Journals 1-4
Journal 1: Impressions of New York (6/3)
As a person living on Long Island, it's hard to escape the question, "How often do you go to the city? You must go all the time." I've encountered this question many times from out of state and international friends, and almost every times my answer (which is, "a couple time a year") invokes the response of, "What! It's the greatest city in the world, the Big Apple! And you live right around the corner- what do you mean you only go a few times a year!"
What those friends fail to realize is that, although a New Yorker at heart, I am not a city girl.
To me, my impression of New York City is not an entirely great one. I don't mind going in for a concert every so often, but the idea of the cost and hassle of getting in, the expense of transportation and food, and navigating the confusing grid system that "true" New Yorkers claim "makes so much sense" is just too overwhelming. I prefer the familiar streets of Suffolk, and would prefer a drive to Montauk over a train to the city any day.
Although I don't personally particularly like the city, I do understand and appreciate it's historical significance, it's rich story, and it's relevance and importance to our world today.
As we begin this class and embark on our learning journey I greatly anticipate that which we will be learning as a class. I I look forward to diving into New York's history and learning about how it came to be. I am truly hoping I can finally master the grid system and figure out how to get around on my own (As opposed to seeking directions from questionable bystanders).
I can't wait to see how this class reshapes my impressions of New York City. I will be sure to get as much as I can out of the time we share together.
As a person living on Long Island, it's hard to escape the question, "How often do you go to the city? You must go all the time." I've encountered this question many times from out of state and international friends, and almost every times my answer (which is, "a couple time a year") invokes the response of, "What! It's the greatest city in the world, the Big Apple! And you live right around the corner- what do you mean you only go a few times a year!"
What those friends fail to realize is that, although a New Yorker at heart, I am not a city girl.
To me, my impression of New York City is not an entirely great one. I don't mind going in for a concert every so often, but the idea of the cost and hassle of getting in, the expense of transportation and food, and navigating the confusing grid system that "true" New Yorkers claim "makes so much sense" is just too overwhelming. I prefer the familiar streets of Suffolk, and would prefer a drive to Montauk over a train to the city any day.
Although I don't personally particularly like the city, I do understand and appreciate it's historical significance, it's rich story, and it's relevance and importance to our world today.
As we begin this class and embark on our learning journey I greatly anticipate that which we will be learning as a class. I I look forward to diving into New York's history and learning about how it came to be. I am truly hoping I can finally master the grid system and figure out how to get around on my own (As opposed to seeking directions from questionable bystanders).
I can't wait to see how this class reshapes my impressions of New York City. I will be sure to get as much as I can out of the time we share together.
Journal 2: Quixotic Queens (6/5)
What an exciting first day we had! I must say, I enjoyed myself so much this Thursday. Exploring and learning about the history of so many landmark places in Queens was so eye opening and fun! We covered so much through our 11 mile journey; where do I start?! It seems the answer to this would be, "from the beginning "!
What an exciting first day we had! I must say, I enjoyed myself so much this Thursday. Exploring and learning about the history of so many landmark places in Queens was so eye opening and fun! We covered so much through our 11 mile journey; where do I start?! It seems the answer to this would be, "from the beginning "!
Dan and I on the LIRR!
We began our day by pulling into the iconic Penn Station. As I got off the train I can only describe my feelings as an interesting bouquet of emotion. I was relieved to finally be arriving at the station after a stressful 25 minute delay on the LIRR (still have to get used to public transportation)! I was confused, as I left my glasses at home and wasn't able to find the group for a good 5 or 6 minutes in the Penn Station crowd (According to ENY, 600,000 passengers pass through Penn every day! What a crowd! [p. 29])! I was also nervous, because I didn't yet know what to expect from the course, but I must say, my excitement and anticipation for what was to come definitely took center stage in my emotions that morning.
Once our group assembled, we got ourselves together and made our way to an inconspicuous corner of the station. Here we opened our day with a discussion of the history and present importance of Penn Station. We learned about the original Penn station, which, according to ENY, was built in 1910 by McKim, Mead, and White (p. 30). As we turned together to the picture of the 1910 Penn Station in the book, I was amazed! I have never known anything other than the present-day Penn Station, and I was taken aback by how beautiful it used to be! I still can't believe such a beautiful piece of historical architecture was demolished! Despite protests from New Yorkers in 1963, the meticulously constructed and designed building was torn down and "modernized" (ENY, p. 30).
Once our group assembled, we got ourselves together and made our way to an inconspicuous corner of the station. Here we opened our day with a discussion of the history and present importance of Penn Station. We learned about the original Penn station, which, according to ENY, was built in 1910 by McKim, Mead, and White (p. 30). As we turned together to the picture of the 1910 Penn Station in the book, I was amazed! I have never known anything other than the present-day Penn Station, and I was taken aback by how beautiful it used to be! I still can't believe such a beautiful piece of historical architecture was demolished! Despite protests from New Yorkers in 1963, the meticulously constructed and designed building was torn down and "modernized" (ENY, p. 30).
