#Lexington Avenue line

[wanderingnewyork]

From 2021: A No. 6 train enters the #14th_Street_Union_Square_Station, #Manhattan.

[fishmech]

out and about

[bancaishi]

a miscellaneous collection of art deco architecture from manhattan, drawn for class. text transcription below the cut

1. Empire State Building (20 West 34th Street)

2. Fuller Building (595 Madison Avenue)

3. Midtown Theater (2626 Broadway)

4. Graybar Building (420 Lexington Avenue)

5. New York Telephone Company Building (140 West Street)

6. Horn & Hardart Automat Cafeteria Building (2702-2704 Broadway)

7. 30 Rockefeller Plaza (30 Rockefeller Plaza)

8. 275 Madison Avenue Building (275 Madison Avenue)

9. AT&T Long Lines Building (33 Thomas Street)

10. Radio City Music Hall (1260 6th Avenue)

11. 369th Regiment Armory (2366 Fifth Avenue)

[visit-new-york]

100 Most Fascinating Facts About the Chrysler Building:

1. When was the Chrysler Building built? The construction of the Chrysler Building commenced in 1928 and reached completion in 1930. It was inaugurated on May 27, 1930, amidst the enthusiasm and anticipation of a rapidly evolving New York City.

2. Who designed the Chrysler Building? The architectural genius behind the Chrysler Building is William Van Alen. His innovative vision and meticulous attention to detail are the driving forces behind the building's iconic Art Deco design.

3. Why was the Chrysler Building built? The Chrysler Building was commissioned as the corporate headquarters for the Chrysler Corporation, headed by Walter P. Chrysler. Beyond its practical purpose, it was intended to serve as a symbol of progress, engineering prowess, and the evolving modern age.

4. What is the architectural style of the Chrysler Building? The Chrysler Building stands as an epitome of Art Deco architecture. Characterized by geometric patterns, sleek lines, and decorative elements, this style emerged in the early 20th century as a celebration of technological advancements and modern aesthetics.

5. How tall is the Chrysler Building? The Chrysler Building rises to a height of 1,046 feet (319 meters) including its iconic spire, which contributes significantly to its overall verticality and distinctive appearance.

6. Is the Chrysler Building the tallest in New York City? Although once the tallest in the world, the Chrysler Building is no longer the tallest in New York City, as other skyscrapers, including the Empire State Building and more recently, One World Trade Center, have since surpassed it in height.

7. What materials were used in the construction of the Chrysler Building? The Chrysler Building's frame is primarily composed of steel, providing structural stability and allowing it to reach impressive heights. Its façade is adorned with decorative elements such as stainless steel, limestone, and brick, lending it a visually captivating texture.

8. How long did it take to build the Chrysler Building? The construction process of the Chrysler Building was notably swift for its time, taking approximately two years, from 1928 to 1930, to complete.

9. What is the significance of the terraced crown on the Chrysler Building? The terraced crown of the Chrysler Building serves both an aesthetic and symbolic purpose. Designed in a distinctive stepped style, the crown was inspired by radiator grilles and hubcaps of automobiles, paying homage to the prominence of the automobile industry in the 1920s.

10. Can you visit the top of the Chrysler Building? No, access to the upper floors, including the iconic crown, is typically restricted to building personnel due to security and logistical reasons.

11. Is the Chrysler Building open to the public? While the upper floors are not accessible to the public, visitors can appreciate the building's exterior and visit the lobby, which features exquisite Art Deco detailing.

12. What businesses or offices are located in the Chrysler Building? While the Chrysler Building was constructed as a corporate headquarters, its interior spaces have housed various offices and businesses over the years, contributing to its commercial importance.

13. What is the address of the Chrysler Building? The Chrysler Building is situated at 405 Lexington Avenue, New York City, standing as a testament to its strategic central location within the bustling metropolis.

14. How does the Chrysler Building compare to other famous skyscrapers? The Chrysler Building is renowned for its striking Art Deco design, setting it apart from other iconic skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center, each contributing uniquely to New York's skyline.

15. Was the Chrysler Building the tallest building in the world at any point? Yes, the Chrysler Building proudly held the title of the world's tallest building upon its completion in 1930, towering over the cityscape and symbolizing mankind's architectural achievements.

16. How has the Chrysler Building influenced architecture? The Chrysler Building's innovative Art Deco design, intricate ornamentation, and graceful vertical lines have left an indelible mark on architecture, inspiring subsequent skyscraper designs and influencing the broader Art Deco movement.

17. Are there any replicas or similar buildings to the Chrysler Building? While there are no exact replicas, the Chrysler Building's design has inspired other structures worldwide, particularly during the Art Deco era.

