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MASPETH - Queens - NYC

I’ve only just begun my explorations of Maspeth. 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!

Maspeth is America - so says the neighborhood in many ways - from signs, to flags, to buntings, to the spirit of the people who live there.

Maspeth slideshow (coming soon):

The Neighborhood

On the western border of Queens is the blue-collar, patriotic neighborhood of Maspeth. To its north are the neighborhoods of Sunnyside and Woodside. To the east lie Elmhurst and Middle Village. To the south is Ridgewood. And to the west lies Brooklyn’s East Williamsburg.

Mostly residential, Maspeth is a proud neighborhood. Proud of the accomplishments of its denizens and proud of its country.

Maspeth, located in the Western region of Queens, is a quintessential New York City neighborhood, boasting a mix of small-town charm and city accessibility. This residential community is dotted with a range of housing options, from cozy row houses to large multi-family buildings. Maspeth is home to a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse mix of residents defining the area's cultural landscape. There is no shortage of green spaces for residents to enjoy, including Juniper Valley Park, Maurice Park, and Mount Zion Cemetery. With its convenient access to major highways, public transportation, and proximity to Manhattan, Maspeth offers a suburban oasis within city limits.

Maspeth, Queens is believed to have derived its name from the Native American word “mespeatches” which means “at the bad water place” in the Mespeatches tribe’s language. The neighborhood was originally inhabited by the Mespeatches tribe and later settled by Dutch and English colonizers. Maspeth’s location near Newtown Creek, which was known for its polluted waters, may have contributed to its name. Over time, Maspeth grew into a diverse neighborhood with a mixture of industrial and residential areas. Today, the neighborhood continues to evolve with new developments and a thriving community.

Maspeth, Queens is a neighborhood with a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. Originally inhabited by the Maspeth Native American tribe, the area was later settled by Dutch and English farmers in the 17th century. During the Industrial Revolution, Maspeth became a hub for manufacturing and was home to factories producing goods ranging from furniture to chemicals. In the early 20th century, the neighborhood became a popular destination for immigrants, particularly those from Eastern Europe and Italy. Today, Maspeth is a diverse community with a mix of residential and commercial areas, though it still retains some of its manufacturing legacy. The area is also known for its proximity to the Newtown Creek, which has had a significant impact on its development over the years.

Maspeth is a neighborhood in the borough of Queens that features a number of major landmarks and attractions. For instance, the Mount Zion Cemetery is a historical site that dates back to the 1890s. As one of the oldest cemeteries in New York City, it reflects the history of the area, and offers a peaceful and green escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Another notable landmark is the Grand Avenue Clock, located in the heart of Maspeth. This clock boasts an impressive design, with sculptures of two eagles perched atop the structure. Lastly, Maspeth is also home to Juniper Valley Park, a 55-acre green space where visitors can enjoy various recreational activities such as sports, jogging, or picnicking. Overall, Maspeth offers a mixture of historical and natural attractions that are worth exploring.

Maspeth, Queens has been home to several famous individuals throughout history. One of the most notable figures from Maspeth is Mae West, an actress and writer known for her wit and charm. She grew up on Grand Avenue and began performing in local vaudeville shows before making a name for herself in Hollywood. Another famous person from Maspeth is Vincent D'Onofrio, a versatile actor known for his roles in "Full Metal Jacket," "Law and Order: Criminal Intent," and "Men in Black." He attended the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in Manhattan, but spent much of his teenage years in Maspeth. Finally, legendary baseball player Phil Rizzuto was born and raised in Maspeth. He played for the New York Yankees and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994. These talented individuals have helped put Maspeth on the map and continue to inspire the next generation of artists and athletes.

Highlight Gallery (coming soon)

Click here for the full MASPETh photo gallery:

All photography provided by Samuel Walters