preaching to the people.
After long strides of walking several blocks we reach the Brooklyn Bridge Park at last! Here we had a great view of the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Willamburg bridge(s). This park-looked picture perfect as this area was surrounded by a beautiful waterfront and of course the city skyline. There were tons of tourists eating ice cream, laughing and playing and several brides and grooms because who wouldn’t want to get married in such a beautiful location!
A few steps later we arrived at Dumbo, a portion of the park which got its name because of its location "down under the Manhattan Bridge overpass" as Merritta had told us. This area was once recognized for manufacturing and was bordered with factories in the 1890s producing paper boxes machinery and brillow soap pads. Later on this district had grown into an area where artists came to seek for inexpensive loft spaces (ENY, 207). Today, a lot of the factories still remain standing, though gentrification is changing much of that and now this area has become the highest concentration of technology firms in New York (booooo). After our little history lesson we then walk to Jane's Carousel, which was originally used in a theme park in Ohio but was terribly damaged by a fire (ENY, p. 207). In 1984 the carousel was bought by jane Walentas and her husband, who was on the the main real estate developers in Dumbo. They spent 20 years repairing “ all 48 of the carousels wooden horses” (ENY, p.208). Surrounding the carousel are these elegant glass walls and ceilings, which represent a jewelry box that is worth millions. At this location we spent a great amount of time enjoying the nice breeze, people watching and listening to an awesome funky hipster band (who I fell in love with). Also, Britney and I of course had to ride the carousel as we both laughed and smiled on our horses looking over at the remarkable views.
Next stop Brooklyn Bridge..
On our way over to the Brooklyn Bridge we had made a quick pit stop to fuel our systems with some ice cream at Jacquess Torree. Although I did not get any ice cream it looked very delicious and I heard from former classmates that it was very tastey. While everyone was eating their ice cream Michael and I were busy taking “grungy” and “tough” photos in front of the graffiti that was done on the building ahead of the ice cream shop. I tried to look as “bad ass” as possible but Michael was not pleased with my smiling face haha so I got another classmate to model in my place.
Finally we made it the Brooklyn Bridge after what seemed like forever, don’t get me wrong it was worth the every minute of walking. But before actually walking across we had another quick history lesson on the bridge. One of the many fun facts we learned about this bridge was that it was built by a woman, recognized as Emily Roebling (this was my favorite fact of them all). We also learned the bridge is the oldest suspension bridge in the United States and for a while “was also recognized as the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere” (ENY, p.208). And before the bridge was even built, ferries were used to get from Brooklyn to Manhattan, however, during time of inclement weather, ferries were not able to operate. Therefore building the bridge over the East River to connect Manhattan and Brooklyn would make for an easer safer commute. Also it would unify New York greatly. After learning about some brief history we began our 1.1 mile walk across the bridge enjoying the most breathtaking views. It was the most ideal timing as the sun was setting beautifully and the temperature had started to cool down. Although my phone had died at this point of the journey and I could not flash any pictures I will always have the memories of this moment in my mind.
After our long day of exploring Michael, Brittney, Marielle, Bobby and I had taken a little trip to St.Mark. There we grabbed some warm ramen noodle and split a few yummy appetizers . We had all indulged on our huge bowls of ramen as we shared our favorite experiences of the day along with favorite spots to visit in the city. The day could have not ended any better, as I was more than content with good food and company!
I was super excited for this weeks Brooklyn adventure. I have been to Brooklyn several times before but only have really explored Williamsburg, green-point and bushwick so I was looking forward to seeing the other beautiful parts of Brooklyn. To start off the day we had met up in our usual meeting spot in Penn station right by the ticket booth. Mike and Meritta explained are agenda for the day and we all just got even more anxious to start our journey.
Our first exploration was to Coney Island ,to get there we hopped on the F train for about an hour. After finally getting off the long train ride the whole class and I jumped for joy as we saw the beautiful waterfront , the busy boardwalk and all the huge roller coasters. But before going anywhere we had gotten a quick lesson on the history behind Coney Island. We had learned that Coney Island also referred to as King County after Kings Charles 11 has become one of the major tourist destination after the Civil War. By the 1920’s Coney island became New Yorks most important amusement area and now has become home of thrilling rides, creep shows, and of course mermaid parades. Also being that Coney Island is right by the waterfront, the area is now becoming gentrified with hotels and high rises for the rich and upper class. With that being said there has been a constant battle between the locals in the Coney Island community to keep the funky weird vibe that Coney Island has been recognized for (ENy, p194). After our quick lesson we were given an hour to roam around and do whatever had pleased us. Britney and I decided to go straight for the boardwalk to the amusement park. With limited time we had jumped on one of Coney Islands newest roller coasters “the thunderbold”. Following our adrenal rush we had then went for a little treat at the one and only Nathans Famous. We each got a hot dog and fries and could not have been any happier feeling like little kids all over again.
