Sunday, August 7, 2016

Battery Park, Manhattan


During my visit to New York, my husband and I had a dinner date with friends in another of our favorite restaurants that was located in Battery Park in lower Manhattan. We often spent time in this southern shoreline park when we lived in New York, and I've blogged about it in the past, click here and here if you would to read those posts.

This area has been known as "The Battery" since the 17th century when the area was the Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam. At the time an artillery battery was locate there to protect the seaward approach to the town.   The park was created by landfill beginning in 1855, as a landscaped open space in a heavily developed downtown. Skyscrapers now rim the original land surrounding the park.
(All photos in this post will enlarge for easier viewing if clicked on)


Much of the park consists of an esplanade along the shoreline with views in the distance of the Statue of Liberty. This bench area and garden was called "The Garden of Remembrance." Planted with native grasses and perennial flowers it is dedicated to "those who lost their lives on September eleventh, to the survivors, and to those who come seeking renewed optimism and hope."


 We noticed that The Sphere was in a new location from when we saw it last. It is a large metallic sculpture by Fritz Koenig, as a monument to world peace. It once stood in the middle of the plaza that was between the original World Trade Towers and was salvaged after the disaster.  It is a temporary installation and may be moved to Liberty Park in the future.  We remember when it was surrounded by a fountain and flower boxes when it was in the World Trade Center Plaza and it still gives us chills to look upon it and think back to that fateful day.


Toward the northwestern end of the park stands Castle Clinton, the last remnant of the defensive fort that was built in 1811.  It was named in honor of New York City Mayor DeWitt Clinton in 1915.  It is perhaps best remembered as America's first immigration station, prior to Ellis Island, where more than 8 million people arrived in the US from 1855 to 1890, when it was called Castle Garden. Afterward it was re-purposed with many other functions, including being one of the first aquariums in the United States. Today is is administered by the National Park Service as a National Monument, and is a departure point for visitors to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.


Nearby is a stirring sculpture entitled "The Immigrants."  The inscription on the base of the sculpture reads: "Dedicated to the people of all nations who entered America through Castle Garden in Memory of Samuel Rudin 1896-1975 whose parents arrived in America in 1883."  According to the NYC Parks web site the sculpture's "figures expressive poses emphasize the struggle and toil inherent in the experience of the immigrant or dislocated person."  It's a very dramatic and poignant sculpture to see.


A happy new development we saw in Battery Park was a beautiful and very unique carousel called the Sea Glass Carousel.  


Built with a musical underwater theme the rider sits on an iridescent fish that glides through and aquatic adventure. You can watch a video of it on this New York Times web site. It was quite enchanting!


If you look closely at the bottom of the photo above you can see the East Coast Memorial eagle.This memorial commemorates those soldiers, sailors, marines, coast guardsmen, merchant marines and airmen who met their deaths in the service of the United States in the western waters of the Atlantic Ocean during World War II.


A total of 4,067 lives were lost, and their names, rank and home state are inscribed on nearby eight 19 foot high granite walls.


The New York Korean War Veterans Memorial was of interest to me as my father was a vet of both WWII and Korea.  The memorial, dedicated in 1991, was designed by Welsh born artist Mac Adams and it is notable as one of the first Korean War memorials erected in the United States


This sight of the juxtaposition of old and new in New York City made me smile.  The red brick building in front of the towering black skyscraper which is located at 7 State Street, between Pearl and Water Street is the James Watson House, built in 1793 and extended in 1806. James Watson was the first Speaker of the New York State Assembly and a Federalist member of the New York and United State Senates.  He later became a prosperous importer-exporter. The house was also the residence of Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first America Catholic Saint. The home is currently occupied by the rectory of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Church and is part of the Seton Shine.


We had time before meeting our friends for dinner so we walked across to see the buildings close up...


