Forgotten Borough

What sets Staten Island apart from the rest of New York City? The island’s identity has in part been defined in opposition to the city, its physical and cultural differences, and the perception of neglect by city government. It has long been whiter, wealthier, less populated, and more politically conservative. And despite many attempts over the years, Staten Island is not connected by the subway to any of the other four boroughs. Kenneth M. Gold argues that the lack of a subway connection has deeply shaped Staten Island’s history and identity. He chronicles decades of recurrent efforts to build a rail link, using this history to explore the borough’s fraught relationship with New York City as a whole. The Forgotten Borough ranges from when Staten Island first contemplated joining the city in the 1890s to the opening of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in 1964, highlighting pivotal moments when the construction of a subway appeared possible. The economics and engineering of tunnel construction, the difficulty of uniting Staten Islanders around a single solution, competition from the other boroughs, and resistance from powerful corporations and public authorities all undermined a rapid transit connection. Gold demonstrates that the failure to establish a rail link during this period caused Staten Island to diverge culturally, demographically, and politically from the other four boroughs. Drawing on extensive archival research, The Forgotten Borough shows how transportation infrastructure and politics shed new light on urban history.

The stories, poems, and essays in Forgotten Borough offer twenty-four takes on New York City's biggest underdog: Queens. From the immigrant communities of Forest Hills to the unsung heroes of Maspeth and the bustling crowds of Flushing, Queens is the most diverse county in the United States, but unlike the iconic boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Bronx, it's neither as well known in other parts of the country nor as well traveled by New Yorkers (at least those who don't need to take the 7 Train to get home). Featuring writers who hail from the borough as well as those who have moved there and come to call it home, Forgotten Borough uncovers the New York stories that most of us don't get to hear, tales that reflect not only upon contemporary life in Queens but also its humble history and its evolution to the multicultural community—the community of communities—it is today. Taken together, they offer a vivid, layered portrait of Queens as a microcosm of America, where race, ethnicity, class, and industrial growth all influence our collective past, as well as our present and future.

The 1964 Little League World Series was unique and memorable. The final game was won on a no-hitter spun by a pitcher on an All-Star team from the middle of Staten Island, the "forgotten borough" that appeared to have more in common with the American heartland than the rest of New York City. Not only had a Big Apple team never before even qualified for the World Series, but it was the first time a U.S. team defeated an international one for the championship. The members of the victorious Mid-Island Little League team were treated to a ticker-tape parade in lower Manhattan and a reception by the mayor as well as meetings with celebrities and baseball icons. When the Forgotten Borough Reigned takes the reader back to 1964, a transformational year for America in which baseball still firmly held its position as the treasured national pastime. Months before the opening of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, which quickly led to a tidal wave of change throughout Staten Island, there was a magical summer during which fourteen boys, none older than twelve, experienced a degree of fame few adults ever do while uniting the borough and city in frenzied celebration.

Emerging from the Revolutionary War and the formation of a new nation, Staten Island was poised to enter the nineteenth century ripe for growth and prosperity. Fueled by waves of immigration, Richmond County became a boomtown of industry and transportation. Piloting his first ferry with just two small masts and eighteen-cent fares, Cornelius Vanderbilt built a transit empire from his native shores of Staten Island. When the Civil War erupted, Richmond played a key role in housing and training Union troops as 125 naval guns protected New York Harbor at the Narrows. At the close of the century, Staten Island was swept up in the politics of consolidation, with 84 percent of locals voting to join Greater New York, yet the promised benefits of a new mega-city never materialized. Author Joe Borelli charts the trials and triumphs of Staten Island in the nineteenth century.

Twenty-four contemporary writers reflect on life in New York City’s biggest underdog, the “forgotten borough” of Queens.

Find out who gave the city Central Park and the Empire State Building, learn what it was like to arrive at Ellis Island, and admire the way New York has presented itself to the world in art, literature, and music.

