by Debra Rothar (High School East)
Last Spring, members of the HHHTA embarked on a tour through the historic grounds of Seneca Village, guided by the Central Park Conservancy. The tour provided a powerful opportunity for our members to delve into the rich yet often overlooked history of the predominantly African American community that once thrived in what is now Central Park.
Seneca Village, established in 1825, was home to a vibrant community of African Americans, Irish, and German immigrants. However, by 1857, the entire village was erased when the city used eminent domain to clear the land for the creation of Central Park.
Led by a knowledgeable Central Park Conservancy guide, the group explored key locations where Seneca Village once stood. With the help of historical maps, primary documents, and archaeological findings, attendees were able to visualize the homes, churches, and schools that made up this once-thriving community.
Throughout the tour, the guide provided vivid descriptions of daily life in Seneca Village. We learned about notable residents like Albro and Mary Lyons, educators and abolitionists who ran a boarding house for Black sailors escaping slavery. We also discovered how land ownership in Seneca Village gave Black residents the right to vote, a powerful reminder of the significance of the community within New York’s history.
For many of our members, the tour was both educational and deeply moving. Learning about Seneca Village’s displacement resonated with broader discussions on gentrification, land ownership, and historical erasure. The experience reinforced the importance of remembering and honoring the contributions of African Americans in shaping New York City.
By the end of the tour, attendees left with a profound appreciation for the resilience of Seneca Village’s residents and a renewed commitment to ensuring their stories are not forgotten. Thanks to the efforts of the Central Park Conservancy, this lost chapter of history continues to be uncovered, shared, and honored for future generations.