...and we went inside the church.  The story behind this church is very interesting. It began through the inspiration of Charlotte Grace O'Brien, who was the daughter of the famous Irish patriot and rebel William Smith O'Brien.  Charlotte's concern for young female Irish  immigrants who were being victimized in America in 1881 led to her establishing of an Irish immigrant mission and then a church serving the people of lower Manhattan.  You can read more of this history on the church web site and the Irish Mission at Watson House on this link.


As we walked back towards the restaurant in Battery Park we saw the "Cool Globes" art exhibit designed to raise awareness about global warming and spark practical solutions.  It will be on display until September, 2016. Unfortunately, we did not have time to examine the twelves globes too closely but I though they made an interesting foreground for the new World Trade Center building.


We finally arrived at Giginos Trattoria at Wagner Park, located at 20 Battery Place.  In summer the restaurant places a large tent outside in the back, so that diners can enjoy dining al fresco and.....


...appreciate this view of the Statue of Liberty!


Since we were dining with friends, I did not take any photographs of our dinner, but if you look at Giginos menu you can see that they have wonderfully authentic Italian food. Everything was delicious!


After dinner we took a stroll along the esplanade as the sun set.


 We saw this pretty view of Jersey City, New Jersey across the river....



...and had a last look at the World Trade Center in the distance.  

We had a wonderful time in New York, and we saw and did many more things on our trip, but I'm going to save them for a future post and return to what I have been doing in Colorado this summer on my next post. When people ask me if I miss New York, I have to admit it will always hold a special place in my heart.  I am happy I lived in the city so many years and experienced much of its attractions, but I am happy to be spending this time of my life in the west and living a different lifestyle, and especially living close to our children and grandchildren. It has been a wonderful summer so far....hope you are also enjoying everything good about this season!




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58 comments:

Lady Fi said...

Such gorgeous shots.

Mersad said...

I have a NYC trip coming up in October so your posts from your visit will be helpful to me :) Hope I can even get back to you with a question or two if I have some.

From the Kitchen said...

I had my first cup of coffee with your post this morning. I enjoyed them both.

Best,
Bonnie

eileeninmd said...

Hello Pat, wonderful series from your NYC visit. I love the sculptures and views of the park. The carousel fish and globes are my favorite. Great post. Happy Sunday, enjoy your day and the new week ahead!

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

I'm glad you are able to travel back and enjoy spending time with friends and seeing things that mean so much to you and to all of us. I love those cool globes! Hugs, Diane

podso said...

Enjoyed this post so much. My husband and I spent a lot of time in this area when we were dating (we'd ride the ferry) so I enjoyed seeing it again.

Gracie said...

Oh God....I want so bad to come back there..

Anonymous said...

The sculptures are amazing and those sunsets stunning. A wonderful post Pat!

Michelle said...

These photos are fantastic.

The Joy of Home with Martha Ellen said...

Pat, I enjoyed this post very much. New York City is just full of history that many walk past and don't realize. Thank you for showing such beautiful photos of your former home. I'm so happy for you to live close to your family and enjoy your grandchildren. That's really what life is about. ♥

Stacey said...

Pat, you know that every time I see your pictures, I have the urge to hop on a plane and head somewhere!!

Yogi♪♪♪ said...

Very informative post. I learned a lot thanks to you.

Linda W. said...

I loved your tour of New York city and the history and art.

Minoru Saito said...

Hi! Nice captures. My daugter and I went to Battery park and watched the statue of Liberty a few year ago.
We looked the Muical of Lion King at a theather near the Broadway street. Thanks for sharing.

Maggie said...

Really enjoyed seeing this area with you this morning, the memorials, the history and scenery just fascinating. My sister and step mum will be in NYC next month celebrating Mums 80th I'm going to send her a link to your post so she can add Battery Park to their itinerary.

Janice / Dancing with Sunflowers said...

I loved your walk around the Battery Park. I was there 25 years ago - although obviously a lot has changed since then, but I saw some things I recognised and more that made me think a return visit is long overdue. Beautiful photographs. I especially loved the sunset and the old / new. And the Statue of Liberty is always a favourite.

bj said...

