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Greenwood Heights - Brooklyn - NYC

I’ve only just begun my explorations of Greenwood Heights. 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!

Along Gowanus Bay in western Brooklyn is Greenwood Heights, home to the historic Greenwood Cemetery. To the north are the neighborhoods of Gowanus and South Slope and to the south is Sunset Park.

Greenwood Heights slideshow:

The Neighborhood

Greenwood Heights is a neighborhood of contrasts. Along the shore are vestiges of the neighborhood’s more industrial past. Further inland are residential blocks nestled between 2nd - 5th Avenues. And of course, the eastern portion of the neighborhood is dominated by the quiet rolling hills and trees of Greenwood Cemetery - well worth a visit in its own right.

Green-Wood Cemetery has been an iconic landmark of the neighborhood for over 150 years. In recent years, the area has experienced gentrification, with new residential developments and local businesses popping up. However, Greenwood Heights still retains its quaint charm and community-driven atmosphere. The neighborhood is home to a diverse mix of residents, including young families and longtime residents who have lived in the area for generations. With its prime location and strong sense of community, Greenwood Heights is a hidden gem that truly represents the best of Brooklyn.

Greenwood Heights is a neighborhood in Brooklyn that has a rich and interesting history. Originally home to Native American tribes, the area was settled by Dutch colonizers in the 1600s and went through various name changes before being officially named Greenwood Heights in 1905. The neighborhood was once an industrial hub, with factories and warehouses lining its streets and serving as a major source of employment for its residents. However, in the mid-twentieth century, many of these businesses shut down, and the area saw a decline in population and economic activity. Since then, Greenwood Heights has experienced a resurgence, with new businesses and residents moving in and revitalizing the area. Today, it is a vibrant and diverse community with a unique identity and a bright future.

Greenwood Heights, a neighborhood in Brooklyn, derived its name from the nearby Green-Wood Cemetery. The cemetery, founded in 1838, was named after the surrounding hilly terrain covered with lush green trees. It became a popular destination for some of the most notable figures in American history. Greenwood Heights transformed from a rural community to an urbanized area when the cemetery expanded and the elevated railroad arrived in the 1880s. Today, the neighborhood is known for its iconic cemetery, outdoor recreational opportunities, and diverse community.

Greenwood Heights, Brooklyn is a neighborhood filled with notable landmarks. One of the most famous is Green-Wood Cemetery, a 478-acre park that is the resting place for many celebrities and historical figures. The cemetery features beautiful monuments and sculptures, as well as winding roads that make it a popular spot for walkers and joggers. Another landmark is the Brooklyn Army Terminal, which was built in 1918 and used during World War II to assemble, store, and ship military supplies. Today, it houses a variety of businesses, including movie studios and commercial offices. The neighborhood also has the Industry City complex, a group of historic warehouses that have been renovated into modern office spaces, retail stores, and food markets. Finally, the tallest building in the area is the beautiful Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, a Catholic church that boasts towering spires and stunning stained glass windows.

Greenwood Heights, Brooklyn has been home to a number of notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous residents was Anthony Fasano, a former tight end for the Miami Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs in the National Football League (NFL). Another notable figure is author and playwright Dan Fante, who is known for his works of fiction such as "Chump Change" and "Mooch". Not to be forgotten is respected artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, who spent a significant amount of time in Greenwood Heights during his short but impactful career. These famous individuals have each left their unique mark on the neighborhood, contributing to its vibrant and diverse character.

BROOKLYN NEIGHBORHOODS

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All photography provided by Samuel Walters