9/26/2014
Journal 5: Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters on the East Side
The class first takes the E train to switch onto the 6 uptown until we reach the 103rd street stop. Our first stop is the Museum of the City of New York. Originally set in the Gracie Mansion when it was created in the 1923, it was then moved to preserve a Georgian Revival building (ENY 163). Here we watched a great 20 minute on the history of New York City and how it became the bustling community it is today. It was very humbling to see the slow yet drastic transformation from farmlands into skyscrapers. We then walked around the museum, taking in portraits of prominent New Yorkers and the items of the wealthy society of the past. This area of Manhattan used to be filled with extravagant mansions in the 1800’s. The wealthiest people of the country took haven here along with their excessive, expensive goods. This time period was considered the Gilded Era (Blue Guide p. 376). These mansions did not survive past the 20th century as Fifth Avenue became a commercial hub more than an elite place to settle down. The rich continued to climb uptown in search for a finer location to live (ENY p. 128).
After a lovely tour of the Museum, Mike introduces us to Luke. He is a friendly tour guide as well as a renowned poet. We had the pleasure of hearing one of his poems that reconfirmed the meaning of New York City to me. His poem about solidarity reminded me the different people of a community are all beautiful and made more so when brought side by side.
He then walks us around “El Barrio” or Spanish Harlem. This nickname was coined from the influx of Puerto Ricans that arrived after World War I. We pass a lot of projects and tenements. In the era of Robert Moses, he wanted to keep the lower class separated from the middle and upper class. He achieved this through uplifting the lower class from their homes and condensing them all together in one building. This backfires in the long run however because impoverished people have coinciding problems such as drug use or unemployment. By the 1960’s and 70’s, this area has transformed into a place of high crime and danger (ENY p. 162). |
The true meaning of this week’s journal entry title derives from the great Elton John. His song Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters truly captures the resilient spirit needed to continue in this area. His lyrics “rose trees never grow in New York City” accompanied by “my own seeds shall be sown in New York City” show that population living in the area have the hardy personality to persevere and continue in life. As Luke walked us around East Harlem, we noticed on the fences of the community gardens were quotes in Spanish and English. Ranging from positive quotes of reaching one’s dreams to love, this community was clearly working hard to overcome the bad reputation it has taken from the 1960’s.
It is especially important that Elton John mentions in his song the economic struggle between the rich and the poor created by gentrification. “Subway’s no way for a good man to go down, Rich man can ride and the hobo he can drown.” East Harlem is clearly going through the process of gentrification due to the opportune open space in the area known as Central Park. Since the 1990’s, more wealthy people demand real estate in the area and more constructors are willing to oblige. There is an increase of modern apartment complexes popping up in the area as well as nicer restaurants (ENY p. 162).
|
Luke is a very thorough tour guide as he shows us the beautiful mosaics and other wall art around East Harlem. A huge portrait that stood out to me was that of Rev. Pedro Pietri. He was a Native Puerto Rican who became a Spanish activist for the citizens of East Harlem (ENY p. 163). Luke recited a short reading involving the Spanish spirit fighting for equality, making me realize the hard work put in by these residents just to continue on in life. We make our way into a community garden, in which Luke explains holds the theme of female empowerment. This is confirmed with a fountain designed to resemble the fallopian tubes and a huge mural of two powerful women. This mural called “Soldaderas” showcase the famous Frida Kahlo, artist, and Julia de Burgos, poet. Both are important because they were feminists as well as proud of their heritage. Like Rev. Pedro Pietri, they believed in the importance of holding on to their Spanish culture while still seeking the new nation’s freedom and equality (ENY p. 164).
Our final stop with Luke is the Justo Botanica. It is place for spiritual and natural healing. It is similar to New York City where it holds artifacts that pertain to different religions. It is a place meant to appease to all that come for comfort. After we bid Luke good bye and thank him for a great tour, we go out for lunch. To stay with the motif of Spanish culture we head to El Aguila for delicious tacos! The tortilla flats tasted traditional and homemade while still staying inexpensive for a hearty meal.
After lunch, we make our way through the Vanderbilt Gate into the Conservatory Garden of Central Park. The gate originally was the entrance to the Vanderbilt Mansion on Fifth Avenue and 58th Street, which is now department store Bergdorf Goodman. I was really excited because I’ve never been this far north of Central Park despite hanging out there numerous times. When we enter the garden, it conveys a sense of calmness and style. The creators made it so by dividing the gardens into three different styles: French, English, and Italian (ENY p. 150). It gave off the cosmopolitan vibe that accepts different cultures, as New York City does with its people.
The class makes the wild decision to walk the entirety of Central Park back down to 59th street! I am prepared for the challenge and take in all the sights we see along the way. I am astounded by the Belvedere Castle for its beauty and the fact that I’ve never pasted by it in all the times I’ve been to Central Park! It was built as a Victorian Folly, merely for decoration (Blue Guide p.293). The name “Belvedere” itself translates into “beautiful view” both for the loveliness of the castle and the sweet location that has a grand view of Central Park (ENY p. 154). We pass the Guggenheim Museum as well as others as we come down Museum Mile, where some of New York’s finest museums are located. I was so tempted to stop into a few as we passed by! However, we had 30 or so city blocks left to walk. We then encounter the oldest monument in Central Park, known as Cleopatra’s Needle or the Obelisk. It has moved from Egypt to the US as a token of good relations between the two countries (ENY p.153).
Another place I’ve never been to, I’m slightly ashamed to say, is Strawberry fields. I mainly stuck to the lower east side of Central Park whenever I did make my way there. I was ecstatic to learn we’d be passing the memorial dedicated to the famous John Lennon. Major Ed Koch devoted the site to him along with the iconic “Imagine” mosaic tile that is recognized worldwide. On our way out of Central Park, we take in the sight of the Dakota Hotel where Lennon resided with his wife Yoko Ono (ENY p.156). The history surrounding Central Park was a grand thing to take in.
The class takes a sitting break by the Bethesda Fountain, considered the center of Central Park. Mike tells us to go through the Bethesda Terrace, a beautifully decorated cave, for a great sight or to use the bathrooms (ENY p.155). This is one of my favorite iconic spots of Central Park. I’ve seen countless wedding photo shoots take place here, so it is nice to know many others can relate that the “heart of central park” is a worthy sight to see.