18. What is the cost of the Chrysler Building's construction? The construction of the Chrysler Building, an ambitious endeavor, carried a price tag of approximately $20 million during the late 1920s.

19. Are there any notable events associated with the Chrysler Building? The Chrysler Building's completion coincided with the Great Depression, impacting its initial occupancy and economic viability. It weathered the challenges of its time, reflecting the resilience of New York City.

20. How has the Chrysler Building been depicted in popular culture? The Chrysler Building has graced the silver screen, adorned book covers, and inspired countless artworks, becoming an enduring symbol of urban aspiration and sophistication.

21. What is the significance of the eagle gargoyles on the Chrysler Building? The eagle gargoyles perched on the corners of the 61st floor serve as potent symbols of ambition, freedom, and the American spirit, echoing the prevailing sentiment of progress during the 1920s.

22. Are there any special lighting or illumination features on the Chrysler Building? The Chrysler Building's crown has been illuminated with various colors during festive occasions, infusing its majestic form with a vibrant aura that captivates onlookers.

23. How did the Great Depression impact the Chrysler Building's construction? The Great Depression cast a shadow over the initial occupancy of the Chrysler Building, challenging its financial viability as economic difficulties prevailed during its early years.

24. Is the Chrysler Building considered Art Deco? Yes, the Chrysler Building is an iconic representation of the Art Deco architectural movement, characterized by its sleek geometric forms and lavish ornamentation.

25. What is the history of the land on which the Chrysler Building stands? The land on which the Chrysler Building proudly stands was leased from the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, reflecting a collaborative endeavor between commerce and education.

26. What other works of the architect William Van Alen are noteworthy? While the Chrysler Building is his magnum opus, William Van Alen's contributions extend to other notable structures in New York City, further enriching the city's architectural landscape.

27. Are there any myths or legends associated with the Chrysler Building? While not enveloped in myths, the Chrysler Building's remarkable design and history have woven it into the fabric of New York's urban legends and tales.

28. Can you see the Chrysler Building from other parts of New York City? Owing to its lofty height and strategic location, the Chrysler Building commands panoramic views, rendering it visible from numerous vantage points across the city.

29. Has the Chrysler Building undergone any major renovations? The Chrysler Building has experienced various restoration and maintenance efforts aimed at preserving its historic grandeur and safeguarding its structural integrity.

30. How does the Chrysler Building contribute to New York City's skyline? The Chrysler Building's distinctive silhouette, crowned by its terraced design and decorative elements, contributes a sense of elegance and history to New York City's iconic skyline.

31. What makes the Chrysler Building unique compared to other skyscrapers? The Chrysler Building's Art Deco flair, intricate detailing, and its pursuit of vertical elegance set it apart, positioning it as a timeless architectural masterpiece.

32. How did the Chrysler Building get its name? Named after the visionary Walter P. Chrysler, founder of the Chrysler Corporation, the building serves as a tribute to his influence and contributions to the automotive industry.

33. What was the original purpose of the Chrysler Building? The Chrysler Building was initially conceived as the headquarters for the Chrysler Corporation, reflecting the ambitions of its namesake to establish a prominent presence in New York City.

34. How many floors does the Chrysler Building have? The Chrysler Building boasts 77 floors, including both functional office spaces and levels dedicated to mechanical operations.

35. How is the interior of the Chrysler Building designed? The interior of the Chrysler Building, while less famous than its exterior, exhibits Art Deco influences through meticulous detailing, marble elements, and geometric patterns.

36. Are there any environmental or sustainability features in the Chrysler Building? Given its construction during a different era, the Chrysler Building lacks modern sustainability features. However, retrofitting efforts have aimed to enhance energy efficiency.

37. What challenges were faced during the construction of the Chrysler Building? The rapid construction timeline posed challenges in coordinating intricate design elements, managing resources, and aligning with financial constraints, all while adhering to safety standards.

38. Who owns the Chrysler Building today? The ownership of the Chrysler Building has shifted over time. In recent years, it was owned by the Abu Dhabi Investment Council and managed by Tishman Speyer, but ownership arrangements may evolve.

39. Has the Chrysler Building been featured in any films or TV shows? The Chrysler Building's distinctive appearance has graced the backgrounds of numerous films and TV shows, solidifying its status as an enduring cultural icon.

40. What role did Walter P. Chrysler play in the building's design? Walter P. Chrysler's vision, ambition, and financial backing were instrumental in turning the architectural vision of the Chrysler Building into a towering reality.

41. Are there any guided tours of the Chrysler Building? While access to the upper levels is usually restricted, the lobby and its Art Deco features have been open for guided tours, allowing visitors to glimpse its interior beauty.

42. How has the perception of the Chrysler Building changed over time? The perception of the Chrysler Building has transformed from being a symbol of corporate prominence to a revered architectural gem, embodying the essence of an era.