Penn Station c. 1911
Photo: npr.org
Together we discussed the modern day Penn, and highlighted some of its positives and negatives. A great positive (in my opinion) was the construction of the Madison Square Garden. I have a soft spot in my heart for the Madison Square Garden. I've been able to see some of my favorite artists there; Leonard Cohen, Billy Joel, Andrea Bocelli, etc.
Some of the negatives we talked about were so interesting! I never thought about how Penn doesn't have a central lobby, and how oddly laid-out and confusing it is! But after talking about that, I came to realize that Penn really doesn't have a well-formulated, sensical layout!
Our conversation then turned to Grand Central Terminal (commonly mistakenly referred to as "Grand Central Station" [ENY, p.48]). We talked about our impressions of Grand Central (historic, beautiful, meticulous design, shopping mall, food court/restaurants). Almost everyone agreed that Grand Central was a much more desirable place to be. We took our mental snapshots of Penn and swiftly made our way to that iconic Neo-Classic Terminal on 42nd street. Upon entering Grand Central we were greeted by a beautiful, shining marble interior - A much different impression than hot, stuffy Penn! We walked around the main lobby, admired the beautiful ceiling artwork (which, as Don mentioned, was drawn from "God's perspective" as if looking down from the heavens to Earth, which is opposite of what man would see when he looks up to the sky). We also took note of the beautiful facade of Grand Central; noting the clock and the gods surrounding it. We identified Mercury (the god of commerce), Minerva (god of wisdom), and Hercules(god of strength) (ENY, p. 50).
Some of the negatives we talked about were so interesting! I never thought about how Penn doesn't have a central lobby, and how oddly laid-out and confusing it is! But after talking about that, I came to realize that Penn really doesn't have a well-formulated, sensical layout!
Our conversation then turned to Grand Central Terminal (commonly mistakenly referred to as "Grand Central Station" [ENY, p.48]). We talked about our impressions of Grand Central (historic, beautiful, meticulous design, shopping mall, food court/restaurants). Almost everyone agreed that Grand Central was a much more desirable place to be. We took our mental snapshots of Penn and swiftly made our way to that iconic Neo-Classic Terminal on 42nd street. Upon entering Grand Central we were greeted by a beautiful, shining marble interior - A much different impression than hot, stuffy Penn! We walked around the main lobby, admired the beautiful ceiling artwork (which, as Don mentioned, was drawn from "God's perspective" as if looking down from the heavens to Earth, which is opposite of what man would see when he looks up to the sky). We also took note of the beautiful facade of Grand Central; noting the clock and the gods surrounding it. We identified Mercury (the god of commerce), Minerva (god of wisdom), and Hercules(god of strength) (ENY, p. 50).
Mercury, Minerva, Hercules
Photo: Pablo Costa Tirado
Our discussion turned to how Grand Central Terminal almost befell the same fate as Penn Station. Apparently Jacqueline Kennedy led a fierce fight in 1968 to save the historic station from the same fate as Penn (ENY, p. 50). She led a campaign which resulted in Grand Central's recognition as a "landmark" (ENY, p. 50). Fortunately, at the time new landmark preservation laws were put into place as a result of the fierce backlash from Penn station's demolition (ENY, p. 31). Although these laws came after Penn Station was sacrificed, they certainly did play a great role in saving Grand Central from that same fate.
So we looked around, took our pictures, talked about the history of Grand central, and made our way outside to observe the buildings around us.
The first building we looked at was the Chrysler Building.
This building was constructed in an art-deco style, and its designers took inspiration from the design of the Chrysler automobile (ENY, p. 51). When I walked into the building, I was immediately aware of what a special place we were in. The Lobby was made of beautiful, shining African wood. The art-deco/automobile-inspired theme was strong, the ceiling was lined with a beautiful mural ("Transport and Human Endeavor, by Edward Trumbull) which artfully depicted the process of progress and transport. We learned that the Chrysler building had the short-lived reputation of being the "tallest building in the world" from 1930 to 1931 (ENY, p. 51).
So we looked around, took our pictures, talked about the history of Grand central, and made our way outside to observe the buildings around us.
The first building we looked at was the Chrysler Building.
This building was constructed in an art-deco style, and its designers took inspiration from the design of the Chrysler automobile (ENY, p. 51). When I walked into the building, I was immediately aware of what a special place we were in. The Lobby was made of beautiful, shining African wood. The art-deco/automobile-inspired theme was strong, the ceiling was lined with a beautiful mural ("Transport and Human Endeavor, by Edward Trumbull) which artfully depicted the process of progress and transport. We learned that the Chrysler building had the short-lived reputation of being the "tallest building in the world" from 1930 to 1931 (ENY, p. 51).