I didn’t expect many new encounters and yet I experienced so many great new things today! I look forward to returning and extending my growing love for East Harlem and the Eastside! Ending my journal with one last song:
I didn’t expect many new encounters and yet I experienced so many great new things today! I look forward to returning and extending my growing love for East Harlem and the Eastside! Ending my journal with one last song:
10/3/2014
Journal 6: Glamor on the West Side
I was already pumped for the day’s events, but when I learned our schedule changed to head to the Frick Museum I was overjoyed! I’ve been meaning to go there to see one of my favorite paintings Love Letters by Fragonard in person and it was finally happening! I could barely contain my excitement as we took the E to the 6 and got off at my old school’s station stop, 68th Street-Hunter College. We walked over to 70th and Fifth Avenue and entered the beautiful estate that used to be a mansion. The Frick estate was a leftover from the many mansions that were built from the Gilded Age in the 1880s. This period lasted from the Civil War to World War I. Henry Clay Frick was in the trade of railroads and found it to be very lucrative. He made his first million by the age of 30. He was originally located in Pennsylvania but moved to New York by 1905. His mansion was constructed and complete by 1914 done by the work of Carrere and Hastings (ENY p 130). He longed to convey the style of Louis the 16th, making it a French house. He made it so expansive for he knew he wanted it to be a museum in the future when he was long gone. After his death in 1919, the museum made its way to the public by 1935. Our class was first brought by a tour guide to the garden part of the new museum that was originally the driveway.
We then enter the dining room. It was used during that time period for entertainment and impressing guests at dinner parties, normally around 40 people. During this time, the rooms constructed were now built more expansively than compared to the brownstone houses we’ve seen in Brooklyn. Being a great collector of artwork, Frick kept many paintings in each room of his household. In the dining room, there were two main portraits depicting contrasting women. They were looking at each other, but their clothing style and backgrounds were opposites.
Of all the rooms, the Fragonard Room was my favorite. After dinner was served and consumed at one of these average dinner parties, the men and women retired into different rooms. The Fragonard Room was the drawing room women retired to. I might be biased because the room held Love Letters, but the general public can equally appreciate the beauty in this room. The lofty paintings were a lot larger than I anticipated, covering the walls of the room. The theme was clearly romantic and indulgent. The largest paintings by Fragonard titled The Progress of Love date back to the late 1700’s. The way the paintings made its way to Frick started when Madame du Barry, the mistress of King Louis the 15th of France, had requested these large panel paintings made in rococo style. Unfortunately, she got rid of them quickly around the French Revolution, when Neo-classism was coming into style. The paintings were then handed down to J Piers Morgan. His death in 1915 caused the paintings to be brought to close friend, Henry Clay Frick (Blue Guide, p 304). |
The class regroups and walks to Hell’s Kitchen 45th street to grab Thai food for lunch. This neighborhood runs from 34th and 59th street and 8th avenue down to the Hudson River. This area was the setting inspiration for West Side Story due to its gang violence filled history (ENY p 122). Despite Hell’s Kitchen being a crime ridden area, the neighborhood had been in the mist of transformation since the 1990’s due to gentrification (ENY p 123). We lunch at a Thai restaurant called Yum Yum Bangkok. I love Thai food, so naturally everything I try is amazing!
After a satisfying lunch, the class walks over to Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. I was surprised I’ve never came upon this place! We encounter a beautiful fountain upon walking towards the entrance. This is the place is homage for the New York Ballet, Philharmonic, and Opera. The class is brought in momentarily to admire the environment and the huge chandeliers that are set in the place. Once inside, I felt the presence of timelessness. It was clearly a prestigious place that held high quality entertainment. With the area having a history of increased gangs and crimes, Lincoln Center has come a long way.
We then take the 3 all the way up to 135th Street Station in Central Harlem. There is so much history held in this area. It was originally an Old Dutch village 1658 (ENY 173). We meet our tour guide Jim who was very knowledgeable of the Harlem area being the seasoned tour guide he is. He explained the deep history how Harlem had the second largest Jewish Community and the second largest African American Community in the country (Chicago is first). The area also has the second oldest housing project. Jim listed off countless notable things of Harlem: the YMCA, the African American Renaissance, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, and more. The African American Renaissance was the rebirth of new literature, art, and music. Obviously, jazz was a sensation that came to be originating from Harlem. Savoy Ballroom was the birthplace for the dance sensation the shimmy and for swing dance.
Jim also listed famous people who resided in Harlem like Ella Fitzgerald, James Earl Jones, and Madame CJ Walker. Madame CJ Walker was actually the owner of the first mansion of Harlem now converted to a library on 136th street.
Jim also listed famous people who resided in Harlem like Ella Fitzgerald, James Earl Jones, and Madame CJ Walker. Madame CJ Walker was actually the owner of the first mansion of Harlem now converted to a library on 136th street.
Harlem is also surprisingly residential. Back in the 1890’s, Harlem –specifically Striver’s Row- was actually a very exclusive place to live. It is arguably the most beautiful street of Manhattan. Families wanted to live there for the appealing rowhouses (ENY p 174). Strivers row was also a desirable place to live because it was a luxury to have an alleyway near your townhouse. Despite the tumultuous changes Harlem went through, Striver’s Row continues to shine in its beauty. It was created by David H. King originally for upper middle class white families. King put great detail into the elegant townhouses. There were three different architectures using different shades of brick material in order to avoid the housing from all looking the same. The terracotta lining however unites the buildings to look unified and proper (Blue guide p 441). Ironically, this neighborhood was one of the last places to let Africans live in the area, despite Harlem being known for its African American population (ENY p 181). Today, one unit housing complex costs about $4 million.
Churches played an important part in the African American community. Harlem is filled with many beautiful churches to meet the spiritual needs of its residents. We pass by a main church, Mother African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. It was founded in 1796 meant to liberate and uplift the African American spirit. The purpose of having a huge interior is to be able to preach to the masses. Clearly, churches served as solace to many people of the community. It is unique because of the fact it was built in the middle of street. The Gothic Revival style paired with the Manhattan schist material it is made out of truly makes it a sight to see (ENY p 180).
While we’re walking we also catch a glimpse of the beautiful City College of New York. It is the first public city college of the United States. It was built with Manhattan Schist leftover from subway construction by George Browne Post. Added white terracotta in the style of Gothic Revival creates an immaculate view comparable to medieval castles (ENY 184).
|
Jim takes us along 135th street known as the Harlem Walk of Fame. Harlem Chamber of Commerce had it made in 1995 in order to pay homage to noble African Americans that have made an impact in the world (ENY p 183). The stretch of street is beautiful and reminds me of the great accomplishments made in the African American community and in the general public.
