Marcus Garvey Park is a 20.16-acre park located on the border between the Harlem and East Harlem neighborhoods of Manhattan, New York City. The park is centered on a massive and steep outcropping of schist, interrupts the flow of Fifth Avenue traffic, which is routed around the park via Mount Morris Park West. The park is also bounded by 120th Street to the south, 124th Street to the north, and Madison Avenue to the east.
The park was created in 1840 and was originally named for Robert Morris, then the mayor of New York City. It was renamed after black activist and businessman Marcus Garvey in 1973. Marcus Garvey Park contains flat lawns and playing fields surrounding the schist outcropping, as well as the Harlem Fire Watchtower, a New York City designated landmark. It is operated and maintained by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation.
History
The land that is now Marcus Garvey Park was originally part of the estate of Metje Cornelius Kortright. In 1840, the city of New York purchased the land and created Mount Morris Park. The park was named after Robert Morris, a Founding Father of the United States who served as the first mayor of New York City.
Mount Morris Park was a popular destination for recreation and relaxation in the 19th century. The park featured a variety of amenities, including a bowling green, a bandstand, and a zoo. The park was also home to a number of significant events, including the 1863 Emancipation Day Parade and the 1893 Pan-American Exposition.
In the early 20th century, Mount Morris Park began to decline. The park was neglected by the city and became a haven for crime and vagrancy. In 1973, the park was renamed Marcus Garvey Park in honor of the black nationalist leader.
Revitalization
In the years since its renaming, Marcus Garvey Park has undergone a significant revitalization. The park has been cleaned up and renovated, and a number of new amenities have been added, including a playground, a basketball court, and a swimming pool. The park is now a vibrant community space that is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Hidden Gems
Marcus Garvey Park is home to a number of hidden gems, including:
The Harlem Fire Watchtower: This 47-foot cast-iron tower was built in 1856 and is a New York City designated landmark. The tower offers stunning views of the park and the surrounding neighborhood.
The Marcus Garvey Monument: This bronze statue of Marcus Garvey was dedicated in 1987. The monument is a popular gathering place for community events and protests.
The Malcolm X Shabazz Fountain: This fountain was dedicated in 1992 in honor of the civil rights leader Malcolm X. The fountain is a popular spot for people to relax and cool off on hot days.
Visiting Marcus Garvey Park
Marcus Garvey Park is open from 6am to 1am daily. The park is free to enter and there is no parking fee.
The park is easily accessible by public transportation. The 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, train can all be taken to the 125th Street station. The M1 bus also stops near the park.
What to Do at Marcus Garvey Park?
There are a variety of things to do at Marcus Garvey Park, including:
Relax on the grass
Play sports
Swim in the pool
Take a walk or jog
Have a picnic
Attend a concert or festival
Visit the Harlem Fire Watchtower
See the Marcus Garvey Monument
Relax at the Malcolm X Shabazz Fountain
Conclusion
Marcus Garvey Park is a beautiful and historic park that is located in the heart of Harlem. The park is a popular destination for people of all ages and backgrounds who come to relax, play, and enjoy the outdoors.
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