43. What is the symbolism behind the Chrysler Building's decorations? The decorations, inspired by automobile motifs and Art Deco designs, symbolize progress, innovation, and the forward-looking spirit of the 1920s.

44. How did the public react to the Chrysler Building when it was completed? The public marveled at the Chrysler Building's height, design, and the testament it stood as to human achievement, particularly during a time of rapid technological advancements.

45. Are there any famous photographs or artworks featuring the Chrysler Building? Countless photographs and artworks capture the Chrysler Building's grace and grandeur, immortalizing it in the visual history of New York City.

46. How does the Chrysler Building represent the Roaring Twenties? The Chrysler Building encapsulates the exuberance and optimism of the Roaring Twenties, echoing the era's love for innovation, luxury, and bold statements.

47. What is the current use of the Chrysler Building's interior spaces? The interior spaces of the Chrysler Building have been used for offices and commercial purposes, maintaining its role as a business hub within the city.

48. Are there any famous quotes about the Chrysler Building? Various luminaries have waxed eloquent about the Chrysler Building, with descriptions highlighting its elegance, grace, and architectural significance.

49. How did the Chrysler Building impact the history of skyscrapers? The Chrysler Building marked a turning point in skyscraper design, pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation and contributing to the evolution of cityscapes worldwide.

50. What is the role of the Chrysler Building in New York's history? The Chrysler Building serves as a touchstone in New York's history, representing an era of technological leaps, urban ambition, and architectural creativity.

51. How does the Chrysler Building contribute to Manhattan's cityscape? Amidst the modern skyscrapers, the Chrysler Building's graceful curvature and Art Deco embellishments offer a nostalgic touch to Manhattan's dynamic cityscape.

52. Has the Chrysler Building ever been sold or changed ownership? The Chrysler Building's ownership has shifted over time due to various financial transactions, illustrating its status as a sought-after asset.

53. Are there any plans for the future of the Chrysler Building? Future plans for the Chrysler Building are subject to ownership decisions, potential renovations, and urban development trends.

54. How do architects and designers view the Chrysler Building today? Architects and designers continue to admire the Chrysler Building as a paragon of Art Deco brilliance, studying its design principles and innovative approach.

55. What is the relationship between the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building? The Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building shared a fierce rivalry during their respective constructions, both vying for the title of the world's tallest building.

56. Has the Chrysler Building won any awards for its architecture? While not awarded a specific architectural prize, the Chrysler Building's enduring popularity and architectural significance stand as its ultimate accolades.

57. What role did the construction unions play in the building's creation? Construction unions played a vital role in the building's realization, contributing their expertise, labor, and craftsmanship to the project.

58. Are there any hidden details or Easter eggs in the Chrysler Building's design? While not widely known, it's possible that the Chrysler Building's design conceals subtle details or symbolic elements that may hold hidden meanings.

59. How does the Chrysler Building look at night? Illuminated against the night sky, the Chrysler Building exudes a magical aura, showcasing its graceful spire and crown in all their splendor.

60. How has technology influenced the preservation of the Chrysler Building? Technological advancements have facilitated the ongoing maintenance and preservation efforts, enabling the building's distinctive features to be upheld for future generations.

61. What role did William H. Reynolds play in the Chrysler Building's construction? William H. Reynolds served as the general contractor overseeing the meticulous execution of the Chrysler Building's construction.

62. Are there any safety features incorporated into the Chrysler Building's design? While the safety standards of its time were adhered to, modern safety features have been integrated into the building over the years to ensure the well-being of occupants and visitors.

63. What is the architectural legacy of the Chrysler Building? The Chrysler Building's architectural legacy lies in its role as a global symbol of Art Deco elegance, inspiring architects and enthusiasts alike with its groundbreaking design.

64. How did the Chrysler Building impact the surrounding neighborhood? The presence of the Chrysler Building contributed to the transformation of its Midtown Manhattan neighborhood, attracting commerce, visitors, and further development.

65. How has the Chrysler Building's perception changed since its completion? From its initial role as a symbol of corporate might, the Chrysler Building has evolved into a cultural icon, celebrated for its architectural brilliance and historical importance.

66. Can you see the Chrysler Building from Central Park? Yes, parts of the Chrysler Building are visible from certain viewpoints within Central Park, showcasing its elegance against the urban backdrop.

67. How did the Chrysler Building's construction impact the economy? The construction of the Chrysler Building provided a crucial source of employment during the challenging economic climate of its time, offering jobs and stimulating local economy.

68. What was the tallest building before the Chrysler Building was constructed? Prior to the Chrysler Building's completion, the Woolworth Building held the distinction of being the world's tallest building.

