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Bay Ridge
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January 19, 2004 20:19:18
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History of Bay Ridge
Bay Ridge Was originally part of a tract of land that was purchased from the Nyack Indians in 1652 and settled by the Dutch in 1653. It lies at the southwestern tip of Brooklyn. The area was originally called Yellow Hook for the yellow clay found there. But after an outbreak of yellow fever in 1853 its name grew out of favor and it became known as Bay Ridge, elaborating upon the area's most prominent geographical features, the magnificent views furnished from a ridge towering above the entrance to New York Bay. As the 20th century neared, Bay Ridge evolved into a wealthy residential community. Many rich industrialists built summer mansions along the hills overlooking the entrance to New York Harbor. What is now Fort Hamilton High School (Shore Road & 85 St) was then the Crescent Athletic Club, a private club that attracted wealthy Manhattanites who then became the center of Brooklyn's high society.
The arrival of the Fourth Avenue subway line in 1915 altered the complexion of Bay Ridge; once a rural suburban retreat, it evolved into a more urban community. Most of the mansions and villas built near the turn of the century gave way to high rise apartment buildings. Fontbonne Hall Academy (9901 Shore Road) still remains. Today, homes situated on the peak of the Ridge between 80 and 83 Streets, and Colonial to Shore Roads, are still among the most expensive in the city.
Most of the houses in Bay Ridge are well cared for one and two family brick, brownstone, limestone, or frame houses, with bay or bow fronts, garages, basements and well manicured lawns. Many of the older apartment buildings have interior court yards. The Bay Ridge Special Zoning District, established in 1978, mandated that only buildings of three stories or less be allowed on residential streets and buildings of no more than eight stories be allowed on avenues. Bay Ridge, bordered to the west by the water of the Narrows, still affords its residents a grandstand seat to beautiful views.
Served by Community District 10
Zip Code: 11209, 11220
Claims to Fame:
Today it is the Verrazano Bridge, that dominates the area, its span always in view. The bridge joins the boroughs of Brooklyn and Staten Island. It was opened in 1964, named for Giovanni de Verrazano, who explored the entrance to New York Harbor in 1524. At the time of its completion, it was the world's longest suspension bridge. On a warm summer day, the breeze off the bay is reason enough to visit the airy, residential neighborhood. During the spring and summer, graceful sailboats and sporty speedboats are a regular sight along the Narrows. Owl's Head Park, situated on a bluff overlooking the Bay is a choice spot for weekend picnicking. In the fall, lush foliage turns to brilliant hues. In the winter a crisp sea breeze prompts the color to your cheeks. The drive along the Belt Parkway, running parallel to Shore Road on one side and the Narrows on the other, offers a picturesque scene of freighters and ocean liners anchored in the water. In the evening, the lights of Staten Island and the Manhattan Skyline present an inspiring view.
When the sun goes down, the areas of Third, Fourth and Fifth Avenues from 60 to 101 Street are lit up with scores of restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs.
The Third Avenue Merchants' Association of Bay Ridge is one of the oldest associations of its kind in New York. Every autumn it sponsors the Third Avenue Festival, where thousands flock to join in the carnival atmosphere, with live music, a wide variety of foods for tasting and shopping for unique items at the boutiques along the avenue.
Third Avenue is also the site of the annual Ragamuffin Parade, a Halloween celebration, where children of all ages dress up in their favorite costumes and march in procession.
If it is architecture that appeals to you, there are many beautiful homes to be seen along Shore Road, Colonial Road and Ridge Boulevard, one of the oddest being The Gingerbread House (84 Street & Narrows Avenue), built in 1917 of stone and imitation thatch, is a unique structure that brings to mind the fairy tales of childhood.
Bay Ridge, like so many other areas of Brooklyn, is home to many parks and recreational facilities.
Leif Ericson Park (66 - 67 Street, from 4 Avenue to Fort Hamilton Parkway) is where soccer abounds.
Owl's Head Park (Owl's Head Court and 68 Street ), overlooking New York Harbor, is the perfect picnic spot to lay out your blanket and drink in the seascape.
Shore Road Park is a 2.5 mile expanse that runs from the Verrazano Bridge to 69 Street. Cyclists, skaters, joggers and walkers alike take advantage of the views, the breeze and the brittle salt air.
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