Jim tells us about the Apollo Theater, the mecca of black entertainment. Performers such as Billie Holiday and the Jackson Five have graced the stage here. Originally a theater for the white community only, it was revamped and targeted the African American community once the majority of the community transitioned to African American (Blue Guide p 440). Jim told us the story of the tree of hope in the Apollo Theater. Artists must rub the tree for good luck before a performance (ENY p 177)
We end our class at 125th street- known to be the heart of Harlem! It was an unexpectedly amazing day crossing one of my main spots to visit off my bucket list while seeing great brand new places along the way too!
Jim tells us about the Apollo Theater, the mecca of black entertainment. Performers such as Billie Holiday and the Jackson Five have graced the stage here. Originally a theater for the white community only, it was revamped and targeted the African American community once the majority of the community transitioned to African American (Blue Guide p 440). Jim told us the story of the tree of hope in the Apollo Theater. Artists must rub the tree for good luck before a performance (ENY p 177)
We end our class at 125th street- known to be the heart of Harlem! It was an unexpectedly amazing day crossing one of my main spots to visit off my bucket list while seeing great brand new places along the way too!
10/10/2014
Journal 7: Manhattan's Beginning, Rich with History
I was looking forward to this class because the Financial District was where Manhattan all began! With the great water trading routes, the reliable commerce
stabilized New York City and elevated it to the global economic mecca it is today.
We first start our journey on the 3 train down to Chambers Street. The first great sight we take in is the Woolworth building. It was made by Frank Winfield Woolworth who built the successful 5 cent chain stores. He wanted to create the tallest building when it was time to build his main corporation. His wish came true and it was measured the tallest skyscraper in New York City when it was made in 1913 until 1930 when the Chrysler Building was made. It was inspired by gothic architecture from European cathedrals and deemed the “Cathedral of Commerce” for its architectural beauty (ENY, 46). Being the timeless building it is in its intricate design, it was a great sight to take in.
stabilized New York City and elevated it to the global economic mecca it is today.
We first start our journey on the 3 train down to Chambers Street. The first great sight we take in is the Woolworth building. It was made by Frank Winfield Woolworth who built the successful 5 cent chain stores. He wanted to create the tallest building when it was time to build his main corporation. His wish came true and it was measured the tallest skyscraper in New York City when it was made in 1913 until 1930 when the Chrysler Building was made. It was inspired by gothic architecture from European cathedrals and deemed the “Cathedral of Commerce” for its architectural beauty (ENY, 46). Being the timeless building it is in its intricate design, it was a great sight to take in.
We then walked through City Hall Park. This area of Manhattan holds a lot of history dating back to the 18th century. Tensions were high between the freed men and the British enforcers with the Revolutionary War in the mist. This area was where George Washington was read the Declaration of Independence then preceded with his troops down to the Bowling Green to knock down the statue of King George III of England (Blue Guide, 44 and 81).
|
The Municipal Building was next on our list of sightseeing. It was needed because of The Great Consolidation of 1898 when the original five cities: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island became the five boroughs of one great city. The Municipal Building was needed in order to house different offices that will now be needed from combining the five boroughs. The architects McKinley and White made the gorgeous building in a bozart fashion and made it the largest municipal building of New York (ENY, 42). The topping statue called the Civic Fame was beautiful in its gilded timelessness. It is the third largest statue of New York City. The statue represents the five boroughs merging symbolized with her holding a five pointed crown (ENY, 43).
On the south end of the Municipal Building was an expansive archway. The simple design actually held a huge impact on the architecture. The tiles used had the coined phrase “Guastavino Tiles.” The famous architect, Rafael Guastavino, placed the tiles in such a way that the vaulted archway is help up by the tiles themselves. They interlock and hold each other in place. Guastavino also has work featured in the Cathedral of St. John the Divine and in Grand Central Station (Blue Guide, 43). I found this park of the Municipal Building beautiful in its simplicity. The story behind the architecture made me appreciate the design so much more.
The same appreciation goes to the US District Courthouse for the history behind the area as well. It may be known as a place where justice is served, but it is simultaneously a resting home for thousands of dead people. The fountain in the middle of the site is titled “Triumph of the Human Spirit.” The beautiful black granite fountain is meant to resemble a boat with a sail. It is a memorial for African American slaves who have been buried in the area in 1800s (ENY, 43). It was slightly eerie walking in the area, thinking about the multitude of nameless people buried underneath.
Another important element that was placed in the same location from the 1800s was a pond. It was essential to the area back then because it drained in Manhattan and was the original water supply stretching 48 acres. However, it was not a good water supply because it was contaminated quickly and brought an epidemic outbreak of cholera in Lower Manhattan. This caused the Middle class to flee, filling Lower Manhattan with a community of Irish and free Africans (ENY, 43). New York City is considered a melting pot, having different cultures meshing together, but in the 1800s, these two communities held high tensions between each other.
Another important element that was placed in the same location from the 1800s was a pond. It was essential to the area back then because it drained in Manhattan and was the original water supply stretching 48 acres. However, it was not a good water supply because it was contaminated quickly and brought an epidemic outbreak of cholera in Lower Manhattan. This caused the Middle class to flee, filling Lower Manhattan with a community of Irish and free Africans (ENY, 43). New York City is considered a melting pot, having different cultures meshing together, but in the 1800s, these two communities held high tensions between each other.
Our next stop was really close by. The New York County Courthouse, now currently housing the Board of Education here. It was fashioned in a Greek Revival Bozar design. Originally this building was named the Tweed Courthouse named after Boss Tweed. He was a politician that was particularly good to the Irish immigrate community. He knew immigrants were important in building his empire. However, he was infamous for scheming to make an exorbitant amount of money for himself. His Courthouse took $20 million in the making, while he embezzled $200 million (ENY, 46).
Our class next walked right along to New York City Hall. I felt really excited and honored to be able to get a tour inside the glorious 200 year old building that stood for the office of the mayor and city council members. The exterior of New York City Hall is featured in a neoclassical design with the long building holding doors that face north into city. The back of the building was originally brick then reclassified in limestone.