69. What are some interesting anecdotes about the Chrysler Building's history? Anecdotes include the competitive race with the Empire State Building for height supremacy and the influence of the automotive industry on its design.

70. How has the Chrysler Building remained relevant in modern times? The Chrysler Building's timeless design, combined with its status as an architectural icon, has allowed it to transcend time and maintain its relevance.

71. What engineering innovations were used in the construction of the Chrysler Building? The Chrysler Building utilized innovative techniques like riveting and a steel framework to achieve its impressive height, setting new standards for skyscraper construction.

72. How has the exterior of the Chrysler Building been maintained? The exterior has been subject to periodic restoration efforts to preserve its distinctive Art Deco ornamentation and maintain its visual impact.

73. What is the role of the Chrysler Building in celebrating Art Deco? The Chrysler Building stands as a prime exemplar of Art Deco architecture, celebrating the movement's emphasis on geometric forms and luxurious detailing.

74. How has the Chrysler Building's fame influenced tourism in New York? The Chrysler Building, along with other iconic landmarks, has undoubtedly contributed to New York's allure as a global tourist destination.

75. Are there any architectural controversies related to the Chrysler Building? The Chrysler Building isn't associated with major architectural controversies, but its height race with the Empire State Building sparked competitive debates.

76. How has the Chrysler Building's architecture influenced other structures? The Chrysler Building's Art Deco style has served as a muse, inspiring subsequent architects to incorporate elements of its elegance into their designs.

77. Can you see the Chrysler Building from the Statue of Liberty? While quite a distance separates the Statue of Liberty and the Chrysler Building, the latter's towering presence allows it to be visible from various viewpoints.

78. Are there any restoration projects planned for the Chrysler Building? Restoration initiatives may be undertaken to ensure the preservation of the building's historical and architectural significance, although specific plans can vary.

79. What are the architectural details of the Chrysler Building's lobby? The lobby features marble walls, geometric patterns, and ornate decorations that echo the building's overall Art Deco aesthetic.

80. How has the Chrysler Building survived natural disasters and weathering? The building's sturdy construction has enabled it to withstand weathering and minor natural events, showcasing the enduring quality of its design and materials.

81. What role does the Chrysler Building play in the history of New York real estate? The Chrysler Building played a role in shaping the landscape of New York's real estate sector, adding a touch of elegance and verticality to the city's skyline.

82. How did the construction of the Chrysler Building impact local employment? The construction of the Chrysler Building provided jobs during a period of economic uncertainty, offering employment opportunities for workers in the construction industry.

83. Can you see the Chrysler Building from Times Square? Yes, certain vantage points in Times Square offer views of the Chrysler Building, contributing to the city's vibrant visual tapestry.

84. How does the Chrysler Building symbolize New York's ambition? The Chrysler Building stands as a symbol of New York's unyielding ambition and its continuous drive to push the boundaries of architecture and engineering.

85. What is the role of the Chrysler Building in the city's identity? The Chrysler Building has become an integral part of New York's identity, representing its aspirations, innovation, and architectural excellence.

86. How has the Chrysler Building influenced the aesthetics of modern skyscrapers? The Chrysler Building's Art Deco elements have left an indelible imprint on the aesthetics of skyscrapers, impacting subsequent designs with its unique flair.

87. What role did the automobile industry play in the creation of the Chrysler Building? The building's design, with its automobile-inspired motifs, pays homage to the automotive industry, reflecting the era's technological advancements.

88. How does the Chrysler Building stand out among Manhattan's skyscrapers? The Chrysler Building's ornate crown, intricate detailing, and Art Deco embellishments set it apart, granting it a sense of timeless elegance within the skyline.

89. What impact did the Chrysler Building have on the Art Deco movement? The Chrysler Building is considered a pinnacle of the Art Deco movement, influencing subsequent Art Deco architecture and contributing to its popularity.

90. How has the Chrysler Building's lighting been updated over the years? The lighting of the Chrysler Building has evolved with technological advancements, offering dynamic displays and illuminations during special events and celebrations.

91. Can you see the Chrysler Building from Brooklyn? Yes, the towering presence of the Chrysler Building can be seen from various parts of Brooklyn that have unobstructed sightlines toward Manhattan.

92. How does the Chrysler Building compare to other landmarks like the Flatiron Building? While both are iconic, the Chrysler Building's height and distinct Art Deco style differentiate it from the Flatiron Building, which has its own historical significance.

93. What are some lesser-known facts about the Chrysler Building? Lesser-known facts include its rapid construction time, William Van Alen's competitive nature, and the role of car motifs in its design.

94. How has the Chrysler Building been depicted in architectural literature? Architectural literature has often highlighted the Chrysler Building's architectural significance, its role in the Art Deco movement, and its influence on skyscraper design.

