The Brooklyn Museum, located at 200 Eastern Parkway, is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. With over 1.5 million works, it holds an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, African art, and a significant assortment of American art. The museum is also known for its feminist art collection, including Judy Chicago's "The Dinner Party," which is a prominent piece in the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art.
One lesser-known fact about the Brooklyn Museum is its Beaux-Arts building, designed by McKim, Mead & White, was originally intended to be twice its current size. Financial constraints during its construction in 1895 led to the project being scaled down. The museum also features an innovative program called "First Saturdays," offering free admission on the first Saturday of each month, with special exhibitions, performances, and activities.
Prospect Lefferts Gardens, often referred to as PLG, is a primarily residential neighborhood in Brooklyn. It is part of the larger Flatbush area and is bordered by Prospect Park, Empire Boulevard, New York Avenue, and Clarkson Avenue. The neighborhood is known for its diverse population and well-preserved historic homes, particularly the early 20th-century row houses and Victorian mansions.
A notable hidden gem in Prospect Lefferts Gardens is the Lefferts Historic House, located within Prospect Park. Built in the 18th century by the Lefferts family, it serves as a museum offering insights into Brooklyn's agricultural history and early Dutch settlers. The house features period rooms, historical artifacts, and educational programs about 18th-century life.
Another interesting aspect of Prospect Lefferts Gardens is the Kings Theatre, a lavishly restored historic theater on Flatbush Avenue. Originally opened in 1929 as one of the five Loew's "Wonder Theatres," it was closed in 1977 and remained vacant until its grand restoration and reopening in 2015. The theater is now a venue for concerts, films, and performances, boasting a stunning French Baroque style interior.
The neighborhood also celebrates its Caribbean heritage with the annual West Indian American Day Carnival, which culminates in a grand parade on Labor Day. This event attracts millions of attendees and features vibrant costumes, music, and food representing the diverse cultures of the Caribbean community.
Prospect Lefferts Gardens is also home to the Flatbush Trees, a unique public art installation located at the intersection of Flatbush Avenue and Ocean Avenue. The installation consists of metal tree structures adorned with colorful mosaics, serving as a community landmark and gathering spot.
Both the Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Lefferts Gardens contribute significantly to Brooklyn's cultural and historical landscape, offering a blend of artistic, historical, and community-focused attractions.