Next stop… Brooklyn Heights
Following our first fun adventure of the day we then made waves to Brooklyn Heights. Here we saw a lot of beautiful architect and certainly some of the most stunning situated homes I have ever seen. Considering that Brooklyn Heights architect is so worthy “ the neighborhood was one of the first in the city to be protected by New York’s 1965 Landmarks Preservation Law” ( 201). Walking around and breaking our necks to look and admire the beauty that these building had we made our way to the Transit Musuem. As we were walking down the stairs, I had thought we were entering another subway station to get to our next location but little did I know Michael had explained to us that we were actually walking into an incredible museum. When we got down to the museum we were assigned a lovely tour guide who educated the class and I on how the subway system came to exist. She explained to us that before trains came to exist that New York City streets were flooded with trash and manure, at the time when horses were the only source of public transportation. We learned that before trains came to exist, New York City streets were flooded with trash and manure (when horses were the only source of public transportation). It was not until 1888, the government came to intervene and created the department of sanitation as well as a lower subway system. The first subway was not complete until 1904, and this guided the development of areas all across Manhattan as opposed to the majority of the population living in one overly populated area where disease traveled rapidly. With said New York City would not be the same without mass transit. After learning about the design and the building of the subway systems we then parted our way to view the second half of the museum. This was my favorite part of the museum because we actually got to see and go on the collection of antique subways cars that they had on their lower level. All of the original trains had fun ads above each seat along with funky colors and woven wicker striped seats. I really loved the brightness and youthfulness of the old subway cars and I would actually prefer subway cars how they used to be verses now! Although it was very cool to see how New York subway cars have evolved over time.
After our tour we then reach the Plymouth Church said to be the most significant sites in Brooklyn Heights. We enter the courtyard and discussed the history of the church and how Henry Ward Beecher, a famous abolitionist, preached here from 1849-188. Beecher was so famous that on Sundays, they created special boats known as “Beecher Boats” so that people of Manhattan were able to hear his preaching’s (206). Still today, his statue still stands tall in front of the church as if he was preaching to the people.
After long strides of walking several blocks we reach the Brooklyn Bridge Park at last! Here we had a great view of the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Willamburg bridge(s). This park-looked picture perfect as this area was surrounded by a beautiful waterfront and of course the city skyline. There were tons of tourists eating ice cream, laughing and playing and several brides and grooms because who wouldn’t want to get married in such a beautiful location!
A few steps later we arrived at Dumbo, a portion of the park which got its name because of its location "down under the Manhattan Bridge overpass" as Merritta had told us. This area was once recognized for manufacturing and was bordered with factories in the 1890s producing paper boxes machinery and brillow soap pads. Later on this district had grown into an area where artists came to seek for inexpensive loft spaces (ENY, 207). Today, a lot of the factories still remain standing, though gentrification is changing much of that and now this area has become the highest concentration of technology firms in New York (booooo). After our little history lesson we then walk to Jane's Carousel, which was originally used in a theme park in Ohio but was terribly damaged by a fire (ENY, p. 207). In 1984 the carousel was bought by jane Walentas and her husband, who was on the the main real estate developers in Dumbo. They spent 20 years repairing “ all 48 of the carousels wooden horses” (ENY, p.208). Surrounding the carousel are these elegant glass walls and ceilings, which represent a jewelry box that is worth millions. At this location we spent a great amount of time enjoying the nice breeze, people watching and listening to an awesome funky hipster band (who I fell in love with). Also, Britney and I of course had to ride the carousel as we both laughed and smiled on our horses looking over at the remarkable views.
Next stop Brooklyn Bridge..
On our way over to the Brooklyn Bridge we had made a quick pit stop to fuel our systems with some ice cream at Jacquess Torree. Although I did not get any ice cream it looked very delicious and I heard from former classmates that it was very tastey. While everyone was eating their ice cream Michael and I were busy taking “grungy” and “tough” photos in front of the graffiti that was done on the building ahead of the ice cream shop. I tried to look as “bad ass” as possible but Michael was not pleased with my smiling face haha so I got another classmate to model in my place.