95. What role did the Chrysler Building play in the city's skyline competition? The Chrysler Building's race for height supremacy with the Empire State Building epitomized New York's ambition and fierce competition during its construction.

96. How does the Chrysler Building embody the spirit of the 1920s? The Chrysler Building captures the exuberance and dynamism of the 1920s through its groundbreaking design, reflecting the era's technological advancements.

97. What was the public's reaction to the Chrysler Building's completion? The public responded with awe and admiration, considering the Chrysler Building a symbol of human achievement, modernity, and progress.

98. How have preservation efforts impacted the Chrysler Building's future? Preservation efforts ensure that the Chrysler Building's architectural and historical significance remain intact, safeguarding its place in New York's skyline.

99. Can you see the Chrysler Building from the One World Trade Center? Yes, the One World Trade Center offers sweeping views of Manhattan, allowing visitors to behold the iconic Chrysler Building amidst the city's panorama.

100. How has the Chrysler Building inspired artists and creatives over the years? The Chrysler Building's distinctive silhouette, elegant design, and historical significance have captivated artists, photographers, writers, and filmmakers, becoming a muse for creative expression. Its enduring presence in various artistic mediums speaks to its lasting impact on culture and imagination.

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[newyorkthegoldenage]

Lexington Avenue & 90th Street, 1931. Why were the kids lined up on the corner? They didn't have school buses in those days.

Photo: NYC Municipal Archives Instagram

[fxdltc88]

Michigan's first trails were not made by native Americans but ranging buffalo herds in migration. This was especially true on the St. Joseph trail in Southwest Michigan. The major trails in lower Michigan tended to link Indian settlements of Mackinac, Detroit, Saginaw, and Niles. The area around Saginaw had the most native American settlements in the Great Lakes region.

Noted below are native trails that we travel everyday.

Shore Line Trail - A minor trail starting near Toledo and hugging Lake Erie's shore, the Straits of Detroit. Past Fort Gratiot and Lake Huron to a spot near White Rock. White Rock was considered a solemn spiritual place of offering. Today this route is mirrored by Lakeshore Drive from Detroit to Lexington and M-25 north. This trail continues north along the entire shore to Cheboygan. It was considered a minor trail as travel via canoe was preferred along this route. Michigan chose to utilize much of the original Native American trail along Lake Huron and Saginaw Bay to create M-25. Paving of Michigan's First Scenic Highway was started in 1933 and completed in 1940.

Saginaw Trail - One of the oldest trails, this Sauk trail system, went from the Straits of Detroit to Saginaw. Today this starts at the Detroit River and heads northwest up Woodward Avenue to Pontiac, then continues up Dixie Highway through Flint to Saginaw.

Sand Ridge Indian Trail - An ancient trail from Saginaw to Port Austin in Michigan's Thumb. Used primarily for access to the rich hunting ground of the Thumb. Today, M-25 follows much of the same route. However, the old trail is still evident and marked as Sand Road in Huron County. A major canoe passage across Saginaw Bay occurred at Oak Point via Charity Island to reach the AuSable River.

St. Joseph's Trail - A major east-west system called Route du Sieur de la Salle and the Territorial Road. When the Territorial road was first built from Plymouth to St Joseph, a portion of the road was ‘corduroy.’ which means wood lo

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

New York Subway :: EYE

* * * * *

“New York is an ugly city, a dirty city. Its climate is a scandal, its politics are used to frighten children, its traffic is madness, its competition is murderous. But there is one thing about it - once you have lived in New York and it has become your home, no place else is good enough.” ― John Steinbeck, America and Americans and Selected Nonfiction

+

“I remember walking across Sixty-second Street one twilight that first spring, or the second spring, they were all alike for a while. I was late to meet someone but I stopped at Lexington Avenue and bought a peach and stood on the corner eating it and knew that I had come out out of the West and reached the mirage. I could taste the peach and feel the soft air blowing from a subway grating on my legs and I could smell lilac and garbage and expensive perfume and I knew that it would cost something sooner or later—because I did not belong there, did not come from there—but when you are twenty-two or twenty-three, you figure that later you will have a high emotional balance, and be able to pay whatever it costs. I still believed in possibilities then, still had the sense, so peculiar to New York, that something extraordinary would happen any minute, any day, any month.” ― Joan Didion, Slouching Towards Bethlehem

+

“So I went to New York City to be born again. It was and remains easy for most Americans to go somewhere else and start anew. I wasn't like my parents. I didn't have any supposedly sacred piece of land or shoals of friends to leave behind. Nowhere has the number zero been of more philisophical value than in the United States.... and when the [train] plunged into a tunnel under New York City, with it's lining of pipes and wires, I was out of the womb and into the birth canal.” ― Kurt Vonnegut, Bluebeard

[the-badger-mole]

Profiles In Style

This is Ann Lowe, "Society's Best Kept Secret".

