*This webinar is part of our NYAC Summer Encore Series — a limited-time showcase of archived programs, re-airing exclusively this August*
You’ve probably seen the red tram shuttling back and forth to Roosevelt Island, but how much do you really know about this two-mile-long piece of land wedged between Manhattan and Queens? From global scientific breakthroughs to an exposé that sparked mental health reform in America, this is the story of one of New York's most peculiar islands — one that continues to be written.
Join New York Adventure Club as we explore Roosevelt Island, a narrow island between the New York City boroughs of Manhattan and Queens that has been home to everything including Dutch farms, rehabilitation institutions, asylums, hospitals, and scientific laboratories.
Led by New York City historian Kevin Draper, our virtual journey to Roosevelt Island will include:
- A historical overview of Roosevelt Island and why it was once called Minnehanonck by the Native Americans, Hog Island by the Dutch, Blackwell Island by the English, and Welfare Island by the city
- A look at its most historic sites including the Chapel of the Good Shepherd (1888) and the Blackwell House, a 1796 dutch farmhouse that is NYC’s 6th oldest landmark
- Why Roosevelt Island — along with many other islands throughout New York — were used as sites for hospitals, wards, and asylums (and how some of those still-standing structures are being used for now)
- A virtual trip to the south side of the island, which contains the FDR Four Freedoms Park, Smallpox Hospital (NYC’s only landmarked ruin), and abandoned Strecker Laboratory (the first institution in the nation for pathological and bacteriological research)
- A discussion around the newly built Cornell University campus and future redevelopment plans for the island
See you there, virtually!
*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser
***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!
About Kevin
“I am a New York City Historian, experienced licensed guide, and co-founder and director of New York Historical Tours on a mission to provide exceptional and unforgettable experiences with the highest level of service. I will give you a front row seat and exciting insight into the city’s dynamic history, rich culture, diverse architecture, show you unique treasures and share the fascinating secrets hidden between the city streets.
Kevin has led historical talks and lectures for top universities and Fortune 500 companies and is a respected historical consultant for major media and publications including CBS, ABC, Bloomberg, The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal. Kevin Draper also provides inspiring presentations and does consulting on any subject as it relates to New York City History.
http://www.newyorkhistoricaltours.com
Testimonials
"It gave a complete background of Roosevelt island and how it came to be and how it is today." -Annie
"The interesting information I learned. Can't wait to go visit the island myself and see it all in person." -Marie
"The speaker was very engaging and knew his material well. He inspired me to visit soon." -Cheryl
"It was full of details and anecdotes, images/recording, and concise descriptions that moved along at a good pace." -Sue Ellen
"The speaker was very knowledgeable and provided great pictures." -Patty
"Lots of slides & interesting information." -Ellen
"Guide was so knowledgeable and interesting. good presentation skills and delivery." -Noelle
"The speaker was clear and understandable. The topic itself was interesting to me. I also liked that the presenter stayed later to answer all the questions posed in the Questions tab." -Patricia
"The illustrations were terrific and his lecture was wonderful." -Barbara
"This was the best event we have watched. We totally enjoyed it and will visit Roosevelt Island. Kevin Draper was knowledgable and well organized." -Alyson
"Guide very informative and pretty good presenter." -Janyce
"Loved the history and that I could watch it when I had the time to enjoy it." -Elizabeth
"It was a huge amount of wonderful information woven together in a great way - not a boring second the whole time!! Loved it." -Kristin
"I enjoyed the photos of different areas on Roosevelt Island the best, including, as always, the vintage ones." -Gabrielle
"I was informed very well about Roosevelt Island." -Cynthia
"A nice blending of history and municipal circumstances and tourist info. The multiple buildings made Roosevelt such an interesting island!" -Sheila
"All of it was very eye-opening and educational." -Alexandria
"It was very informative and cool. Makes me want to take a tour." -Laurie
"The moderator was very knowledgeable and moved along at a good pace. Also enjoyed the few anecdotes along the way." -Isabelle
"The pace was good. Presenter was very knowledgeable and had good energy. 😃" -Elizabeth
"Loved learning the history of the island as well as how they relate to the present-day island. I also enjoyed the history of the historical figures with connections to the island." -Martha
"Having visited the island a few years back, I knew some of the info., but Kevin did a remarkable job with his presentation." -Marilyn
"Full of interesting historical information, very well presented. Love your webinars!!!!!!!" -Heidi
"The presenter was very knowledgeable and obviously passionate about the history of Roosevelt Island. I briefly lived on Roosevelt Island in 2002, and wish I had known about all of the interesting landmarks at the time I lived there." -Elizabeth
"I loved it all" -Kathleen
"I knew nothing about Roosevelt island so all the information was valuable" -Christine
Disclaimer
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Categories: Virtual, Landmarks
