Central Park West Historic District in Manhattan in New York County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Discover Seneca Village
Between 1825 and 1857, before the city built Central Park, this area was the location of Seneca Village – a community composed predominantly of African Americans, many of whom owned property. This was the most densely settled section of the acreage slated for Central Park; by 1855 the community numbered approximately 225 and had 52 homes and three churches.
Explore the history, community and landscape of Seneca Village in a series of interpretative signs. Begin at the information kiosk, then visit the sixteen signs throughout the area, in the order suggested. Download or photograph a map of the signs here to pick up a brochure at one of our visitor centers.
Erected 2020 by Central Park Conservancy.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Parks & Recreational Areas • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical year for this entry is 1825.
Location. 40° 46.98′ N, 73° 58.057′ W. Marker is in Manhattan, New York, in New York County. It is in the Central Park West Historic District. Marker can be reached from West 84th Street east of Central Park West. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: Central Park, New York NY 10024, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Livelihoods (within shouting distance of this marker); Geology (within shouting distance of this marker); Reservoir Keepers (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); AME Zion Church (about 300 feet away); African Union Church (about 400 feet away); Gardens (about 400 feet away); Seneca Village (about 400 feet away); Seneca Village Community (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Manhattan.
More about this marker. An identical wayside can be found at the Central Park West and West 85th Street entrance to the park.
Also see . . .
1. Seneca Village. Wikipedia entry (Submitted on May 3, 2021, by Larry Gertner of New York, New York.)
2. Seneca Village Site. Central Park Conservancy entry: (Submitted on May 3, 2021, by Larry Gertner of New York, New York.)
3. Seneca Village, New York City. National Park Service entry (Submitted on May 3, 2021, by Larry Gertner of New York, New York.)
Credits. This page was last revised on January 31, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 3, 2021, by Larry Gertner of New York, New York. This page has been viewed 104 times since then and 19 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on May 3, 2021, by Larry Gertner of New York, New York.