Right outside the City Hall is the park area also known as the "Common Green" from the British. It’s known as the oldest green space in the city. This historic landmark used to be like Times Square with publishers around the area. Newsboys would come to the area in the 1800s to yell the news headlines. At the time, this was the fastest way to communicate breaking news.
I found our tour guide Gale Cornell to be extremely knowledgeable in the history of the location. The building made in 1802, built over jail cells and alms houses (also known as homeless shelters). This is considered the third city hall of New York City, the first built by the Dutch in 17th century.
The building holds three floors with a skylight in the beautiful rotunda in the lobby when we first enter. The lobby was clad in marble in order to impress because City Hall was also built as the official receptor of city where huge events took place (ENY, 41). I was mesmerized by the stairs, wondering how they were held up and yet give off the illusion as if they were floating. The stairs were actually held up by cantilevering. This is the process of the compression of the marble steps in order to hold each other together, interlocking the steps by keeping pressure on one another (Blue Guide, 84). Upon walking into the lobby the class noticed a bronze replica Washington sculpture to the right. It is apparently the most accurate depiction of George Washington done in a bronze form. Gale explained his toe was shiny compared to the rest of the sculpture because it was protocol to rub his toe for good luck. I had to try it, so hopefully I got some good luck as well!
Right outside the City Hall is the park area also known as the "Common Green" from the British. It’s known as the oldest green space in the city. This historic landmark used to be like Times Square with publishers around the area. Newsboys would come to the area in the 1800s to yell the news headlines. At the time, this was the fastest way to communicate breaking news.
I found our tour guide Gale Cornell to be extremely knowledgeable in the history of the location. The building made in 1802, built over jail cells and alms houses (also known as homeless shelters). This is considered the third city hall of New York City, the first built by the Dutch in 17th century.
The building holds three floors with a skylight in the beautiful rotunda in the lobby when we first enter. The lobby was clad in marble in order to impress because City Hall was also built as the official receptor of city where huge events took place (ENY, 41). I was mesmerized by the stairs, wondering how they were held up and yet give off the illusion as if they were floating. The stairs were actually held up by cantilevering. This is the process of the compression of the marble steps in order to hold each other together, interlocking the steps by keeping pressure on one another (Blue Guide, 84). Upon walking into the lobby the class noticed a bronze replica Washington sculpture to the right. It is apparently the most accurate depiction of George Washington done in a bronze form. Gale explained his toe was shiny compared to the rest of the sculpture because it was protocol to rub his toe for good luck. I had to try it, so hopefully I got some good luck as well!
Gale brought us from the lobby, up the stairs, and into the Main Chamber where city council members meet. There are 51 members; usually their role is considered a part time job. The council is predominantly democratic with 48 in the council and only 3 republicans with a city budget of $77 million. The council makes decisions on New York City laws specifically, not state laws. New York City residents are welcome to city meetings as well. The council approves land use, and buildings made or taken down. They aren’t involved with aesthetic choices like how the buildings may be decorated.
The ceiling of the Main Chamber was exquisite. It had a lady in a mural that represented the city of New York. A really interesting small detail that was difficult to spot was that the throne of the lady is actually the Brooklyn Bridge! The people surrounding her represent different ideologies such as education or abundance.
The New York City Hall houses 130 portraits, but some great portraits of military people are stored on the second floor in the Governor's Room. Famous militia veterans such as George Clinton and General Jonathan Williams adorn the walls of this bright blue room. This room was first used as an office for the governor when he visited New York City as well as a reception room for cocktail events (ENY, 41). Abraham Lincoln would also use this room in his time as a place for a meet and greet with those who would line the door to shake his hand. Recently, presidents of universities from all over the world pertaining to science curriculums were here to discuss the plans for development of Roosevelt Island. Clearly, this room has had many events and iconic people pass through here. It now serves as part of a museum of New York’s civic history (Blue Guide, 84). I felt like I was going back through the years stepping on the same grounds so many historic figures have, long before even my grandparents were born!
The ceiling of the Main Chamber was exquisite. It had a lady in a mural that represented the city of New York. A really interesting small detail that was difficult to spot was that the throne of the lady is actually the Brooklyn Bridge! The people surrounding her represent different ideologies such as education or abundance.
The New York City Hall houses 130 portraits, but some great portraits of military people are stored on the second floor in the Governor's Room. Famous militia veterans such as George Clinton and General Jonathan Williams adorn the walls of this bright blue room. This room was first used as an office for the governor when he visited New York City as well as a reception room for cocktail events (ENY, 41). Abraham Lincoln would also use this room in his time as a place for a meet and greet with those who would line the door to shake his hand. Recently, presidents of universities from all over the world pertaining to science curriculums were here to discuss the plans for development of Roosevelt Island. Clearly, this room has had many events and iconic people pass through here. It now serves as part of a museum of New York’s civic history (Blue Guide, 84). I felt like I was going back through the years stepping on the same grounds so many historic figures have, long before even my grandparents were born!
Gale gave us a wonderful and thorough tour filled with many details of City Hall and the workings of the place. Our class next went off to the African Burial Ground National Monument a few blocks away. Located underneath the area is a burial ground for over 20,000 African Americans. This Monument commemorates the African Americans from the 18th century who proved us with the paved grid streets Manhattan is known for today (ENY, 45). We watched a film that encompasses the influence the African American population had on the creation of Manhattan. I was surprised at how much work they put in and how little recognition they received for shaping Manhattan to be the way it is today.
Mike then gave the class a choice of where to go for lunch. I decided to go with the perfection of New York City lamb gyros from a halal cart accompanied with crepes By Suzette for dessert! Both so delicious!
Mike then gave the class a choice of where to go for lunch. I decided to go with the perfection of New York City lamb gyros from a halal cart accompanied with crepes By Suzette for dessert! Both so delicious!
The rest of our class consisted of a tour of lower Manhattan. It was fully packed given that lower Manhattan tapers to a point, making all the landmarks really close to each other.
First stop after lunch was St. Paul's Chapel. It was established in 1766 and considered the oldest church in Manhattan that is still in use. It’s designed in a Georgian style, giving it a timeless look. The church was established pre-Revolutionary war and George Washington actually would attend here. With the Twin Towers previously being in the backyard of this church, it’s a wonder how this church survived 9/11. The reason this establishment endured without any damage whatsoever was supposedly because a sycamore tree in the cemetery protected the church from any falling debris (ENY, 47). In the background beyond the cemetery I saw the beautiful sight of the Freedom Tower which now stands in a post-modern design of hope for the future.
