Prospect Park is one of Brooklyn’s most treasured destinations with more than 10 million visitors each year. Since it opened in the mid-19th century, the park has been the site of celebrations, demonstrations, and everyday activities. From monuments and statues to pastoral vistas, this walk will guide you through Prospect Park's historic points of interest. More information about Prospect Park's history can be viewed here.

James S. T. Stranahan Statue in Grand Army Plaza, unknown date. Stranahan was a Congressman from New York between 1855 and 1857 and later was an influential municipal official in Brooklyn. He was president of the Brooklyn Park Commission and helped secure funds and political capital for the planned Prospect Park. As a trustee of the New York and Brooklyn Bridge Company, he presided over the dedication of the Brooklyn Bridge in 1883. The bronze statue, designed by Frederick William MacMonnies with a pedestal by Standford White, was dedicated in 1891.

Helen and Hugh L. Carey and family posed in front of the Stranahan Monument during the Prospect Park Centennial celebrations, 1966.

By Emily Byun Starting from childhood, we cherish the idea of a clean bathroom, whether through the joy of a refreshing bath or relieving ourselves in the comfort of our home. Yet, beyond private spaces, New Yorkers and pedestrians struggle to find dignified places for personal relief and bathing. Studies reveal a stark reality – only one public bathroom exists for every 6,000 New Yorkers, ranking NYC the 93rd worst among the largest U.S. cities in public bathrooms per capita. This makes bathroom accessibility a paid privilege with individuals often purchasing an overpriced water bottle for restroom access or resorting to public urination. The privatization of restrooms is especially stark for unhoused New Yorkers whose attempt to relieve themselves is often criminalized, and yet where are they supposed to go? Beyond toilet usage, bathing too has evolved into a highly commercialized venture. During the 19th century, tenement apartments underscored the need for bathhouses due to a lack of hot water in many buildings. These public bathhouses became vital third places, where generations mingled to soak and converse. Sadly, only a handful of such historical places remain, their existence reshaped mainly by the AIDS Epidemic in the 1980s and now are characterized by ongoing inflated prices. What would wider access to all facets of bathroom facilities involve? Given the daily necessity of using toilets, bathing, and the need to conserve precious resources, how can we create environments that prioritize accessibility, sustainability, and human connection?

There is no place like New York — and there is certainly nothing like growing up here. This collection will give you a look into the lives of New York City's youngest and cutest, dating from the late 19th to the mid-20th century.