Chrysler building
While admiring the Chrysler's exterior, the topic of "setbacks" was introduced.
Setbacks were part of a zoning law put into place in 1916. Setbacks were made mandatory in large, tall buildings and served as a way to allow light and air to reach the streets of the City.
The Chrysler building was a perfect example of this concept! The setbacks are clear to see even on the ornamental building crown.
Setbacks were part of a zoning law put into place in 1916. Setbacks were made mandatory in large, tall buildings and served as a way to allow light and air to reach the streets of the City.
The Chrysler building was a perfect example of this concept! The setbacks are clear to see even on the ornamental building crown.
Visual example of setbacks.
Photo: skyscraper.org
Continuing on our way through mid town we came upon the Daily News Building, which was an excellent example of the evolution of Art Deco in New York's building design. This building was actually considered the first flat top Art Deco building. It also houses the biggest indoor globe in the world (ENY, p. 52). When we went inside the lobby we were able to quickly look at that globe. It sat right in the middle of the lobby, beautifully maintained and spinning along slowly as if it were taken straight from orbit.
From there we walked our way south, passing the GE Building (which was also Art-Deco style) (ENY, p. 52). This building was crowned with spires, and is easily the most unique building I had seen that day. We then passed the Waldorf-Astoria hotel, which was certainly the most luxurious and decadent hotel I have ever had the chance to see. I was so relieved when we got there, because I REALLY had to use the bathroom!! And let me say, this was the most beautiful bathroom I have ever had the pleasure of using. Well, maybe I just really had to go (quite some time had passed since Penn and I was ready to go!) But in all seriousness, the building, design, structure, decadence-- it was all incredible. I can only imagine what it must be like to spend a night there.
Chandelier in the bathroom.
So, onward we walked until we reached the Seagrams building between 52nd and 53rd street. This building stood in stark contrast to the others we had seen at this point. The Seagrams building was modeled in the International Style. There were no setbacks (the presence of a courtyard means that a building does not need setbacks).
Personally, I don't care for this style of building. To me, it comes across as too utilitarian and lacks inspiration. It seems like a standard rectangle-block, and though I see how and why this style is used in cities, I much prefer buildings where you can clearly see the architects hand in its design.
Personally, I don't care for this style of building. To me, it comes across as too utilitarian and lacks inspiration. It seems like a standard rectangle-block, and though I see how and why this style is used in cities, I much prefer buildings where you can clearly see the architects hand in its design.
Just opposite of the Seagrams building we noted the post-modern design of a building (whose name escapes me). This building had a beautiful, almost eclectic-ness to it. I really appreciated that, and felt it was a lovely addition to the NYC landscape. We discussed the idea of post-modernistic architecture design, and how it doesn't "follow rules" or have any specific mold to form to. I quite liked this idea, and am excited to see more of it as we continue to explore the city.
After all of our observation of architecture, and learning about trains and stations, our class took a different turn. We began our trek to Roosevelt Island. Thankfully, we didn't have to walk there- we took the Roosevelt Island Tram. That in itself was such an adventure!
When we got to the island I was surprised- it seemed so nice! But at the same time I almost felt like we entered the Twilight Zone-- there were so few people around! We walked along the water and really just took in the horizon, the sun, the breeze. It was great! I think that was my favorite part of the day. It was on this island that we learned about the process of Gentrification.
According to Merriam-Webster, gentrification is a shift in an urban community toward wealthier residents and/or businesses and increasing property values. Apparently, for a long while, Roosevelt Island was not a very popular or desirable place to be. The isolated location of the island made it the perfect place to house a Polio/smallpox ward, so , for the time when these diseases were running rampant, those who were suffering were brought over to the Island to, essentially, die.
For a time, the island also housed a penitentiary. I'll admit, that background was pretty creepy to think about, that plus the abandoned hospitals and buildings we came across here and there were pretty weird, especially since they stood in stark contrast to the beautifully maintained walkways and foliage.
Interestingly, Roosevelt Island also housed the first nursing school in the United States. As a nursing student, I felt a connection to this building as we walked past it. Although creepy and decrepit, I still felt it emitted some sort of energy, which I readily identified with. What a humble beginning we, as nurses, had. I was reminded of the struggles nurses had to overcome before being recognized as one of the most popular present day professions.
