Top 10 Forgotten Landmarks in New York City
One of the most well-known metropolises in the world, New York City is visited by millions of tourists each year. While there is no shortage of notable landmarks, museums and historic buildings, all of which are worth a visit, there are many sites which are equally important but are often neglected by tour guides. Read on to learn about these forgotten landmarks.
Blackwell Lighthouse
Constructed in 1874 and still standing on the northern tip of Roosevelt Island, the Blackwell Lighthouse has managed to retain its architectural integrity throughout the years. However, besides its simple, Gothic-style appearance, this forgotten landmark offers something a little more interesting; a history that is intertwined with the infamous Municipal Lunatic Asylum, which was also located on the island years ago. Legend has it that one of the patients of this hospital actually built the lighthouse, but whether or not this is folklore, a sense of eeriness and alleged paranormal activity has nonetheless taken over the site and made it a unique destination.
While one does not normally use the words ‘landmark’ and ‘subway station’ in the same sentence, in the case of the Knickerbocker Door, this is a very logical correlation. A locked doorway with the name ‘KNICKERBOCKER’ written on top once led to the Knickerbocker Hotel at 1466 Broadway. The idea of having a direct entrance from the Times Square shuttle platform to the hotel was an extremely innovative feature. After closing in 1920 and remaining as an office building for the following decades, today the Knickerbocker Hotel is back in business and hopefully ready to open its underground door once more.
1. Morris-Jumel Mansion
Museum
2. Ambrose Lightship
Museum
3. Alice Austen House
Museum
4. Stonewall Inn
Bar, Gay Bar, LGBTQ Bar, American
Located in New York City, the Stonewall Inn is anything but your average bar. It was here, in 1969, that the LGBT community rose up against the unjust laws that were in place and fought against a police raid on the tavern. While it was illegal for gay people to be served alcohol or even dance together, the patrons at the Stonewall Inn stood up in the face of oppression. After the initial fight sparked a series of riots the following nights, each growing larger in number, the Gay Rights movement had officially begun. Today, it is still an operating establishment and a National Historic Landmark.
5. Voorlezer House
Museum, Building, Church, School
6. Christ Church Riverdale
Church
7. Wyckoff House
Museum
8. Old West Farms Soldiers Cemetery
Cemetery
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