

The Bowery Boys: New York City History
Tom Meyers, Greg Young
The tides of American history lead through the streets of New York City — from the huddled masses on Ellis Island to the sleazy theaters of 1970s Times Square. The elevated railroad to the Underground Railroad. Hamilton to Hammerstein! Greg and Tom explore more than 400 years of action-packed stories, featuring both classic and forgotten figures who have shaped the world.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 19, 2008 • 32min
#59 Five Points: Wicked Slum
You've heard the legend of New York's most notorious neighborhood. Now come with us as we hit the streets of Five Points and dig up some of the nitty, gritty details of its birth, its first residents and its most scandalous pastimes.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/boweryboys Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 19, 2008 • 31min
#57 Carnegie Hall
How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Well, we can at least show you the way through its tumultuous history, from a fortunate meeting on a Norwegian cruise ship, past a symphonic rivalry, and into the 20th Century with some of the biggest names in classical and popular music. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/boweryboys Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 19, 2008 • 18min
#56 Randall's Island and the 1936 Olympic Trials
Explore the fascinating secrets of Randall's and Ward's Islands in New York City's past. Learn about the connection between these islands and the 1936 Olympic Trials, featuring guests like Jesse Owens, Tony Bennett, FDR, Othmar Ammann, Robert Moses, and Pearl Jam. Discover the unique purposes these islands have served, from burning garbage to quarantine hospitals. Dive into the exhumation process and the transformation of these islands from British strongholds to recreational parks. Finally, delve into the history of the 1936 Olympic Trials and Jesse Owens' historic success.

Sep 19, 2008 • 34min
#55 The Evolution of Central Park
Explore the transformation of Central Park, including the decrease in funding, changing population, and transportation. Learn about the original design of the park and its purpose as an escapist oasis or a blend of nature and city life. Discover the diverse range of activities and amenities that have shaped Central Park, including bird watching and the controversial addition of the first playground. Delve into the restoration of Central Park in the 1980s and the efforts of individuals and private citizens in fundraising. Learn about how Central Park raises money and the unique experience of being in the park while still in the city.

Sep 19, 2008 • 30min
#54 The Creation of Central Park
Discover the creation and construction of Central Park in New York City, its purpose, features, and attractions. Uncover the complications of land ownership, design process challenges, and drainage difficulties. Explore the rock sculpting and development of the park, including conflicts and unfinished elements.

Sep 19, 2008 • 15min
#53 The Meatpacking District: Glamour and Gore
Explore the history and transformation of New York City's Meatpacking District, from its origins as a bustling produce and meat distributor to its current state as a trendy high-end neighborhood. Learn about the development of the Ganzivort Market, the modification of row houses into warehouses, and the construction of the High Line. Discover the district's sleazy past, its repurposing of establishments, and ongoing changes. Conclude with the district's controversial history and designation as a landmark.

Sep 19, 2008 • 32min
#52 DeWitt Clinton and the Erie Canal
Former mayor, governor, senator and privileged son DeWitt Clinton discusses his role in the creation of the Erie Canal, his influential political career, and his impact on the growth of New York City. The podcast explores his early life, political aspirations, and the transformative impact of the Erie Canal on commerce and transportation.

Sep 19, 2008 • 14min
#51 McSorley's Old Ale House
Learn about the history of McSorley's Old Ale House, a popular New York City bar that has served famous patrons such as Abraham Lincoln and John Lennon. Explore the unique ambiance, women's exclusion, and fascinating legends surrounding the establishment.

Sep 19, 2008 • 27min
#50 Canal Street and Collect Pond
Discover the historical significance of Collect Pond and its transformation into Canal Street. Learn about the ecological diversity of Manhattan Island and the polluted state of the Collect Pond due to industrial waste dumping. Explore the poor water quality after the revolution and the emergence of bottled water. Uncover the conundrum surrounding Collect Pond and its transformation into the notorious slum of Five Points. Dive into the history and diverse shops of Canal Street and the Collect Pond neighborhood.