Finally we made it the Brooklyn Bridge after what seemed like forever, don’t get me wrong it was worth the every minute of walking. But before actually walking across we had another quick history lesson on the bridge. One of the many fun facts we learned about this bridge was that it was built by a woman, recognized as Emily Roebling (this was my favorite fact of them all). We also learned the bridge is the oldest suspension bridge in the United States and for a while “was also recognized as the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere” (ENY, p.208). And before the bridge was even built, ferries were used to get from Brooklyn to Manhattan, however, during time of inclement weather, ferries were not able to operate. Therefore building the bridge over the East River to connect Manhattan and Brooklyn would make for an easer safer commute. Also it would unify New York greatly. After learning about some brief history we began our 1.1 mile walk across the bridge enjoying the most breathtaking views. It was the most ideal timing as the sun was setting beautifully and the temperature had started to cool down. Although my phone had died at this point of the journey and I could not flash any pictures I will always have the memories of this moment in my mind.
After our long day of exploring Michael, Brittney, Marielle, Bobby and I had taken a little trip to St.Mark. There we grabbed some warm ramen noodle and split a few yummy appetizers . We had all indulged on our huge bowls of ramen as we shared our favorite experiences of the day along with favorite spots to visit in the city. The day could have not ended any better, as I was more than content with good food and company!
3. Chelsea and the Village
We started our trip in the usual location Penn station but this time it was a little different because Penn station was actually part of our tour. I have been in and out of penn station countless times but know very little about the history behind it so I was looking forward to hearing to Michael and Meritta had to say. They had went over that Penn Station was built in 1910 and co-constructed by the famous Stanford White and at the time was considered one of the greatest buildings in New York City. That was until the upper part was demolished in 1963 so that it could stay within the city’s financial budget (ENY p.114). Still today penn station remains the busiest station in the United States.
We then head over to 30th street and Tenth Avenue midtown towards Chelsea. There we discovered the High Line that was originally the 10th Avenue, or “Death Avenue,” train line in the 19th century, but was closed due to the many deaths it caused (ENY p. 84). There was immense debate what to do with it until just in 2006 it became the above ground park that locals and tourists now flood and enjoy (ENY p. 84). There will actually be a brand new section of the Highline that will be added thiscoming Sunday. Again, where water is most likely people will follow and yet again gentrification has invaded Chelsea. With an awesome lively park, beautiful water view, and the heart of art culture there is an increased demand for real estate. Today, several older buildings have been replaced with newer and modern buildings, most with “for rent” signs. Now a place that used to be populated with a majority of middle and lower class, these people can no longer afford to live there and must move to another location.
After a little detour on the highline as the whole class and I got caught up engaging in the beautiful art, greenery and people watching we lost Michael and Meritta. With said we wasted a little bit of time but was able to catch up with them in no time to continue our next adventure. At this point we all were laughing about the incident as we made way to do a quick gallery. I have to say the art galleries make Chelsea so unique, but there are way too many to visit and appreciate all in one afternoon so we just skipped around from one gallery to the next. One of my favorite galleries that really caught my eye was The Unix. The artist showcased in Unix was KwangHo Shin. His method and technique was impeccable as he used bright colored oils and abstract strokes of paint to craft original and vibrant portraits. Considering his work is so amazing its also been displayed d in South Korea- his homeland and Berlin, Germany.
After being so “artsy” we then make our way to Greenwich Village also being Meritta’s native neighborhood! I was really looking forward to this part of the day because of all the great times and memories I have had in the area before. From what I experienced it is a pretty lively and happening area as there are tons of fun restaurants, delicious food and bars to go to. From what we learned, Greenwich Village has done a complete 360 over the course of decades. It used to be known as a wholesome and pleasant residential property from the early 19th century when the area was recognized as the suburb of New York City (ENY p. 88). But things change overtime and during the 1950’s and 1960’s it had become the core Mecca for hippies and today it has been gentrified into a place where only the elite live due to extremely expensive rent fees. During our little visit we stop by the Jefferson Market Garden and Library, a place that I was unfamiliar with. The design of the Library was interesting as it was originally a courthouse when it was built in 1877. The Gothic design was greatly influenced by King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria (ENY p. 91). The library stood there stunningly and I hope next time when I am in the area I could get a closer look and walk in and peep not only from the outside but from the inside as well.