I, too, am having my first cup of coffee while going along with you on your beautiful time in NY...I would love to go there someday...

Rhonda Albom said...

I saw "The Immigrants" sculpture when I was in New York City after having seen the Statue of Liberty. I saw several of the statues downtown but only one of the ones you have in photos. The city has so much art and you need many days to see it.

riitta k said...

Great photos and mosaics Pat. It was really lovely to see these, for I have not visited US - so far. Have a great week.

Snap said...

Thanks for the tour around Battery Park. I always enjoy seeing NYC from your eyes! Have a great week.

Marcelle said...

Can you imagine 8 million 'refugees' arriving in the US from Europe within 30 years? Certainly Europe can cope with the few millions which come now to Europe ... #wkendtravelinspiration

Anonymous said...

Pat,

The Koenig gives me chills, as well, to look upon such a monument to such a day. All that metal twice-risen from the earth---wounded and still proud---what a lasting tribute and memorial. My heart cannot hold all the thoughts of that great work of art, the secret crevices and folds reposing dust and ashes---keeping safe, holding fast for remembrance.

rachel

Rajesh said...

Great shots of the interesting place. Beautiful sculptures.

Margaret Birding For Pleasure said...

Love all the sculptures but I would really love to be ding in that tent - al fresco

Tamar SB said...

Such a fun part of the city!

Sylvia said...

Pat, I loved your photos of New York. The sculpture rescued from 911 is sad and hopeful. The globes are wonderful. Isn't it great to have friends to share a meal. Sylvia D.

NCSue said...

Great photos!
I hope you'll come share your pix at this week's photo linky party at image-in-ing:
http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2016/08/a-little-dab-of-color.html

Alexa T said...

Such beautiful collection of pictures and art exhibit! Lovely shots!

Anonymous said...

That eagle stature is huge! The twelve gloves are an interesting feature, but somehow it looks a little messy to my taste. Like to find out (and will read) why the female Irish immigrants were taken advantage of. Thank you for sharing another intesting N.Y. place for SEASONS! Have a great week, and thank you for your kind comment, Pat!

Ann said...

YES, I really love the globes--I have several but not life size!!
Ann

Joyful said...

I enjoyed your photos a lot. Whenever I think of NYC I think of Manhattan. It is such an iconic city and we all feel we know it and love it based on so many movies and tv shows. I'm sure you had a wonderful visit there.

Sharon said...

Thank you for taking on us an awesome journey to NYC! I love those cool globes especially. And the sunset shots are lovely!

The Gathering Place said...

Pat, I see so many bits and pieces of New York when I watch movies and television, and it is nice to know more history and some of the names of those places. Thanks for your educational and enjoyable blog posts.

Lady Fi said...

What gorgeous shots!

Fun60 said...

I loved this post. I was able to relive every step with you as I was there in May. Your explanations of the area has added to my experience of being there.

genie said...

What a wonderful tour you gave us of NY. It was such a treat getting to walk through town with you and see all of the interesting sites. The carousel really stands outs. It is amazing. I am going to have to go to the site and read more about it. My son and his family just got back from a week up there. Clinton Castle was wonderful to see as was that dramatic sculpture. Every picture you posted helped to tell the story of your visit so beautifully. genie

Pamela Gordon said...

Beautiful photos and informative post, Pat. I enjoyed the tidbits of information and history with each photo.

Lorrie said...

You are a wonderful tour guide, Pat. Thank you for this insight into a city I've heard so much about, but have never visited. I like the juxtaposition of the old brick building and the sky scrapers, too - it means the city is alive and vibrant, changing with the times, but not neglecting the past.

Marleen said...

I´d love to see that Sea Glass Carousel in person!

Judith @ Lavender Cottage said...

All of the sculptures are awesome and I think I found 'The Immigrants' the most powerful.
The Sea Glass Carousel looks like a fun addition to the city.