As we came to the end of the island, we were greeted by the stoic face of Franklin Delano Roosevelt himself. We walked up a set of stairs and looked down to see how the green and trees converged together to resemble the bough of a great ship. As we walked toward the face, we noted the landmark Coca-Cola sign across the river, and Chelsea and I stopped to take a selfie :)
When we got to the island I was surprised- it seemed so nice! But at the same time I almost felt like we entered the Twilight Zone-- there were so few people around! We walked along the water and really just took in the horizon, the sun, the breeze. It was great! I think that was my favorite part of the day. It was on this island that we learned about the process of Gentrification.
According to Merriam-Webster, gentrification is a shift in an urban community toward wealthier residents and/or businesses and increasing property values. Apparently, for a long while, Roosevelt Island was not a very popular or desirable place to be. The isolated location of the island made it the perfect place to house a Polio/smallpox ward, so , for the time when these diseases were running rampant, those who were suffering were brought over to the Island to, essentially, die.
For a time, the island also housed a penitentiary. I'll admit, that background was pretty creepy to think about, that plus the abandoned hospitals and buildings we came across here and there were pretty weird, especially since they stood in stark contrast to the beautifully maintained walkways and foliage.
Interestingly, Roosevelt Island also housed the first nursing school in the United States. As a nursing student, I felt a connection to this building as we walked past it. Although creepy and decrepit, I still felt it emitted some sort of energy, which I readily identified with. What a humble beginning we, as nurses, had. I was reminded of the struggles nurses had to overcome before being recognized as one of the most popular present day professions.
As we came to the end of the island, we were greeted by the stoic face of Franklin Delano Roosevelt himself. We walked up a set of stairs and looked down to see how the green and trees converged together to resemble the bough of a great ship. As we walked toward the face, we noted the landmark Coca-Cola sign across the river, and Chelsea and I stopped to take a selfie :)
Leaving the Island, we descended quite a few flights of escalators and made our way on the subway, back to Queens. We popped out of the metro and ended up in Astoria. This is where our excursion took a more art-centered focus.
I never knew that Queens was the home of Paramount Studios! I never knew about Kaufman Astoria Studios, or that it was the where my favorite movie (Men in Black) was produced! (ENY, p. 146). As we were learning this we were walking along 35th Ave. Eventually we arrived at a seemingly inconspicuous building which housed the Museum of the Moving Image. At first, this museum did not seem like much, but I soon saw how wrong I was.
According to Exploring New York, the three story museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Queens, as it houses one of the "largest collections of film artifacts in the world" (p. 147). I was impressed by the size, and found the artifacts interesting, but overall I was not enthralled with the place. Perhaps it's because I'm really not interested in films, movies, film making or production. I'm sure if I was a film-person I would have been in heaven! My favorite part of this museum was the second floor, which held many different costumes, make up, prosthetics and video games.
I never knew that Queens was the home of Paramount Studios! I never knew about Kaufman Astoria Studios, or that it was the where my favorite movie (Men in Black) was produced! (ENY, p. 146). As we were learning this we were walking along 35th Ave. Eventually we arrived at a seemingly inconspicuous building which housed the Museum of the Moving Image. At first, this museum did not seem like much, but I soon saw how wrong I was.
According to Exploring New York, the three story museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Queens, as it houses one of the "largest collections of film artifacts in the world" (p. 147). I was impressed by the size, and found the artifacts interesting, but overall I was not enthralled with the place. Perhaps it's because I'm really not interested in films, movies, film making or production. I'm sure if I was a film-person I would have been in heaven! My favorite part of this museum was the second floor, which held many different costumes, make up, prosthetics and video games.
Lights from Museum of the Moving Image.
After this stop, we continued to our last destination, Long Island City. The first place we stopped in Long Island City was the MoMA PS1. I have been to a few galleries and art shows in my time, and although we didn't get to spend much time in the exhibits, I can definitely say this place has the potential to become one of my favorite places. I know I will be heading back there on my own time when I can! We learned about its history as a 19th century school building (ENY, p. 148).
The look and feel of a public school was maintained, and it was so unexpected and amazing to see how the classrooms were transformed into art exhibitions. I loved the grungy architecture and feel inside the different stairwells and hallways. The floors creaked and squeaked with each step, only enhancing that high-school feel. As we walked through the building, I tried to imagine myself as a student back in the 1950's while the school was still a functioning school. I feel as though that museum maintained such a delicate balance of being out of place, but at the same time exactly where it should be. I don't know if you can follow what I'm getting at, but it really had that public-school feel.
When approaching the "classrooms" I expected to see desks, students, blackboards. But each time you peeked through the great, heavy doors that lined the corridor, you would see beautiful, wild, even controversial pieces of art hanging on those walls.