HowExpert Guide to New York City is your ultimate companion for exploring the vibrant tapestry of the Big Apple. This meticulously crafted guide offers 101+ essential tips to learn about, discover places to visit, find things to do, and explore New York City to the fullest. With each page, you embark on a captivating journey through the city's iconic landmarks, hidden gems, cultural enclaves, and artistic wonders. Dive into the heart of New York's diversity, where every neighborhood tells a story. From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the hidden corners of Brooklyn, this guide takes you on an immersive adventure through the city's dynamic boroughs. Discover the rich history, cultural heritage, and unique character that make each neighborhood a microcosm of the world. Uncover the city's best-kept secrets, from tucked-away museums and intimate art galleries to hidden parks and serene escapes. Delve into lesser-known cultural hubs, where artistic expressions flourish and innovation takes center stage. With tips on off-the-beaten-path adventures, this guide encourages you to step beyond the familiar and embrace the extraordinary. New York's culinary scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods. Savor the tantalizing aromas of street food markets, explore farm-to-table experiences, and embark on food tours that showcase the city's gastronomic wonders. Delight in the glitz and glamour of Broadway, uncover the secrets of speakeasies, and groove to the rhythms of live music venues. Whether you're a food enthusiast, a culture seeker, or a night owl, this guide has you covered. Immerse yourself in the world of art, where traditional museums, public art installations, and interactive experiences redefine artistic boundaries. Explore iconic institutions like MoMA, discover hidden artistic gems in lesser-known museums, and trace the vibrant street art that adorns Brooklyn's walls. Celebrate New York's artistic diversity, where creativity knows no bounds. Venture beyond Manhattan's skyscrapers to explore the picturesque Hudson Valley, the serene Catskills, and the inviting shores of Long Island. Embark on day trips that lead you to historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, and cultural escapades. Whether you're seeking natural beauty or historical insight, these getaways provide a refreshing change of scenery. With 101+ meticulously curated tips, HowExpert Guide to New York City is more than just a collection of information - it's an invitation to immerse yourself in the soul of New York. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, these tips enrich your journey with insider knowledge, practical advice, and hidden treasures that only true enthusiasts know. HowExpert Guide to New York City captures the essence of New York's boundless energy, cultural fusion, and creative spirit. Let this guide be your passport to unforgettable adventures, meaningful encounters, and a deeper understanding of the city that captivates hearts and ignites imaginations. As you navigate the streets, savor the flavors, and uncover the stories, let this guide be your trusted companion, revealing New York in all its splendor. About the Author Ernest Eyes, the author of this comprehensive New York City guide, is a passionate explorer and an avid wordsmith. With an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering love for discovering new horizons, Ernest's journey into the heart of NYC is a testament to his deep-rooted passion for travel. His keen eye for detail and his genuine fascination with the city's diverse neighborhoods, cultural gems, and artistic wonders come alive on the pages of this guide. Ernest's love for writing is evident in every carefully crafted sentence. He weaves together words to paint vivid pictures of the city's bustling streets, its hidden corners, and the stories that make each neighborhood unique. Through his evocative prose, he invites readers to share in his enthusiasm and embark on an exploration that goes beyond the ordinary. With a heart that beats to the rhythm of the city's cultural beats and a pen that dances across the page to capture its essence, Ernest has poured his passion into creating a guide that is both informative and inspiring. His dedication to providing invaluable tips, insightful recommendations, and a glimpse into the lesser-known facets of New York City is a reflection of his commitment to making every reader's journey a memorable one. For Ernest, this guide isn't just a collection of information - it's a labor of love, a tribute to the city that has captured his heart, and a gift to fellow travelers who share his insatiable wanderlust. As you flip through the pages and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of New York, you'll feel Ernest's enthusiasm guiding you, encouraging you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the myriad experiences that this iconic city has to offer. HowExpert publishes how to guides on all topics from A to Z by everyday experts. Visit HowExpert.com to learn more.

Describes points of interest in New York City, including museums, gardens, zoos, historic sites, and seasonal events, and recommends hotels, restaurants, and nightspots