The Bowery, East Village, New York – a strip filled with stories, character, and a colorful history! Ready to dive into the nooks and crannies? Here we go!
History
Colonial Beginnings
Originally, the Bowery was an old Native American trail that became a Dutch farm road – “Bouwerij” means farm in Dutch! Once the Brits took over, it was known as Bowery Lane.
Entertainment Hub
In the 19th century, the Bowery was a bustling entertainment district. The Bowery Theatre was the place to be, attracting everyone from the working class to the wealthy elite. P.T. Barnum even ran his American Museum nearby.
Gritty Reputation
By the late 1800s, the Bowery had a reputation for being rough and tumble, dotted with flophouses and saloons. It was the city’s skid row, where down-and-outs found temporary shelter.
Trivia & Hidden Facts
Punk Rock Birthplace
The legendary CBGB was located at 315 Bowery. This unassuming dive bar was the birthplace of American punk, hosting legends like the Ramones, Patti Smith, and Talking Heads.
Oldest Irish Bar
McSorley's Old Ale House at 15 East 7th Street is New York’s oldest Irish pub, established in 1854. Women weren’t allowed until 1970!
Flophouse to Fine Art
The New Museum at 235 Bowery sits on the site of an old flophouse. Now, it’s a hub for contemporary art, showcasing edgy and innovative works.
Bowery Savings Bank
The grand Bowery Savings Bank building at 130 Bowery is an architectural gem. Constructed in 1894, it features an opulent interior with Corinthian columns and vaulted ceilings.
Bowery Mission
Since 1879, the Bowery Mission has been providing food, shelter, and support to the homeless population of New York.
Street Art Haven
The Bowery Wall at Houston and Bowery is a rotating street art canvas. Over the years, it has featured works by legends like Keith Haring and Banksy.
Chinatown Connection
The Bowery is a gateway to Chinatown. It's lined with Asian markets, restaurants, and herbal medicine shops, offering a vibrant cultural experience.
Maritime Mementos
Look out for nautical-themed street signs. They’re a nod to Peter Stuyvesant, the last Dutch Director-General of New Amsterdam, whose farm was located here.
Literary Lanes
The Bowery has inspired countless writers. William S. Burroughs lived at the famous Bunker, an old YMCA gym turned into his home and writing space.
Hidden Statues
Keep an eye out for the small bronze statues by artist Tom Otterness hidden around the Bowery. They’re part of his “Life Underground” series.
This vibrant street has transformed over the years from farmland to flophouses to a flourishing part of New York's cultural tapestry. The Bowery’s got stories to tell – so go, explore, and uncover its secrets!