The look and feel of a public school was maintained, and it was so unexpected and amazing to see how the classrooms were transformed into art exhibitions. I loved the grungy architecture and feel inside the different stairwells and hallways. The floors creaked and squeaked with each step, only enhancing that high-school feel. As we walked through the building, I tried to imagine myself as a student back in the 1950's while the school was still a functioning school. I feel as though that museum maintained such a delicate balance of being out of place, but at the same time exactly where it should be. I don't know if you can follow what I'm getting at, but it really had that public-school feel.
When approaching the "classrooms" I expected to see desks, students, blackboards. But each time you peeked through the great, heavy doors that lined the corridor, you would see beautiful, wild, even controversial pieces of art hanging on those walls.
As we wrapped up our time at the gallery, I was surprised to see it was close to 6:00 already! The time truly did fly.
We made our way back towards the East River, where we all sat down in Gantry Plaza State Park. We discussed our experiences that day, and did a little relaxing before rushing back to Penn. I was so surprised to turn a corner and see where we were---Right behind the Pepsi-Cola sign!
I remember only a few hours ago, looking across the East River and admiring the sign from a far. How did we end up all the way over here? As this ran through my head, I felt a sharp pain in my foot. I immediately felt the weight my feet had been carrying all day. "Oh right," I thought "that's how". All that walking had brought us, quite literally, full circle. As we finished up at Gantry I snapped a few last pictures and said a silent prayer of relief, "Thank you GOD for getting me through this day!"
We made our way back towards the East River, where we all sat down in Gantry Plaza State Park. We discussed our experiences that day, and did a little relaxing before rushing back to Penn. I was so surprised to turn a corner and see where we were---Right behind the Pepsi-Cola sign!
I remember only a few hours ago, looking across the East River and admiring the sign from a far. How did we end up all the way over here? As this ran through my head, I felt a sharp pain in my foot. I immediately felt the weight my feet had been carrying all day. "Oh right," I thought "that's how". All that walking had brought us, quite literally, full circle. As we finished up at Gantry I snapped a few last pictures and said a silent prayer of relief, "Thank you GOD for getting me through this day!"
Upon returning to Penn, I caught my train (barely made it!) and sat down. After a stretch and deep breath, I plugged my headphones in and reflected on the day's events. What a day it was! So much walking, so much talking and learning. I couldn't believe the first day was over. As I drifted in and out of sleep I thought to myself, "Wow, I can't wait for next week".
Journal 3: Bodacious Brooklyn (6/10)
Brooklyn! Where to begin!? What a fun day it was reconnecting with my family's hometown.
We began the day with a looong train ride to Brooklyn's Coney Island.
We began the day with a looong train ride to Brooklyn's Coney Island.
I did not expect to learn about such an incredible history behind this "island" (actually a peninsula!) At one time, it was a true island, but would not be considered so anymore, as it was filled in the 20th century. The first thing that surprised me about Coney Island was the evolution of its name. From Narrioch (the name given to it by the Lenape meaning "the place without shadows") to Conye Eylandt (17th century Dutch name) to finally settling at Coney Island (ENY, p.115). I was so intrigued to learn that its name to this day goes back to the British word "coney" being a colloquial term for "rabbit" (ENY p. 116). There truly must have been a lot of rabbits if that's what the island is named after!
In the 1800's one would have to do quite a bit of traveling to arrive at this popular location. A common route might be to take a ferry across the East River, a stage coach across Brooklyn, and then a ferry to get to the actual destination. What a trip! Towards the later 19th century, trains allowed the island to be more accessible.
In the 1800's one would have to do quite a bit of traveling to arrive at this popular location. A common route might be to take a ferry across the East River, a stage coach across Brooklyn, and then a ferry to get to the actual destination. What a trip! Towards the later 19th century, trains allowed the island to be more accessible.
For a decent amount of time, Coney Island was a beautiful, popular destination-spot. The place to be in the heat of the summer. It first became a major tourist destination after the Civil war. When steam railroads were electrified and connected Brooklyn to Manhattan, the island turned into a great place where New Yorkers could spend the day (ENY, p. 116). According to Exploring New York, "by the 1920s Coney Island became New York's most important summer amusement area, with thrilling rides and weird side shows" (116).
I couldn't believe everything I had learned about its history! The Coney Island that I'm familiar with is the post-war Coney Island. As the popularity of automobiles increased, New Yorkers opted to travel to Long Island beaches (Jones beach, Robert Moses, etc) to spend a summer day, and less and less people went to Coney Island (ENY, p. 116). As fewer people came to the island, the economy took a hit, and after a series of fires and the closing of attractions, Coney Island lost its appeal and ability to draw people in (ENY, p. 116).
The Coney Island I know about is the one my parents have told me about. Each of them grew up in the 60s and 70s, and they knew to stay away from the place. Coney Island was a dirty, decaying place that no one wanted to visit. According to Mike, the 1970s were, essentially, the peak of this degeneration.
