Sunset Tour! The Gansevoort Market Historic District and the Far West Village

RSVP's open Wednesday, May 27th at 9:00pm. Space is set aside for new members, first and second timers who land on the waiting list providing there are still spots open. Email me at hankorenstein@gmail.com to request a spot once you are on the waiting list.

This tour is free with a welcome donation to your organizer/guide at the end via cash, venmo or zelle.

Description: The Gansevoort Market area, or Meatpacking District for a small area has quite a colorful history. A one time a Lenape Indian trading post on the Hudson Riverfront, the Americans built Fort Gansevoort in 1812 (demolished) to protect Manhattan from attack by the British. Later in the 19th century the area became a busy farmer's market (pictured) along with both heavy and light industry, slaughterhouses and of course meatpacking. In the 1970's it became a notorious nightclub district with prostitution.

In recent decades the district has been transformed with the opening of the High-Line and the Whitney Museum, restaurants, hotels and fashion designer stores and other upscale retail.

The adjacent far west village is filled with 19th century charm and we'll take in the history, architecture and current activity. Stops include America's largest artist colony (Westbeth), the last street in Manhattan to be mapped, a mysterious farmhouse, and the place of Alexander Hamilton's death at his friend's home after being mortally wounded at the dual across the river in New Jersey.

6:00pm: Meet outside the Little Island Park's southerly entrance (as opposed to the northernmost entrance) - Pier 54 near the old pier's metal arch. If you wish to visit the Little Island at least to use the restrooms be sure to come early! You will find directions on this website: https://littleisland.org/
There is a snack bar which serves mainly hot dogs and pretzels along with a variety of beverages. For more variety Chelsea Market has pizza by the slice at Filaga Pizzeria, among other food purveyors.
https://www.chelseamarket.com/directory-food-and-beverage

To Bring: Water to drink, snacks if you like.

Tour Ends, Near where we began at the Pier 57 rooftop park to to enjoy the sunset. Convenient to M14 crosstown buses, A,C,E subways, Chelsea Market.

Cheers!
Your organizer and guide,

Hank Orenstein
hankorenstein@gmail.com
646-596-3005