Ann (b. 1898) was the daughter and granddaughter of seamstresses who worked for the first families of Montgomery. When she was 16, Lowe's mother died, leaving a collection of four ball gowns for the First Lady of Alabama. Lowe took up the project and, using the skills she learned from her mother and grandmother, finished the dresses.

In 1917, Lowe was divorced, and a mother when she moved to NYC to attend S.T.Taylor Design School. The school was segregated at the time,and she had to take classes in a room alone, because stupid has always been able to cross state lines.

When she graduated in 1919, Lowe moved to Tampa where she opened her first dress salon, Annie Cohen, catering to members of high society. It was a success, and eventually Lowe used her earnings to move back to NYC where she designed on commission for Henri Bendel, Chez Sonia, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. She even designed the dress that actress wore to accept an Academy Award in 1946, although the name on the dress was Sonia Rosenberg (shady).

Lowe got sick of not getting credit for her work, so in 1950, she opened a new salon in NYC with her son; Ann Lowe's Gowns on Lexington Ave. Her one-of-a-kind dresses were made of the finest fabrics, and graced the forms of the world's most famous socialites. She designed for the Rockefellers, the Lodges, the Du Ponts and the Auchinclosses.

Janet Auchincloss was such a fan of Ms. Lowe's that in 1953, she hired Lowe to design a dress for her daughter, Jacqueline Bouvier for her wedding to Senator John F. Kennedy.

Despite being a massive success, and a favorite of NYC's society ladies, Ann Lowe rarely made any real profit on her designs after paying her staff. Still, she continued to do her thing. After a particularly rough time in the 60s, during which she lost her store, her right eye, and developed cataract in her left eye, she opened another store, Ann Lowe Originals, on Madison Ave. She retired in 1972. She died in 1981 while in the care of her daughter, Ruth.

The moral of the story is it's okay to be expensive, especially if you're good at what you do.

[allthenewzworld]

The MTA marked the New York City subway's 120th anniversary with rides on vintage Lo-V cars from 1917.

Departing from Old South Ferry Station, the nostalgic trains took riders up the 1/2/3 line to the Bronx, looped via Lexington Avenue's 4/5/6 line, and ended at Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall.

"This system transformed New York City," NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow said, noting the subway's historic impact.

📸: New York Transit Museum Collection

Read more at link in our bio.

[guerrerense]

Bee Line Service in Louisville por Mike Danneman Por Flickr: Norfolk Southern “Reading heritage” No. 1067 leads westbound NS coal train No. 77J from the Brown Power Plant in the Lexington, Kentucky, area and is bound for a coal mine in southern Indiana. The empty train is passing L.S. Junction at 12th Street and Magnolia Avenue in Louisville, Kentucky, on August 9, 2012.

[wanderingnewyork]

From 2021: A No. 6 train enters the #14th_Street_Union_Square_Station, #Manhattan.

[theultimatefan]

Strat-O-Matic Opening Day At Glen Head, N.Y. Headquarters A Big Hit For Fans

They began lining up at 2 a.m. At least that’s the reported time that the first guest appeared at Strat-O-Matic Headquarters on Railroad Avenue, in the shadow of the Glen Head Long Island Rail Road stop. The first of what grew to more than 200 hearty souls braved near-freezing temperatures Friday in order to be among those to get ahold of the new baseball season cards fresh out of the warehouse.

In what has become an annual tradition, gamers from across the country – and sometimes other parts of the world – gather outside the blue-gray offices, not only to pick up the new season game and other items, but to meet friends old and new who share a love for the game that has been such an important part of their lives.

By all accounts, Bret Sypniewski traveled the farthest, getting into his customized white cargo van and traversing the country all the way from Las Vegas, where he took orders of his own for upwards of 30 games from friends and competitors at the various tournaments that he’s participated in regularly since retirement.

“It took me about 10 days, I took the scenic route,” said the affable Sypniewski, who has played the game for more than 35 years, a time frame that seemed to match many of the Opening Day participants. “I enjoy the tournaments, playing face to face, getting to interact with people while we play.”

Sypniewski made the Strat-O-Matic visit the fulcrum of a trip that included stops in Lubbock, Texas, for some hiking and a Texas Tech Red Raiders basketball game, another in Lexington, Kentucky, for a UK game and various other activities. His diverse interests match the variety of Strat-O-Matic baseball seasons that he enjoys playing.

“I enjoy playing the 1911-1930 teams, but I’m picking up the new season and 1984,” he added. “I like the old time stuff, I learn a lot about the players.”