If you asked me, I would say that I don't know if Coney Island has completely recovered from that era. The moment we stepped foot in the sunlight, I could tell something was off about the place. It seemed so run-down, abandoned, and uncared for. The buildings looked washed-out, a lot of them were closed down and abandoned. It was all very...weird.
As per Carla's suggestion, we stopped into Grimaldi's for a pizza lunch. The interior of this place was very nice! Beautiful brick walls, historic photos, clean tables. It stood in stark contrast to what we saw outside. Oh, and the pizza was incredible!!
The Coney Island I know about is the one my parents have told me about. Each of them grew up in the 60s and 70s, and they knew to stay away from the place. Coney Island was a dirty, decaying place that no one wanted to visit. According to Mike, the 1970s were, essentially, the peak of this degeneration.
If you asked me, I would say that I don't know if Coney Island has completely recovered from that era. The moment we stepped foot in the sunlight, I could tell something was off about the place. It seemed so run-down, abandoned, and uncared for. The buildings looked washed-out, a lot of them were closed down and abandoned. It was all very...weird.
As per Carla's suggestion, we stopped into Grimaldi's for a pizza lunch. The interior of this place was very nice! Beautiful brick walls, historic photos, clean tables. It stood in stark contrast to what we saw outside. Oh, and the pizza was incredible!!
After eating our pizza, Chelsea, Carla and I ran off to the famous Cyclone roller coaster (probably should have been the other way around!) In my mind I was thinking "I've been on hundreds of roller coasters, this one can't be that bad". As we approached the old wooden thing, my mind started changing. We could hear it creaking from a hundred feet away! We soon discovered that this coaster had been built in 1927 (ENY, p. 117). Wait... 1927?! That's an 87 year old roller coaster! What did they know about roller coaster building 87 years ago?? Oh my goodness how quickly my mind turned on me! Instead of "this won't be so bad", all I could think was "GET OUT GET OUT GET OUT". But it was too late! I was in too deep! I had to commit. As I checked my bag and sat down I couldn't help but wonder, if I was thrown off the coaster, would anyone steal my bag? Haha.
Fortunately, I made it through. I got whiplash, I was thrown from one side of the cart to the other, and I almost enjoyed that pizza a second time. But I got through it, and now I can proudly fasten on my "New Yorker" badge and say that I rode the Coney Island Cyclone.
Fortunately, I made it through. I got whiplash, I was thrown from one side of the cart to the other, and I almost enjoyed that pizza a second time. But I got through it, and now I can proudly fasten on my "New Yorker" badge and say that I rode the Coney Island Cyclone.
After our interesting morning at Coney Island, we headed back on that looong train ride back into mainland Brooklyn. Our next stop was a really cool place, The New York Transit Museum. This was such a cool place! I really loved every minute there. This museum was an old refurbished 1930s shuttle that was dedicated to the history of mass transportation in New York (ENY, p. 125). What a cool, historic museum. I'm sure if I was a subway-lover I would appreciate it even more, too! My favorite part was the trains at the lower level. It was so cool to walk through the different trains; it felt like we were walking through history one car at a time. Each one was a snapshot into what life was like for the commuting individual in that era. I particularly loved the 1907 train. Its beautifully detailed exterior so wonderfully complemented the carefully designed interior. I loved the wicker seating and gorgeous glass windows. The seats were pretty comfortable, and such a nice layout! I noticed that it seemed like the interior did not change much from the early 1900s to the 1950s. They all had that similar wicker seating and seat arrangement. I saw some subtle changes, like the design of the doors and the exteriors, but other than that, it wasn't always easy to distinguish a 1920 train from a 1940 train. I would love to come back here and take my family some day. I could see my father really enjoying himself here!
After the Transit Museum, we took a long walk through Brooklyn Heights. It seemed like there were churches everywhere we turned! According to Mike, this was a result of 19th century gentrification. As the wealthy moved into the heights, they needed churches to accommodate their more religious lifestyles. As a result, we now have the Church of St. Ann, the Church of the Savior, and the Spencer Memorial Church to name a few.
We later saw the building for the Brooklyn Historical Society. Interestingly, it was once known as the Long Island society, but because it has become more regionally-focused, it is now just Brooklyn. I loved the exterior of this building. It featured the busts of Benjamin Franklin and Christopher Columbus. We also ran through the Chase building's lobby, which boasts the title of the "most beautiful lobby in New York" - and it sure did live up to the title!
One we finished up there, we breaked for a snack, then came back to walk through the beautiful neighborhoods of Brooklyn. We stopped and admired the gorgeous Brownstone buildings there, the prices of which are astronomical. I must say as much as I loved walking through that neighborhood, I also hated knowing I could never live like that. Ah well, each person has their own way of living. I'm sure some of these people might say the same thing were they walking through Cold Spring Harbor or the Hamptons.
