Discovering Brooklyn Series: “Greenpoint”
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This is the first of our monthly series covering all of Brooklyn from Greenpoint to Sea Gate. I deliberately started our journey from the top of the borough. “Up north,” Greenpoint has the East River to its left and Queens County to its right. In months to come, I will work my way “down south” finishing off the series in Sea Gate.
Brooklyn’s first featured location was home to early 20th century actress, playwright, and producer, Mae West. The late Ms. West was wealthy, super sexy, and highly controversial. She repeatedly surprised, shocked, and seduced audiences all over the world. For those Millennials out there (born 1980 to 2000), no – she is not related to superstar Kanye West. Her lifestyle might suggest she is but to my knowledge, she is not. A popular quote of hers was, “why don’t you come up sometime and see me?” So I decided to travel by train to Greenpoint; the best way to travel in Brooklyn. I took the Crosstown G train from Hoyt and Schermerhorn in Downtown Brooklyn to the Greenpoint Avenue stop.
Once out of the subway, I passed Kent, Java and India Streets to get to the pier. (PS the India Street Ferry could resume service as early as next week) As I looked into the murky waters in front of me, my mind drifted to another time. I drifted to the time when Dutch colonizers exploited Java (today part of Indonesia) and the United East India Company prospered and exerted its power. My mind wandered to the time when New York had more enslaved African Americans than many southern territories. Yes! slavery existed in the North. I thought about the Abolitionists in Greenpoint and Williamsburg contributing much to the fight against enslavement and injustice. I thought about the time when Kings County included only six towns: Brooklyn, Bushwick, Flatbush, Flatlands, Gravesend and New Utrecht. I continued my Greenpoint journey.
I have traveled the world extensively, however, I have not been to Poland yet. But as I strolled down Manhattan Avenue, I got more than a glimpse of this Eastern European Country. I stopped at Slodycze Inc-Wedel for some yummy Polish chocolates and ventured into the Kiszka Meat Market for a look. I browsed through Lidia’s shop, Bagatelle Art, which is filled with gorgeous antiques, cultural goodies and nic nacs. Newspapers, store signs, and ads are in Polish – English is an afterthought. After some window shopping, it was time to eat. Still on Manhattan Avenue, I decided to dine at the cozy Krolewskie Jadlo restaurant for some Pickles, Pork loin, and Potatoes – oh so delicious!
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After dinner, I headed over to Nassau Avenue passing the huge McCarren Park. The park was filled with families enjoying each other, the trees, and the warm evening air. Nassau Avenue is quite trendy, funky, and fun. The street bustled with people and their pets. The outdoor cafés, bars and after hour spots beckoned and welcomed. After a glass of Riesling and an amazing day in Greenpoint, it was time to head home using the MTA.
To visitors, Greenpoint maybe a forgotten Brooklyn neighborhood; I can understand why. It’s quite far from some of the popular areas in Kings County and only one train line goes there. I encourage you however, to get a taste of this area’s divine flavor. This neighborhood’s culture is truly something special.
Be sure to check back here next month as we ‘Discover Williamsburg’.
Written By – Judith C. Lovell | Twitter @crystalparris
* Utilized “Ten Historic Walking Tours: The Big Onion Guide to Brooklyn by Seth Kami. And Eric Wakin, New York University Press, New York, 2005.
Must Attend Current Exhibition— “Brooklyn Abolitionists/In Pursuit of Freedom” — Brooklyn Historical Society pursuitoffreedom.org/
