This past Friday Mr. Robert Sandler led his NYC History class on a walking tour of Greenwich Village that provided a captivating exploration of New York City's rich history. Delving into the evolution of Washington Square Park from a potter’s field to a vibrant cultural hub framed understanding of the area's transformation. From the stately architecture of The Row, once home to Protestant elites, to the bohemian spirit of Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney's art scene, each landmark illuminated a different chapter in the neighborhood's story.
The journey through the bohemian era before WWI introduced students to the diverse array of individuals who shaped Greenwich Village into a capital of counterculture. Visits to iconic venues like Gaslight and Cafe Wha, where music legends like Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix left their mark, sparked our imaginations and brought history to life.
Special private tours of historic landmarks such as the Church of the Ascension and the Salmagundi Club provided unique insights into the area's cultural significance. The students were thoroughly engaged throughout, eagerly absorbing the tales of activism, artistry, and innovation that define this vibrant community. They also ate delicious cannolis and learned about the the Italian immigrant community that lived south of Washington Square Park!