Regardless of how I felt, the buildings are undeniably, undoubtedly beautiful. To spend even an afternoon in one would be a privilege!
Regardless of how I felt, the buildings are undeniably, undoubtedly beautiful. To spend even an afternoon in one would be a privilege!
The best part of the day came at the very end, when we got to walk over the Brooklyn Bridge. I love this bridge! And have some very fond memories of walking over it with my boyfriend. So of course, it was odd walking without him, but a wonderful experience nonetheless. I will never get tired of the unique views and refreshing breeze that accompany a trip over this historical landmark. I must say, this was the perfect way to end the day.
After crossing the bridge, a small group of us Long Island-ers were left to find our way back to Penn Station. Fortunately, with the help of some very friendly locals and a rudimentary understanding of how the subways work, we were able to navigate our way back to "home base". That was probably the most adventurous part of our day, actually. I think we took the longest way possible to get there, but get there we did! I even had time to get my favorite iced tea from Starbucks :)
I made my 7:22 train, just in time (would have been safer without the iced tea, but I definitely enjoyed it on that long ride home). We had a great day in Brooklyn, and I couldn't wait to share about it with my family.
I made my 7:22 train, just in time (would have been safer without the iced tea, but I definitely enjoyed it on that long ride home). We had a great day in Brooklyn, and I couldn't wait to share about it with my family.
Journal 4: Chelsea and The Village (6/12)
Chelsea! I was so excited to finally dedicate an afternoon here! I must say I had the song Chelsea Hotel no.2 by Leonard Cohen playing in my head all morning. What an excellent day it was!
When we arrived in Chelsea we had a quick discussion of our first impressions. What did I think about it? It was definitely an industrial-looking place. Perhaps it was because we were immediately greeted with construction crews and lifts and cranes. Apparently I wasn't too off, we learned that Chelsea became a heavily industrialized area in 1847, when the Hudson River Railroad laid tracks through it (ENY, p 94). Similarly to other areas we have studied, Chelsea was at one point a land of cheap spaces (factories, taxi garages, etc). These spaces were bought for cheap by artists, authors etc, and transformed into art galleries and high end hotels.
When we arrived in Chelsea we had a quick discussion of our first impressions. What did I think about it? It was definitely an industrial-looking place. Perhaps it was because we were immediately greeted with construction crews and lifts and cranes. Apparently I wasn't too off, we learned that Chelsea became a heavily industrialized area in 1847, when the Hudson River Railroad laid tracks through it (ENY, p 94). Similarly to other areas we have studied, Chelsea was at one point a land of cheap spaces (factories, taxi garages, etc). These spaces were bought for cheap by artists, authors etc, and transformed into art galleries and high end hotels.
As a person who loves nature and the great outdoors, I really appreciated this mornings walk through the High Line. Being surrounded by all of the indigenous plants, and being accompanied by a beautiful, warm sunshine are the two ingredients to a perfect morning. So, a perfect morning it was. Until this day I had never even heard of the High Line. When Mike told us about this elevated once-used freight line, and how a community group fought to save the structure and transform it (ENY, p. 94), I was totally taken in. I had to see what this place was! What I saw was so much more than I expected. This was no small garden, this was a true landmark park. The beauty and color at home there are hard to put into words--Thank God for cameras :) Don was right, this was a place of beauty and art.
As we crossed, Mike pointed out Jean Nouvel's condominium complex, just north of us. This complex was so interesting looking. We found out that the design had been inspired by the "compound eyes of an insect" (ENY, p. 96). How cool is that! I can't say that would be the first thing I thought of by looking at the structure, but when I was told that was its inspiration, I could totally see it.
We then took a walk through a few interesting art galleries. I must say, it wasn't my favorite type of art. It seemed a little... surface. I prefer art that calls you to sit and reflect. Some pieces we saw were very beautiful, others were nice, and some were "eh". I don't often have negative things to say regarding others artwork. To them, it's their life and passion, and I would hate to pass negative judgement on something so dear to them just because it doesn't necessarily speak to me. To each his own, I suppose. Overall, I did not connect with any of the pieces we saw, but I did appreciate and value their beauty and the work each artist put into them.
After doing a bit of "gallery hopping", we made our way past a few blooming gardens. The Jefferson Market Garden, had an interesting history. Once a food market, if was turned into a woman's house of detention (ENY, p. 102). We peeked in the garden and took a look at the lovely red brick Jefferson Market Library. Both were such beautiful places, I would love to go back and spend some time learning more about such a historically-rich place.