We then rapidly walk to Christopher Street where we learn the start of Gay Rights Movement in New York begins here. In this specific area there was a secret gay community. With that being said riots took place in 1969 at the Stonewall Inn to fight and protect equal gay rights (ENY p.92). At this point of time this was only starting point for the Gay Rights Movement and a the following year later began the annual tradition of the Gay Pride Parade. To this day this parade is still going on!
Next we walk into Washington square which sadly to say I have never actually been to! It is truly beautiful as you enter the walkway towards the arch, which is filled with greenery and benches. When I walked through I got this upbeat vibe as I heard two fun bands playing, people talking and enjoying themselveles and people making crafts, it was very refreshing to see. On top of all the beauty one of the many things that caught my eye was the “pigeon man”. I could not get over how hundreds of pigeons would just fly over his way and land on him! I was intrigued that he would let them even do that; it was definitely something I have never seen before. After experiencing for ourselves what the park is actually like we finally reach the iconic arch! Again designer Stanford White has left his mark in New York City. He created the iconic arch to resemble the Arc de Triomphe in Paris (ENY p.95)
As we walk forward, we find a cute little hidden street filled with cobblestone called “Washington Mews”. The original cobblestone was still in one piece halfway through the street; it looked very pleasant, as most of it still seemed reserved. While standing in this timeless area Michael and Merritta had told us this area was used in the 19th century for carriage stables and horses and used to be a linking point between the East and Hudson Rivers (ENY p.96).
Finally after our busy morning/ afternoon we break to get food. We were allowed an hour to split and get whatever we wanted long as we made it bac to meet in front of the historic café wha?. Which classic artists such as, Janis Joplin, Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix actually performed here ! During this hour break I was able to fit in two falafels at this hole in the wall falafel place and was able to munch on some insomnia cookies as a treat afterwards!
Our hour break was over, and we headed to the Merchants House Museum. The exterior of the house was quite interesting as it contained Federal style architecture. When we walked inside the design was completely ravished Greek Revival style. We then had split into groups, as we were lucky enough to each get a tour guide to show us around the house. It was neat, because I felt like I actually got a feel for what the culture was like in the time period of the early 19th century as we went room to room. Each level of the house had a different feel. My favorite room that I saw was the special family room in the basement where it was said all the intimate moments of the family take place. Although it was simple and bare I loved the idea of the room and could totally see myself having a room like that in the future for my family. One of the things that surprised me was the two separate rooms for husband and wife. This was a staple in every home at the time where the husband and wife and to be in two separate rooms throughout their marriage. I think it surprised me the most because today this would never been seen in a traditional household. Lastly our tour guide had told us that there were told to be tales of ghost sightings and activity through out years, which spooked me out!
Following the tour of the Merchant’s House we walk to the East Village. I have actually been to the East Village a few times and have always loved it there. We walk past Astor Place stop joined to the 6 line and Michael gives us some fun facts on the man who influenced the area. John Jacob Astor was originally a fur trader, which now makes sensee as to why there are beaver mosaics at the Astor Place stop. After, Astor went into real estate and which he had prolonged to develop the community. We then overtake the Cooper Union Foundation Building, which I have never done before. The significance behind this building is President Lincoln stood here in 1860 to compose the Cooper Union Address during the Civil War (ENY p.103). It was cool because we not only got to see it from the outside but we were able to actually experience Cooper Union building from the inside as well. The design was super innovative, mimicking a beehive to demonstrate the continuous activity that goes on in the school.
Lastly we end class in St.Marks around Alphabet City. We reach Tompkins Square Park where we hear about the struggles the community had to tolerate just to remain the land they lived on. The citizens of the community were recognized for their strong opinions. In 1910- the remake of the Park was made of adding fences and taking out the band shell, which was done to discourage groups from forming. With said this called for several riots but the first major one was in 1863 against drafts for the civil war. Another highlighted riot was in 1988 when gentrification was taking over (ENY p.107). As we were admiring the outside it just so happens that the community was hosting a fair celebrating the garden. The host had then seen us and happily welcomed us in the garden to take a peek for ourselves. Although we got to walk thru the garden my favorite part was the actual outside. I loved the recycled flower decorations made from plastic and metal soda cans. I also found out these were made specifically to prevent people from jumping over the fence. The idea is both resourceful and beautiful! The day had ended there and I felt so refreshed to say the least!