Our class then walks over to the 9/11 memorial, not too far away from St. Paul’s Chapel. It used to be the home of the Twin Towers constructed in the 1970s. They were the tallest buildings in the city for forty years. On September 11th, 2001, the US experienced a horrible event, considerably the most tragic attack in American history. Two planes controlled by Islamist extremists crashed into the Twin Towers, claiming almost 3,000 victims 400 of them firemen and police first responders. The 9/11 memorial follows the grid plotting of the original Twin Towers and was completed May 2013. It consists of two fountains titled “Reflecting Absence.” It is to resemble a waterfall going into a black void (ENY, 48).
First stop after lunch was St. Paul's Chapel. It was established in 1766 and considered the oldest church in Manhattan that is still in use. It’s designed in a Georgian style, giving it a timeless look. The church was established pre-Revolutionary war and George Washington actually would attend here. With the Twin Towers previously being in the backyard of this church, it’s a wonder how this church survived 9/11. The reason this establishment endured without any damage whatsoever was supposedly because a sycamore tree in the cemetery protected the church from any falling debris (ENY, 47). In the background beyond the cemetery I saw the beautiful sight of the Freedom Tower which now stands in a post-modern design of hope for the future.
Our class then walks over to the 9/11 memorial, not too far away from St. Paul’s Chapel. It used to be the home of the Twin Towers constructed in the 1970s. They were the tallest buildings in the city for forty years. On September 11th, 2001, the US experienced a horrible event, considerably the most tragic attack in American history. Two planes controlled by Islamist extremists crashed into the Twin Towers, claiming almost 3,000 victims 400 of them firemen and police first responders. The 9/11 memorial follows the grid plotting of the original Twin Towers and was completed May 2013. It consists of two fountains titled “Reflecting Absence.” It is to resemble a waterfall going into a black void (ENY, 48).
Right by the memorial is Liberty Plaza, now officially known as Zuccotti Park. It is a grey zone of a private and public area, but still serves as a space for people to congregate all the same. I wouldn’t necessarily deem it a park because of its lack of greenery, but it certainly is a great area for someone working on Wall Street to sit and relax; if only for a break from work.
From the park, the class was able to take in the view of the Equitable Building. Completed in 1915, its goal was to utilize and maximize space by building up and straight. The goal was achieved and many buildings created followed the trend. However, the clustering of buildings without setbacks created severe wind tunneling. The thick buildings also gave lower Manhattan a gloomy atmosphere from the shadows the buildings created. In 1916, zoning parameters for building called the “Zoning Resolution” declared buildings had to have a setback design in order for the city to receive light and air (ENY, 50).
We also got a great view of the Trinity Church. Its original was actually built in 1697, but burned down in a fire. When recreated, this present day church was created in a Gothic Revival Style that tapered to create the tallest spire from its creation in 1846 until the Brooklyn Bridge was completed (ENY, 50). The class walks along the graveyard and we come to see Astor Cross, a beautifully ornate and tall structure shaped into a cross. It was dedicated to Caroline Webster Astor, buried at the Trinity Church Cemetery.
I get excited as we walk towards Wall Street, the great emblem of the Financial District. The name originated from the Dutch “de Waal Straat” due to a 14 foot wall in 1653 used to mark the Dutch territory and protect Manhattan from the English and Indians. It was only when Charles Dow came around in the late 19th century, this residential area became the first commercial street of New York, then onto become the center of global financial life. Dow sold railroad stocks and eventually set up the Dow Jones Average for analyzing the stock market (ENY, 51).
Close by, we come across the New York Stock Exchange. The building, as most in lower Manhattan, is planned in a Greek Revival Style. At the top of the building is a frieze titled “Integrity Protecting the Works of Man” created by John Adams Quincy Ward. From 1903 to the 1930s, it represented the prosperity of various industries New York has profited from. Finally in the 1930s, the sculptures have depreciated to the point of being unrecognizable, so they were secretly replaced with sheet metal. The public was not supposed to know in order to continue the belief of the Stock Exchange being resilient and prosperous (ENY, 51). There is a small tree to the left of the entrance that holds huge significance to the beginning of the establishment. After the American Revolution, our newly formed Congress calculated our nation to owe $80 million in bonds due to war debt. Eventually on May 17 1792, 24 brokers came together, supposedly under a Buttonwood tree, to create the stock exchange necessary to paying back the war debt. This agreement came to be the “Buttonwood Agreement” (Blue Guide, 69).
Mike leads the class across the street to the New York Federal Hall. It used to serve as a treasury, we can tell from the safes that decorate the walls of the building. A historic moment that occurred was the proposal of the United States Bill of Rights on September 25th, 1789. Now in more current times, the National Park Service hosts free exhibits teaching the public about the role this building played as a capital for funds and customs (ENY, 52).
From the park, the class was able to take in the view of the Equitable Building. Completed in 1915, its goal was to utilize and maximize space by building up and straight. The goal was achieved and many buildings created followed the trend. However, the clustering of buildings without setbacks created severe wind tunneling. The thick buildings also gave lower Manhattan a gloomy atmosphere from the shadows the buildings created. In 1916, zoning parameters for building called the “Zoning Resolution” declared buildings had to have a setback design in order for the city to receive light and air (ENY, 50).
We also got a great view of the Trinity Church. Its original was actually built in 1697, but burned down in a fire. When recreated, this present day church was created in a Gothic Revival Style that tapered to create the tallest spire from its creation in 1846 until the Brooklyn Bridge was completed (ENY, 50). The class walks along the graveyard and we come to see Astor Cross, a beautifully ornate and tall structure shaped into a cross. It was dedicated to Caroline Webster Astor, buried at the Trinity Church Cemetery.
I get excited as we walk towards Wall Street, the great emblem of the Financial District. The name originated from the Dutch “de Waal Straat” due to a 14 foot wall in 1653 used to mark the Dutch territory and protect Manhattan from the English and Indians. It was only when Charles Dow came around in the late 19th century, this residential area became the first commercial street of New York, then onto become the center of global financial life. Dow sold railroad stocks and eventually set up the Dow Jones Average for analyzing the stock market (ENY, 51).