When we were finished admiring the gardens and buildings, we were able to (FINALLY) stop for lunch. We were STARVING! Chelsea, Carla and I stopped at a little Mexican place, La Bambolea. We were not impressed. After waiting too long for food that was too mediocre, we left with just enough time to grab a cup of gas--- I mean, coffee.
After lunch came my favorite part of the day; the Merchant's House Museum. I loved this place. Luckily, I was part of a good, attentive, respectful group, and we had a great time. The house was SO interesting, and so full of history and stories.
The Merchant House was a "wonderfully preserved Federal-style house, filled with period furnishings and decorations" (ENY, p.110).
We spent our time learning about Seabury Tredwell and his family. We learned about his life and his children, and how they lived on a day to day basis. I tried to imagine what it must have been like to live in a time period like that, where people would stop by your stoop to leave you their card, or be brought in to sit in a sitting parlor decked out with all sorts of fancy decorations and flashy accouterment.
My impression of the Tredwells is that they were not quite as wealthy as they wanted their neighbors and friends to think. It seemed as though they put a lot of effort into keeping up with appearances. I also thought it was so odd that husband and wife had separate beds! I know that was a custom that had been around for a very long time, even up into the 1940s! But I just can't wrap my head around that!
Ah well, life was very different back then, that's for sure.
After lunch came my favorite part of the day; the Merchant's House Museum. I loved this place. Luckily, I was part of a good, attentive, respectful group, and we had a great time. The house was SO interesting, and so full of history and stories.
The Merchant House was a "wonderfully preserved Federal-style house, filled with period furnishings and decorations" (ENY, p.110).
We spent our time learning about Seabury Tredwell and his family. We learned about his life and his children, and how they lived on a day to day basis. I tried to imagine what it must have been like to live in a time period like that, where people would stop by your stoop to leave you their card, or be brought in to sit in a sitting parlor decked out with all sorts of fancy decorations and flashy accouterment.
My impression of the Tredwells is that they were not quite as wealthy as they wanted their neighbors and friends to think. It seemed as though they put a lot of effort into keeping up with appearances. I also thought it was so odd that husband and wife had separate beds! I know that was a custom that had been around for a very long time, even up into the 1940s! But I just can't wrap my head around that!
Ah well, life was very different back then, that's for sure.
After the Merchent's House Museum, we left and went walking. We soon came upon the Cooper Union Foundation building. We learned about how this was the first steel-frame building, and housed the first elevator shaft--without elevators (at the time)!! The Cooper Union was a free university at the time. They recently constructed a new, post-modern building. To put them together shows a stark contrast between the two time periods and styles. Though both are equally beautiful, they are so drastically different as far as design goes. Pretty cool! (Also shown are pictures of the new building's lobby, designed to mimic a bee-hive, when full of hustling and bustling students)
We also spent some time today in Washington Square Park. How nice was this place! I loved White's architecture here, the detailed arch, the two depictions of George Washington; one at war and one as president, were perfect additions to the park. It was a very nice place to be, although it did have a very rocky, dark past as a home of prostitutes and trouble. I believe that today it stands as a nice, safe addition to New York.
As we wrapped up our day, we had to stop at this ice cream place Mike kept talking about. What did you say Mike? The Big Gay Ice Cream Shop?? Yes that was right. What an interesting place! The extravagance and uniqueness of their ice cream definitely lived up to the uniqueness of their name! I was debating wether or not I should get that "Salty Pimp" Mike kept talking about. But I went my own way, and got a delicious salted-pretzel ice cream. Oh my goodness, I will never have another ice cream as long as I live! That place was incredible!
So, Chelsea was a pretty good place to be! Was it my favorite day? No, I don't think so. But I did thoroughly enjoy the time we spent there, the things we learned, and the places we saw. I really appreciated the High Line, I would definitely say that was the highlight of my day. The ice cream was a close runner-up though! I'm really looking forward for what this next week of class will hold! I feel like now that I'm getting used to the layout of the day, I'll be able to enjoy the content of what we do more. I love the walking, talking and having fun that we do, and I think that really helps the learning take place! I love talking about what we did that day with my girls as we make our way back to Penn. Reflecting on our days together is always an enjoyable experience, and helps solidify in my mind the things I learned that day.
I will say, I think we would benefit from doing something similar to what we did the first day, where we sat down together at the end to talk about our thoughts and impressions from the day. I think a quick few minute talk would do a lot of good. Wether or not we do that in the future, I still anticipate greatly the things we are going to see and experience as we continue on in this Gotham: Exploring NYC course.
I will say, I think we would benefit from doing something similar to what we did the first day, where we sat down together at the end to talk about our thoughts and impressions from the day. I think a quick few minute talk would do a lot of good. Wether or not we do that in the future, I still anticipate greatly the things we are going to see and experience as we continue on in this Gotham: Exploring NYC course.