Our groups goal is to shed light on the history of Central Park as well as describe what it has to offer today, especially in terms of its design and accessibility.
Central Park is a true gem in the heart of New York! It’s a huge green oasis with beautiful scenery, trees and winding paths. There are so many things to do there, such as picnicking, jogging or just enjoying a leisurely walk. You’ll also find iconic landmarks like the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, the Central Park Zoo, and the famous Bow Bridge. It truly is a haven of peace in the middle of a bustling cityscape. Central Park is like a huge playground for adults, but with trees and grass instead of monkey bars. You can unleash your inner Tarzan and swing on tree branches, or channel your inner squirrel and harvest acorns. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even challenge the pigeons to a game of tag.
Central Park transcends its role as a scenic escape by championing accessibility. With wheelchair-friendly paths, tactile paving, and thoughtfully placed benches, the park becomes an inclusive haven for diverse residents. Families with strollers, seniors, and individuals with disabilities navigate seamlessly, enjoying recreational pursuits and cultural events. This commitment to accessibility is not just about convenience; it’s a catalyst for community cohesion. Central Park and any other open-access space become a melting pot where residents, regardless of physical abilities or economic status, engage in a shared urban experience. As a symbol of a broader societal shift, Central Park sets the standard for equitable urban landscapes, enhancing the guality of life for all residents and promoting a
harmonious cityscape where everyone can participate.
Less commonly known, is that Central Park was created over Seneca Village. Seneca Village was a community mainly of free Black property owners. This was uncommon at the time due to the racial discrimination during that time period. Seneca Village was a thriving community from the 1920s into the 1950s, but it became forcefully displaced for the city’s decision to create Central Park. The land was stripped and completely torn down to make the park we know today. The residents were compensated in exchange for vacating their homes. Seneca Village’s history emphasizes the significance of the racial and economic issues of the 19th century and how that impacted marginalized communities in New York City.
The MET created a period room called Before Yesterday We Could Fly – An Afrofuturist Period Room with its roots in Seneca Village. However, it is does not just show one historical period. Instead, the room functions as a representation of the African diasporic belief that the past, present, and future are interconnected. So, the period room contains art and objects that are historical, modern and futuristic.
We hope that our project is helpful to understand Central Park’s complex history and how Central Park serves New Yorkers today.
STEAM-Project-Central-Park