Another highlight for Opening Day attendees is meeting the Strat-O-Matic founder and creator, Hal Richman, who enjoys hearing fans talk about the decades of enjoyment that the game has brought them.

Strat-O-Matic Chief Content Officer John Garcia presided over the Opening Day ceremonies, which included the induction of three members into the Strat-O-Matic Hall of Fame, including former major leaguer and noted SOM enthusiast Keith Hernandez, longtime game tester Larry Foster and Strat-O-Matic Forum editor Dan Patterson.

Garcia and CEO Adam Richman also raffled off some unique items, including test cards from last year’s 1933-1983 All-Star baseball set, a game autographed by Hal Richman, a subscription to the pending release of Baseball Max, currently in beta, and more.

[nebris]

A plan to cover a river's front with docks, parks and tracks in 1911 would not be realized until the 1930s

We present a bird's eye view showing the salient features of this proposed West Side improvement. At an average distance of 200 feet out from the present shore line, a riprap wall will be built, and the intervening space filled in with suitable material.

Adjacent to the present tracks of the New York Central Railroad, space will be reserved for two additional tracks, to be built by the company when the increased traffic of the future calls for them.

Then, in, their turn, will be constructed three municipal freight tracks, a broad loading and unloading platform, a driveway for vehicles, a wide platform for receiving river and ocean freight, and, finally, along the dock front will be a pair of tracks for the use of freight unloaded from or to be delivered to steamships. The whole of this area, up to the edge of the steamship loading and unloading platform, will be covered by a massive steel and concrete roof, and upon this will be laid a covering of earth of sufficient depth to meet the requirements of a park, and support a growth of turf, shrubbery and trees.

The park, as thus formed, will be laid out with walks and windings paths to conform to the pathways existing on the slopes of Riverside Park. Large openings will be provided at intervals for lighting and ventilating the covered-in tracks and roadways, and in that portion of the new park which is opposite Columbia College a stadium will be laid out for the use of the university.

It is the expectation of the commissioners that practically all of the rock required for the riprap, and one-sixth of the earth necessary for filling purposes, will be obtained from the excavations of the proposed Lexington Avenue-Broadway subway.

The remaining material, about one million cubic yards, can be obtained from selected materials, such as clean ashes, of the street cleaning department, and from the various excavations for buildings in the district bordering on the proposed work.

Scientific American article excerpt and colorized illustration, May 6, 1911

It wasn't until the 30's that the West Side improvement really took off, driven by "the man who got things done," Robert Moses.

Moses's biographer Robert Caro described Moses surveying the area prior to his project, and seeing a wasteland six miles long, stretching from where he stood all the way north to 181st street. "The 'park' was nothing but a vast low-lying mass of dirt and mud. Unpainted, rusting, jagged wire fences along the tracks barred the city from its waterfront.

"The engines that pulled trains along the tracks burned coal or oil; from their smokestacks a dense black smog rose toward the apartment houses, coating windowsills with grit. A stench seemed to hang over Riverside Drive endlessly after each passage of a train carrying south to the slaughterhouses in downtown Manhattan carload after carload of cattle and pigs."

Once, Frances Perkins heard Moses exclaim, "Isn't this a temptation to you? Couldn't this waterfront be the most beautiful thing in the world?"

Moses's updated "West Side Improvement" plan, designed by Gilmore D. Clarke, Michael Rapuano, and Clinton Loyd, retained the railroad tunnel under the park, but moved the parkway to the shorefront instead; this would become the Henry Hudson Parkway.

As part of the project, the parkway was to connect with the West Side Elevated Highway at the south end of Riverside Park, while the railroad would connect to the High Line viaduct even further south. The parkway was to be built on newly filled land along the shore, requiring the extension of the shoreline by 50 feet and the dumping of 1 million cubic yards of fill. This resulted in a more contiguous park area, since the roof of the tunnel would then be occupied by parkland.

Moses's plan was also more actively focused toward recreation: his plan called for playgrounds, tennis courts, wading and swimming pools, an amphitheater, and docks at 79th and 96th Streets. The roof of the railroad tunnel would host several of these recreation fields, while other parts of the tunnel's roof would be used by a promenade. The cost as submitted to the New York City Board of Estimate was $11 million (equivalent to $215 million in 2021), of which $6 million would go toward the railroad tunnel alone (equivalent to $117 million in 2021).

By mid-1934, Moses was ready to employ about 4,000 workers through the Works Progress Administration. Filling operations were underway by early 1935, requiring the dumping of 4,000 cubic yards of dirt per day.

