Join the Salvation Army on Wednesday, October 30th for a Fall 2024 Harvest Festival.

Commissioners' North vs. Dutch North

You probably know that our Manhattan grid system is oriented to the island, and not to true north.  What you might not know, is that the original Dutch settlement of New Haarlem was based on the compass, with the two main roads (Church Lane and The Indian Trail) going East/West, and plots of land either branching off these roads in a North/South way, or following the roads in East/West orientation:

The map shown above has the old Dutch grid over top of the later grid system we know.

Keen readers may notice the cemetery at 126th Street and the river, a now non-existent 'Harlem Creek', and a few church sites.

The result of this grid over a grid is that East Harlem has a few property line anomalies that are not found anywhere else in Manhattan.  Angles oriented to true North/South or East/West, in this compact area of early Dutch settlement.  See http://www.oasisnyc.net/map.aspx and look at the area east of Marcus Garvey Park, and between 120 and 128th Streets.

Below are some screenshots where you can pick out the angled property lines that otherwise would make no sense in Manhattan.

Head on Over to Randall’s Island

Please join us on Saturday, October 19th from 1 – 2 PM for Waterfront Wellness, a FREE outdoor fitness class along our stunning waterfront! This all-ages, all-abilities class is led by Benswic trainers who will guide you through a fun and effective bodyweight workout. All you need is a water bottle and a smile – everyone is welcome. The class will take place at the East River Picnic Area on Randall’s Island. To register, please visit our Eventbrite here. Registration is encouraged, but not required.  

If driving, you can search "East River Picnic Area" on Google Maps to route there, or type in the address, 20 Randalls Island Park, New York, NY 10035. Parking is available nearby in Lot J. If taking public transit, take 4, 5, or 6 trains to 125th Street & Lexington. Take the M35 Bus from NW corner towards Randall’s Island and exit at the Hell Gate Circle/Opp Odyssey House stop. Continue Southwest along the Wards Meadow Loop towards Wards Meadow Fields. Once you reach the Waterfront Pedestrian Pathway turn left, across from the Orange Public Restrooms, and find us on the grass! If walking or biking, please see the attached map with appropriate routes.