Close by, we come across the New York Stock Exchange. The building, as most in lower Manhattan, is planned in a Greek Revival Style. At the top of the building is a frieze titled “Integrity Protecting the Works of Man” created by John Adams Quincy Ward. From 1903 to the 1930s, it represented the prosperity of various industries New York has profited from. Finally in the 1930s, the sculptures have depreciated to the point of being unrecognizable, so they were secretly replaced with sheet metal. The public was not supposed to know in order to continue the belief of the Stock Exchange being resilient and prosperous (ENY, 51). There is a small tree to the left of the entrance that holds huge significance to the beginning of the establishment. After the American Revolution, our newly formed Congress calculated our nation to owe $80 million in bonds due to war debt. Eventually on May 17 1792, 24 brokers came together, supposedly under a Buttonwood tree, to create the stock exchange necessary to paying back the war debt. This agreement came to be the “Buttonwood Agreement” (Blue Guide, 69).
Mike leads the class across the street to the New York Federal Hall. It used to serve as a treasury, we can tell from the safes that decorate the walls of the building. A historic moment that occurred was the proposal of the United States Bill of Rights on September 25th, 1789. Now in more current times, the National Park Service hosts free exhibits teaching the public about the role this building played as a capital for funds and customs (ENY, 52).
Our final destination is reached at the Museum of American Indian. We come into sight of the famous Charging Bull bronze statue. It was considered guerilla art as the creators dumped it in front of the Stock Exchange symbolizing the financial optimism. It was to be removed, but it was kept in the area moved only onto Broadway (ENY, 53). It has become extremely popular with tourists, it was so difficult attempting to get a picture of the Bull without anyone posing with it!
Right where the Museum stands was the original spot where New York was formed. The Museum has four enormous statues in front of it. The statues represent four major countries: Asia, America, England, and Africa. These statues were meant to inspire civic devotion to the viewers’ community. This class was particularly filled with a lot of historic places, making me feel a part of the making of New York City simply by visiting these grand places and learning about the story behind them! It was humbling to see New York's beginnings compared to the huge power city it stands for in the world today.
Right where the Museum stands was the original spot where New York was formed. The Museum has four enormous statues in front of it. The statues represent four major countries: Asia, America, England, and Africa. These statues were meant to inspire civic devotion to the viewers’ community. This class was particularly filled with a lot of historic places, making me feel a part of the making of New York City simply by visiting these grand places and learning about the story behind them! It was humbling to see New York's beginnings compared to the huge power city it stands for in the world today.
10/17/2014
Journal 8: Integration and Immigration
It was a sad beginning to our day because we realized it was our last class together! However, that did not diminish my excitement for the Lower East Side of Manhattan. This area is one of the most diverse places in the world! The statistics for Manhattan in 2013 is 37% of the population is made up of immigrants.
With a heavy heart, we start our journey for the last time as a class! We walk over to the F train and head downtown to get off the Delancey Street stop. We go over to the Tenement Museum and got very lucky to get a personal tour. We learned the Lower East Side (LES) used to be the most crowded and poorest area in the world, more so than Hong Kong in 1880s. These overpopulated and grimy conditions continued into the early and mid-1900s. This was highlighted by photographer, Jacob Riis. His profession was important to those inhabiting the Upper East Side of Manhattan, but he took his camera from the glitz and glamour to where the majority of the population of the city lived and in intolerable conditions. Our tour guide showed us an example in the picture “Ludlow Street Sweatshop.”
With a heavy heart, we start our journey for the last time as a class! We walk over to the F train and head downtown to get off the Delancey Street stop. We go over to the Tenement Museum and got very lucky to get a personal tour. We learned the Lower East Side (LES) used to be the most crowded and poorest area in the world, more so than Hong Kong in 1880s. These overpopulated and grimy conditions continued into the early and mid-1900s. This was highlighted by photographer, Jacob Riis. His profession was important to those inhabiting the Upper East Side of Manhattan, but he took his camera from the glitz and glamour to where the majority of the population of the city lived and in intolerable conditions. Our tour guide showed us an example in the picture “Ludlow Street Sweatshop.”
A Tenement is defined as a housing complex that holds 3-7 families who have their own kitchens. The average space given to each family was three hundred twenty five thousand square feet. From 1863 to its closing in 1935, it was estimated about 7000 people have been housed in the tenement (ENY, 67). The tour guide explained when examining the walls of one room, there were about 40 layers of paint used. This indicates to us just how many families kept moving in and out of these tenements and how important it was to personalize and create a place that seemed homely to specifically each family. Normally for these poor, immigrant families, there would be 8-10 people in one apartment in order to pay for the rent. It was a big factor to mention these families usually did not have running water either. The LES area was mostly populated by the recent immigrants that could only afford the minimal rent. This included communities from Eastern Europe: Irish, Italians, and Jews. In the 1850s Irish and Germans migrated to the LES. Jews from Russia migrated from 1880-1924 for freedom of religion and economic opportunity. This resulted in 2 million Jews immigrating to New York. As a result, New York City is the city with the largest Jewish population outside Israel to this current day. Italians came to Manhattan by the end of the century. Most of these immigrants worked for their money through the means of creating sweatshops in their small homes. Most of the time, unfortunately, these sweatshops were considered workplaces with bad working conditions.
One of the lives the Tenement Museum was able to follow from the past was the life of Harris Levine and his family. He was originally from Russia and converted his living room parlor to a sweatshop. He probably did not see his home being put into poor conditions, but from an outside point of view people saw the unfortunate conditions. Levine had three workers, 1 female and 2 males, that worked for 60 hours a week. It usually took 2 hours to make a dress that cost $15, but Levine usually only made 15 cents after calculating all the expenses. Levine persevered living in his cramped apartment with 10 people for 13 years then finally moved to Williamsburg where he owned his own store, no longer in his own parlor.
In 1911 the Triangle Shirt Waist Factory Fire occurred and really opened the public’s eye on how the lower class and the majority of New York City lived. 146 workers unjustly died due to underdeveloped fire regulations regarding safety for the employees. Employers would actually lock the doors in order to keep the smoke in, locking these poor workers as well. A local Jewish newspaper circulated, hauntingly stating that "the morgue is filled with our sacrifices.” Many residents of the LES were outraged at the injustice. If it wasn’t a family member that was affected, they knew someone who was. Fire regulations were now implemented due to the harsh backlash from this tragic incident. Workers now received a less demanding 52 hour work week.