The parkway in Riverside Park was approved in June 1935, and was completed in 1937. In addition, plans for a new boat basin at 149th Street were announced in 1939. The West Side Improvement project was completed by 1941. The project was twice as big as the Hoover Dam's construction. In total, the project plan added 132 acres to the park. Ultimately eight full playgrounds were built, as well as baseball fields and tennis, handball, and basketball courts. Having achieved its goal of rebuilding Riverside Park, the Women's League disbanded in 1937. Wikipedia article

Google earth aerial view of the Westside improvement in 2023

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A crowd of passengers waves from the front car as the El train pulls out from Manhattan for its last trip across the bridge, March 5, 1944. "Two hundred persons braved the cold in the barnlike station at Park Row to ride the last train out, a veteran six-car carrier of Brooklyn's Lexington Avenue Line."

Photo: NY Daily News

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New Yorkers who have taken to the streets and subway stations over the last few days to protest the killing of Jordan Neely have been met with overwhelming force by the NYPD. Scores of police officers—including the unit that was found to have repeatedly abused its power during the 2020 protests—have shown up to relatively small demonstrations, violently arresting participants, journalists, and even a longtime advocate known for monitoring the NYPD. Meanwhile, Daniel Penny, the ex-Marine who choked Neely to death, has yet to be charged with any crime.

"Since 2011, I've been monitoring protests. This is the first time they ever decided to go after me," said Jose LaSalle, founder of the Bronx-based Copwatch Patrol Unit, who was arrested at a protest on Saturday. "So I was like, whoa, the game just changed right now." 

Late Monday night, the NYPD justified their combative posture by pointing to what they are calling a "Molotov cocktail" that they said was found at a vigil for Neely earlier that evening. "This is something that's dangerous," NYPD Chief Jeffrey Maddrey said at an extremely dimly lit press conference in front of police headquarters. "It could hurt members of the department. It could hurt other protesters. It could hurt innocent people who are passing by." But as of that press conference, all that was known about the alleged weapon was that it's a glass bottle with a rag and liquid in it—Maddrey admitted that the NYPD has yet to run any tests on what that liquid actually was.

Saturday's event, a show of solidarity and mourning in the wake of Neely's killing, started at the Broadway-Lafayette station and ended up at the Lexington Avenue-63rd Street station, where a group of protesters jumped down into the Q Line tracks to stop subway service.

After a few minutes, protesters climbed off the tracks and began to leave of their own volition. That's when witnesses say the police pounced.

"It's such an odd thing for arrests to happen when people are peacefully dispersing—we're not even talking about property damage or graffiti," Derrick, a protester who saw the arrests and said he was shocked by their intensity, told Hell Gate. "I was right in front of three awful, awful, awful arrests, some of the most brutal arrests I've ever seen—two young folks who were very small, and they were just beaten by huge police officers for no reason! There were like five, six police officers on each person. Just a sea of bodies."

The group of protesters followed the police and the people they arrested aboveground to the NYPD vehicles at 63rd Street and Third Avenue. As the group watched the detainees get carted away, the police started making more arrests.

"They played the LRAD and said to get off the street, but everybody was on the sidewalk, and they continued to grab people on the sidewalk in just the most vicious way," said Derrick, who asked that we not publish his last name due to law enforcement concerns. "They started making it seem like they were leaving, they walked across the street, and then they ran at us. The NYPD hasn't even released the names of the other two folks who participated in the murder of Jordan Neely—it's pretty remarkable that they're gonna criminalize protests and not criminalize murder." [...]

On Monday, the NYPD arrested 11 more people, including freelance photojournalist Stephanie Keith, at a vigil in Neely's honor at the Broadway-Lafayette subway station. [...]

"As far as the reporter, the reporter interfered in at least two arrests in the middle of the street, and they got very physical. The third arrest—she interfered a third time, so she was placed under arrest," [Deputy Chief John] Chell said about Keith. 

Keith, who has worked on Hell Gate assignments, declined to comment on her arrest, citing pending criminal charges for disorderly conduct. But Keith told Gothamist that she was "not even near the arrest, I didn't even see it."

LaSalle said that from his perspective, the NYPD seemed eager to make as many arrests as possible. "It's like they've been holding back for so long, that on Saturday, they couldn't hold back no more," he said. "It was like, hype. We were recording them and monitoring them and watching them, and we were seeing them very agitated. They was full of some type of testosterone, they were just ready. 'Grab him!' or 'Go get him!' It was a different feeling from SRG than we've felt in a while out there, during these protests."

-- “The NYPD Is Greeting Vigils for Jordan Neely With Brute Force” by Katie Way for Hell Gate, 9 May 2023

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#streetphotography #lexingtonavenue #nyc a colored walk at sunset in #uppereastsidenyc (presso 77th Street (IRT Lexington Avenue Line)) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp6G8dED5CNqqTdomfiJDq4ntc6O1tvIy7XHq80/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=