It was Munsee Indians who kept Dutch immigrants from settling much farther than a small stretch of land spreading to the north when Europeans first tried to inhabit Manhattan Island in the 1650’s. However progress continued and by the early 18th century, the area known as Bloemendale began to spread. Mansions, country estates and proud farmland all become contributors to the beautiful buildings that are now the Luxury Apartments Upper West Side home owners enjoy.
Broadway
The main street at the time that provided passage to the tobacco industry was once known as Bloomingdale Road which grew to a Boulevard and what is now famous Broadway. It stretched from 23rd Street to 114th and provided connection for the isolated areas of Bloomingdale’s country estates and farmland.
19th Century Mansions
As the 19th century emerged country estates gave way to an increasing number of less countrified homes and mansions began sprouting up. Elegant, regal homes of the time were almost misplaced against the rugged landscape of the island’s natural rock formations. In fact, the ruggedness of the land posed many issues for land developers who almost gave up on the challenges of nature’s obstructions and it wasn’t until the end of the 19th century that Manhattan began to see its full potential.
Central Park
In 1853 land in the centre of the city was dedicated to Central Park. This forced a change to the “class” of people in the area, many who were squatters living on the lush and rugged parkland area. As squatters were forced out so that the upper classes could take advantage of the lovely parkland, the economics of the West end were changed. By the end of the Civil War the area of Bloemendal or Blooomingdale was completely assimilated with the city of New York.
Industrial Expansion
A more industrious city rose in the west side with the introduction of sewers as well as an elevated railroad that ran along 9th Avenue. By the end of the 19th century the addition of high rises and apartments in the area included well known landmarks such as the Dakota and San Remo which were huge real estate investments at the time. It was also during this time that the various distinct business sections of Manhattan began to grow. As original homeowners were pushed out to make room for more apartments the homes that form the luxury apartments Upper West Side residents enjoy today became the norm.
