Seneca Village, existing between 82nd and 89th Streets and Seventh and Eighth Avenues, became a multi-ethnic community, notably home to a large Black population, alongside Irish and German immigrants.
On July 21, 1853, New York City used eminent domain to acquire the land where Seneca Village was located, leading to the destruction of a vibrant community for the construction of Central Park.
Before becoming Central Park, the area was a thriving neighborhood with churches, homes, and schools, which served around 1,600 residents, showcasing the rich cultural fabric that existed.
The history of Seneca Village reflects a tragic narrative of displacement, illustrating the broader patterns of urban development during a time when minority communities were often overlooked.
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