This revolutionized living conditions in tenements as well. By 1916, fire escapes and fireproof staircases were needed. Another family the Tenement Museum was able to keep tabs on was the Reishkin family of 1911. Their apartment was different where it had running water present through the sink and tub. They also had gas lighting. The regulations for apartments required the owners to have two toilets shared between 4 families. The Reishkin family was from Lithuania bearing 6 children. Again to help pay for the rent, they housed two other people-making it 10 people living in the tiny apartment.
By 1935, laws were finally regulated to fireproof the hallways of apartments. However, during the time of the Great Depression the owner of the tenements could not afford to abide by these regulations so the building was closed down.
After the Tenement Museum, we were given the reigns to design our own tour of Chinatown! Mike broke us into small groups and gave us personally designated directions to different places. My small group and I started our walk towards Canal Street and passed by different markets that showcased food such as live crabs and exotic fruits. I was surprised by the different varieties of culture beyond Chinese in the area. There were many different patches of Italian places in between our walk from the Tenement Museum to Canal Street. When we finally got to Canal Street, we were offered plenty of items to buy: watches, jewelry, scarves, and so much more! One of our classmates ended up buying a cellphone cover before heading over to our next destination. We ended up at The Eastern States Buddhist Temple of America on 64 Mott Street. Inside we saw many statues of Buddha on display (ENY, 77). It was the first Chinese Buddhist temple located on the East Coast when it was established in 1962 (Blue Guide, 112). There was a plethora of beautiful stones encased in necklaces, bracelets, statues, and other trinkets of worship. Another classmate ended up buying a beautiful jade necklace with the symbol for happiness! We finally make our way to the different food spots Mike recommends for us: Mai Li Wah Bakery, Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, and Vivi Bubble Tea. I decide to try the pork buns at the bakery, which end up being the best pork buns I’ve ever tried! I also take the risk at the Ice Cream Factory to try the Black Sesame and Lychee flavored ice cream. It was a risk worth taking because I fell in love with the flavor! We were very proud of ourselves on our way back to the meeting spot because we managed to find all the destinations Mike suggested to us.
One of the lives the Tenement Museum was able to follow from the past was the life of Harris Levine and his family. He was originally from Russia and converted his living room parlor to a sweatshop. He probably did not see his home being put into poor conditions, but from an outside point of view people saw the unfortunate conditions. Levine had three workers, 1 female and 2 males, that worked for 60 hours a week. It usually took 2 hours to make a dress that cost $15, but Levine usually only made 15 cents after calculating all the expenses. Levine persevered living in his cramped apartment with 10 people for 13 years then finally moved to Williamsburg where he owned his own store, no longer in his own parlor.
In 1911 the Triangle Shirt Waist Factory Fire occurred and really opened the public’s eye on how the lower class and the majority of New York City lived. 146 workers unjustly died due to underdeveloped fire regulations regarding safety for the employees. Employers would actually lock the doors in order to keep the smoke in, locking these poor workers as well. A local Jewish newspaper circulated, hauntingly stating that "the morgue is filled with our sacrifices.” Many residents of the LES were outraged at the injustice. If it wasn’t a family member that was affected, they knew someone who was. Fire regulations were now implemented due to the harsh backlash from this tragic incident. Workers now received a less demanding 52 hour work week.
This revolutionized living conditions in tenements as well. By 1916, fire escapes and fireproof staircases were needed. Another family the Tenement Museum was able to keep tabs on was the Reishkin family of 1911. Their apartment was different where it had running water present through the sink and tub. They also had gas lighting. The regulations for apartments required the owners to have two toilets shared between 4 families. The Reishkin family was from Lithuania bearing 6 children. Again to help pay for the rent, they housed two other people-making it 10 people living in the tiny apartment.
By 1935, laws were finally regulated to fireproof the hallways of apartments. However, during the time of the Great Depression the owner of the tenements could not afford to abide by these regulations so the building was closed down.
After the Tenement Museum, we were given the reigns to design our own tour of Chinatown! Mike broke us into small groups and gave us personally designated directions to different places. My small group and I started our walk towards Canal Street and passed by different markets that showcased food such as live crabs and exotic fruits. I was surprised by the different varieties of culture beyond Chinese in the area. There were many different patches of Italian places in between our walk from the Tenement Museum to Canal Street. When we finally got to Canal Street, we were offered plenty of items to buy: watches, jewelry, scarves, and so much more! One of our classmates ended up buying a cellphone cover before heading over to our next destination. We ended up at The Eastern States Buddhist Temple of America on 64 Mott Street. Inside we saw many statues of Buddha on display (ENY, 77). It was the first Chinese Buddhist temple located on the East Coast when it was established in 1962 (Blue Guide, 112). There was a plethora of beautiful stones encased in necklaces, bracelets, statues, and other trinkets of worship. Another classmate ended up buying a beautiful jade necklace with the symbol for happiness! We finally make our way to the different food spots Mike recommends for us: Mai Li Wah Bakery, Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, and Vivi Bubble Tea. I decide to try the pork buns at the bakery, which end up being the best pork buns I’ve ever tried! I also take the risk at the Ice Cream Factory to try the Black Sesame and Lychee flavored ice cream. It was a risk worth taking because I fell in love with the flavor! We were very proud of ourselves on our way back to the meeting spot because we managed to find all the destinations Mike suggested to us.
Even though I was became full from the different snacks I tried in Chinatown, I made sure to make room for food at Congee village! I tried green tea, seafood in a pineapple, sesame chicken, pork patties, and noodles. I was glad I was able to try it all, I loved all the food!
It was a good thing we took a walking tour of the Lower East Side after lunch to walk off all the food! I was surprised to see Jim from our previous class when he gave us a tour of Central Harlem! He was again very knowledgeable of the LES as he is in Harlem. He showed us different tenements as well as the first settlement house from 1889 where Eleanor Roosevelt taught dance classes. Jim then took us to the Economy Candy store. It held different old brands of candies from before we were even born! It opened first in 1937 (ENY, 67). It was a treat to see all the sweets they offered.
Jim took our class by the Williamsburg Bridge. It was built to relieve density of the LES community heading to and from Brooklyn. It was deemed "Jews highway" because this was the largest community to be commuting on this bridge (ENY, 68). Continuing the Jewish theme, Jim took us to Bialystoker synagogue, named after a city in Russia. It used to be a Methodist church. I found the synagogue massive and sight for sore eyes in its Manhattan Schist material and great design. As we passed a few stores in line with each other, I found one looked much more antique than the others. It stood out because of its architecture. Jim explained the building was called a mikveh. The purpose of this building was to bathe Jewish women in specifically rainwater who were betrothed to a Jewish man. This was to purify the women prior to having relations with her future husband.