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Looks like an awesome place to visit..... I love that carousel. WOW!!!!! AND--just sitting or walking in that area would be so much fun. You have given new meaning to NYC and area...So glad you enjoyed your visit 'home' ---and I know you enjoyed being with friends.

Hugs,
Betsy

Ciao Chow Linda said...

Pat - You did a fantastic job of covering all the sights to be found in and around the park - so much I didn't know about, including Gigino's. I was happy to see you mention Castle Clinton, since I'm reading Hamilton right now, and came across a reference to troops stationed there ahead of a battle. great post.

Jeanne said...

Hello dear Pat, This post is packed full of so many interesting things. Battery Park is a place I have heard of but never visited while we were in NY. 'The Sphere' from the tragic fall of the twin towers is a treasure to have been saved. The immigrant statue is very moving and I loved the Sea Glass Carousel.

Your move to Colorado was so the right thing to do but I totally understand how NYC will always have a place in your heart. I always enjoy 'the heart' you put into your NYC posts.

Thank you so much for your faithful comments and linking to my Blue Monday posts while I was on vacation. I arrived home today...tired but very happy to have been with so much family these past two weeks.

Have a wonderful week.
xo,
Jeanne

Susan Anderson said...

Thanks for sharing your wonderful photos. I have never been to New York, and I need to correct that before I get too old to enjoy it!

=)

Andrea said...

Thanks for the tour, as i might not be able to see that in this lifetime. I love most the sunsets with those buildings.

diane b said...

Thanks for taking me sight seeing around Battery Park. Your photos of the city and buildings are so good. It make me feel that I am there. The new World Trade Centre is magical sight. The old and the new buildings look fun together. The restaurant looks fab too. We have a Battery Point in Tasmania, named for the same reason.

Mary K. said...

I moved from NY 20 years ago and I remember right before we moved we went to the WTC and saw the sphere in its' natural location. As so it was very bittersweet for me to see it after so many years when I returned to the park, albeit a bit worn out after the horrors. Thanks for sharing your lovely photos.

Sara - Villa Emilia said...

This very special town looks fabulous in the daylight, but your evening photos leave me speechless. Incredibly beautiful.
Must remember Gigino at Wagner Park! :)

Lauren on Location said...

I love Battery Park! I haven't been there in sooooo long, but this post really brought me back. I recognize a lot of the places you went, but I don't remember the Sea Carousel. Not sure how I missed that but it looks so cool! That restaurant looks absolutely lovely as well! Thanks for sharing and linking up for #wanderfulwednesday! :D

Su-sieee! Mac said...

Thanks for the tour! It has me wanting to visit New York now.

Anne's Attic - Design said...

Thank you for sharing at SYC! :) Jo

DrillerAA said...

Thank you for the tour that most of us will never have the opportunity to take and see what most tourists will never see. Have a blessed week-end.

Joanne said...

That carousel looks so neat! I also love those globes. What wonderful pictures.

Ericka @ A Quiet Girl's Musings... said...

It's been 6 years since I was in NYC. I would love to get back to see all the changes to the Battery Park area and to see the completed tower. I enjoyed reading your post.

Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson said...

Pat, what a fun life you lead! You travel so much and see so many amazing things! Love what you share with SYC.
hugs,
Jann

Anonymous said...

I seriously feel as though I have visited NYC with your posts. It is always fun to come here.

The globes are fun. I'd take one home if I could.

Lisa @ LTTL

Curtains in My Tree said...

Reading you post on New York City makes me home sick for the city. My friend has taken me to every place you mentioned, in last couple years.I am going back next May for 2 weeks. Now I didn't see the world globes however.

New York City has so much history to it and all the wonderful museums to visit, just love it. St Patrick Cathedral is breath taking on 5th street
Thanks for sharing, I'm going back and read it again just in case I missed something.
Janice

Gemma Wiseman said...

Intriguing variety of photos. Adore the peace sphere sculpture.