Flatbush Avenue, one of Brooklyn's oldest thoroughfares, stretches approximately 9.9 miles from the Manhattan Bridge to the southern end of Brooklyn at Marine Park. It is named after the Dutch village of Vlacke Bos, meaning "flat woodland." This avenue serves as a major artery in Brooklyn, connecting various neighborhoods.
Prospect Lefferts Gardens, located in the Flatbush section, is a historic district known for its early 20th-century architecture. The neighborhood's development began in 1893, spearheaded by James Lefferts, whose family owned the land since the 17th century. The area is renowned for its Victorian and Edwardian homes, with many buildings designed by prominent architects like Slee & Bryson.
The Prospect Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, borders the northern edge of Prospect Lefferts Gardens. This 526-acre park is a cornerstone of Brooklyn's green space and includes landmarks such as the Prospect Park Zoo and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, both of which are key attractions.
One hidden gem of Flatbush Avenue is the Kings Theatre, originally opened in 1929 as one of the five Loew’s “Wonder Theatres.” Closed in 1977, it underwent a $95 million restoration and reopened in 2015. The theatre's opulent design features French Baroque interiors, making it one of the most beautiful performance venues in New York City.
Another lesser-known fact is the Flatbush Caton Market, established in 2000 by local vendors who sold their goods on the streets. It provides a space for Caribbean and African merchants, preserving the cultural heritage of the community. The market is named after Dr. Susan Smith McKinney Steward, New York State's first African-American female physician.
The Lefferts Historic House in Prospect Park offers a glimpse into 19th-century farm life. Built by the Lefferts family in the late 18th century, it now functions as a museum, showcasing period rooms, farming tools, and historic artifacts.
Flatbush Avenue is home to several educational institutions, including Brooklyn College, founded in 1930. The college is known for its Georgian-style campus and has produced notable alumni such as Senator Bernie Sanders and actor James Franco.
The Rogers Avenue and Nostrand Avenue corridors are key commercial strips within Prospect Lefferts Gardens, featuring a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops. These avenues are integral to the neighborhood’s vibrant, multicultural character.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the area experienced significant demographic shifts, becoming predominantly African-American and Caribbean. This cultural diversity is reflected in the variety of cuisines, festivals, and community events that take place throughout the year.
Flatbush Avenue and Prospect Lefferts Gardens are also known for their contributions to the arts. The PLG Arts organization promotes local artists and hosts events, fostering a rich cultural landscape within the community.
These elements combine to make Flatbush Avenue and Prospect Lefferts Gardens a unique blend of history, culture, and community life in Brooklyn.