We then reach the Henry Street Settlement. The founder, Lillian Wald, had a huge impact in the healthcare field. At 25 years old, she created the Nurses’ Settlement in order to help immigrant women with the healthcare they were receiving. Wald accomplished this where she commenced a Visiting Nurse Service that was door to door service for the public (ENY, 69). She basically sent nurses to homes of people who needed help. She united the communities of uptown and downtown residents for the sake of healthcare. Regardless of their economic background, they deserved the assistance needed for their own health (Blue Guide, 125). Wald also was the founder of Columbia's school of nursing. She was an incredibly accomplished person beyond being a nurse. I aspire to be as accomplished as her when I graduate!
Jim took our class by the Williamsburg Bridge. It was built to relieve density of the LES community heading to and from Brooklyn. It was deemed "Jews highway" because this was the largest community to be commuting on this bridge (ENY, 68). Continuing the Jewish theme, Jim took us to Bialystoker synagogue, named after a city in Russia. It used to be a Methodist church. I found the synagogue massive and sight for sore eyes in its Manhattan Schist material and great design. As we passed a few stores in line with each other, I found one looked much more antique than the others. It stood out because of its architecture. Jim explained the building was called a mikveh. The purpose of this building was to bathe Jewish women in specifically rainwater who were betrothed to a Jewish man. This was to purify the women prior to having relations with her future husband.
We then reach the Henry Street Settlement. The founder, Lillian Wald, had a huge impact in the healthcare field. At 25 years old, she created the Nurses’ Settlement in order to help immigrant women with the healthcare they were receiving. Wald accomplished this where she commenced a Visiting Nurse Service that was door to door service for the public (ENY, 69). She basically sent nurses to homes of people who needed help. She united the communities of uptown and downtown residents for the sake of healthcare. Regardless of their economic background, they deserved the assistance needed for their own health (Blue Guide, 125). Wald also was the founder of Columbia's school of nursing. She was an incredibly accomplished person beyond being a nurse. I aspire to be as accomplished as her when I graduate!
Our final destination was the Eldridge Street Synagogue. I was glad it was saved for last because it was jaw dropping in how gorgeous it was! Built in1887, it held architectural designs based off Byzantine and Southern Spain elements. It was finished in light brick and white terra-cotta. I found it a shame the synagogue as not in use for so long. From the 1950s to 1986 the estate was in conditions unsuitable to hold masses of people. Finally in 2007 to the current day, it is in use as a museum (ENY, 72). As one of my favorite new sights, I have this place on my list to go inside to visit! I have had such a great experience in this class and have had my bucket list of places to go in New York City grow exponentially! I try not to be sad the class is over. Instead, I get excited for the new places I’ve found out about through this class and now have more leisurely time to spend there myself!
10/24/2014
Journal 9: New York State of Mind Pt. 2 (After the Class)
I find my mind is very open to new experiences so my depiction of New York City has certainly changed throughout the course of taking this Gotham City Class.
I still find the city just as beautiful and limitless as I did before I explored different places we’ve discovered. Even though I didn’t think it was possible, I found New York City to have more depth than before. The places Mike took us during class reconfirmed the beauty and elegance that surrounds one exploring the city, but we learned about the humble beginnings of these places too. It never occurred to me to look into the history of these new places and familiar places that I’ve frequented so many times before.
One of my favorite facts that stick out in my mind is about the Astor Place stop on the 6 line. The reason the mosaic tiles depict beavers in this station is because the founder, John Jacob Astor, began his successful career in fur trading- specifically with beavers!
I still find the city just as beautiful and limitless as I did before I explored different places we’ve discovered. Even though I didn’t think it was possible, I found New York City to have more depth than before. The places Mike took us during class reconfirmed the beauty and elegance that surrounds one exploring the city, but we learned about the humble beginnings of these places too. It never occurred to me to look into the history of these new places and familiar places that I’ve frequented so many times before.
One of my favorite facts that stick out in my mind is about the Astor Place stop on the 6 line. The reason the mosaic tiles depict beavers in this station is because the founder, John Jacob Astor, began his successful career in fur trading- specifically with beavers!
I am usually designated as a tour guide whenever I have relatives come from out of town or out of state. I feel so much more prepared as an efficient tour guide! I am now able to show off different places, riddled with fun facts about New York City architecture and landmarks that I previously did not know before! I'm also very excited for the newly discovered places that Mike has introduced to us. Sometimes with our class being so jam packed, we had very little time to truly appreciate our surroundings. Now, with my new knowledge of these wonderfully unique places, I can venture there on my own to truly explore the ins and outs of these beautiful structures!
I used to glorify New York City for its diverse people and heightened pace of movement. I’ve learned through this course to slow down, and sometimes actually stop, juts to appreciate simply the ground underneath me. There is an immense amount of history right under me and all these events that occurred in the past have manipulated the city into what we experience today. Everything that we have seen in class has been altered by something from a previous lifetime, sometimes before even our grandparents were born!
Another shocking process I found disturbingly prominent was the issue of gentrification. I was aware of its meaning before the class and I found it an interesting topic to talk about, but I was surprised in how it is effecting every area of New York City. It is a controversial issue that weighs whether it is altering the future face of New York City for the better or the worse. It is a challenge to find the balance between creating anew as a step into a more futuristic and modern society or holding onto antique buildings that give New York City the character it is known for. This article shows readers the true evolution of the buildings in the city: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/03/29/nyc-before-after_n_5049801.html
I recall a class when we went to the Museum of the City of New York in East Harlem and we watched a 15 minute film on the evolution of New York City way back from the 1600s to the present day. It truly blew my mind as I saw the landscape of New York City was once pure farmland. It was incomprehensible and yet the experience of watching the film made me humble about my pride of New York City. There were countless people that put in so much work and effort into making this place the greatest city in the world that it represents today.
My main appreciation of New York City was the diverse outlets given, each being strong and bold. The communities that belong to these outlets really put their heart into wheat they believe in. A great example that I had the honor of witnessing was when the class went into a community garden during an open celebration. This proved to me the true appreciation of the land through the combination of power of the people, all simply for the love of their city! There are so many avenues and outlets in which New York City inhabitants pour their passion into in order to create a better future for city residents, I only hope in my lifetime I will be able to contribute to such a magnificent city and shape this city for the better.