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EAST NEW YORK - Brooklyn - NYC

I’ve only just begun my explorations of East New York. I will be returning in the near future for a dedicated tour of the neighborhood, so please keep checking the Updates page and my YouTube channel!

East New York is on the eastern border of Brooklyn, adjacent to Queens. To the north are its subsections of Cypress Hills and City Line. To the south is Starrett City and Jamaica Bay, while Canarsie and Brownsville are to the west. Tucked into the heart of this neighborhood is the subsection of New Lots.

East New York slideshow (Coming Soon):

The Neighborhood

East New York is often seen as one of the more troubled neighborhoods in the Five Boroughs. But those that live there are proud of its history and culture. Whether it’s from the public housing or historic residential blocks, there’s a wealth of energy from this underrated neighborhood of Brooklyn.

East New York is a neighborhood located in the eastern part of Brooklyn, New York City. Historically known as a predominantly working-class and African-American community, East New York has experienced significant changes in recent years, including an influx of new residents and an increase in development. Despite these changes, East New York retains its unique character, with vibrant street life and numerous community events throughout the year. The neighborhood is home to several parks, including Highland Park and Shirley Chisholm State Park, which offer residents ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Additionally, the neighborhood's diverse culinary scene, featuring Caribbean, Latin American, and soul food cuisines, is a major draw for both locals and visitors alike.

East New York, Brooklyn got its name from its location in relation to the original Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam (now Manhattan). The area was located to the east of the town of New York, which is now known as Downtown Manhattan. Originally settled by the Dutch in 1636, the area was primarily rural farmland until the mid-19th century, when the construction of the Long Island Rail Road spurred development. As Brooklyn became a bustling city in its own right, East New York became a hub for manufacturing and transportation. Today, the neighborhood is still an important transportation hub, serving as a major stop on the L train and hosting several bus lines.

East New York, located in the easternmost part of Brooklyn, has a rich and diverse history. Originally settled by the Dutch in the mid-17th century, the area was primarily rural until the early 1900s. It wasn't until the opening of the Livonia Avenue Elevated Subway in 1922 that East New York became a more populated and developed area. Throughout the 20th century, the neighborhood experienced both economic growth and decline, with periods of urban decay and a rise in crime rates in the 1970s and 80s. However, in recent years, East New York has undergone a significant transformation with the development of new housing, retail spaces, and community initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for its residents. Despite these changes, East New York remains home to a diverse population and a proud history.

East New York, Brooklyn has been the home of many notable and influential figures. One of the most famous is the legendary rapper The Notorious B.I.G. who was born and raised in the area. His presence can still be felt in the neighborhood through murals and graffiti art. Another prominent figure is the award-winning actress Rosie Perez, who was born in Bushwick but grew up in East New York and is known for her roles in films like "White Men Can't Jump" and "Fearless." Additionally, Former Congressman Edolphus Towns represented East New York in the United States House of Representatives for over 30 years and has been a champion for affordable housing and job creation in the community.East New York, Brooklyn is a bustling neighborhood with a rich history that boasts several major landmarks and attractions. Some of the notable landmarks include the Pink Houses, one of the largest housing developments in New York City, and the New Lots Avenue Station, which dates back to 1885 and serves as a major transportation hub. Another notable attraction is the Gateway Center Mall, which houses over 50 retail stores, restaurants, a movie theater, and a Target. For those interested in nature, the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge offers over 9,000 acres of protected marshland and trails for birdwatching and hiking. Finally, there's the Brooklyn Sports Club, a popular gym with a track, basketball courts, and a pool. With these landmarks and attractions, East New York has something to offer for everyone.

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All photography provided by Samuel Walters