Seneca Village, a historic community of predominantly Black property owners, is being recognized to mark its 200-year anniversary. The Central Park Conservancy plans to explore the legacy of this once-thriving neighborhood, which flourished in the early to mid-19th century, through discussions and programs supported by the Mellon Foundation. The aim is to educate the public about Seneca Village while addressing its historical erasure due to the creation of Central Park. The Conservancy seeks permanent and thoughtful ways to commemorate this essential part of New York's history beyond traditional memorials.
"Not every New Yorker knows about Seneca Village and that's something we want to change... the erasure and displacement that came as a result of building the park, we want to acknowledge this history and the importance."
"Founded in 1825, Seneca Village was an area where dozens of free Black citizens of New York City owned properties... with Manhattan's downtown area being overcrowded and unwelcoming."
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