So interesting about Gramercy Park. I wonder what the geography of the city would look like today had New York continued to create a dispersed network of neighborhood squares rather than combining all into one massive Central Park? Would we have a less economically segregated city with pockets of wealth around important parks being separated by more middle and working-class blocks?
I'm so jealous (but also so happy) you got to take a tour with Keith! It's been on my to do list for years. He joined part of a Broadway walk I did a few years ago and even spending a little time with him walking Broadway was so educational.
I also used to work in Astor Place right next to Colonnade Row (above the Blue Man Group - RIP) and loved that that area is so full of history. I literally tell anyone who will listen to me about the beaver motifs in the Astor Pl subway station and also how the Cooper Union included an elevator shaft into its design before passenger elevators were really a thing!
Didn't know that fact about Cooper Union - so cool!! Also cannot recommend the tour with Keith enough, it was incredibly information-dense. I'm lucky that my SO got me a ticket as a gift!
Wow. Awesome post - did not know that RE: Grammrrcy park and why there are more streets than avenues.
You should check out the Morgan Library if you want more Gilded Age content!
Absolutely love the Morgan Library!! Been meaning to go again before the Jane Austen exhibit ends
So interesting about Gramercy Park. I wonder what the geography of the city would look like today had New York continued to create a dispersed network of neighborhood squares rather than combining all into one massive Central Park? Would we have a less economically segregated city with pockets of wealth around important parks being separated by more middle and working-class blocks?
I'm so jealous (but also so happy) you got to take a tour with Keith! It's been on my to do list for years. He joined part of a Broadway walk I did a few years ago and even spending a little time with him walking Broadway was so educational.
I also used to work in Astor Place right next to Colonnade Row (above the Blue Man Group - RIP) and loved that that area is so full of history. I literally tell anyone who will listen to me about the beaver motifs in the Astor Pl subway station and also how the Cooper Union included an elevator shaft into its design before passenger elevators were really a thing!
Didn't know that fact about Cooper Union - so cool!! Also cannot recommend the tour with Keith enough, it was incredibly information-dense. I'm lucky that my SO got me a ticket as a gift!