Photo Credit: Mitch Waxman

Set to the dramatic backdrop of the insalubrious valley of Newtown Creek, historian Mitch Waxman will be sharing fascinating tales of the early chemical industry, “Dead Animal and Night Soil Wharfs”, colonial era heretics, witches and the coming of the railroad.

We’ll be following the currently undefended border of Brooklyn and Queens as we make our way through the actual site of the Industrial Revolution, visiting two movable bridges, a forgotten tributary of the larger waterway and the still standing remains of an early 19th century highway along with a little known colonial pathway. Our grand tour will be ending at the famed Clinton Diner in Maspeth where scenes from Martin Scorcese’s “Goodfellas” were shot. Lunch at the former Clinton Diner, now called Goodfellas Diner, will be included in the tour.

DETAILS:

Meet up will be at the corner of Grand Street and Morgan Avenue in Brooklyn. The L train stops nearby at Bushwick Avenue and Grand Street; the Q54 and Q59 bus lines have nearby stopping points as well.
Be prepared for rough terrain and possible heavy truck traffic. Dress and pack appropriately for hiking and the weather. Closed-toe shoes are highly recommended. Bathroom opportunities will be found only at the beginning of the walk.
Ticket price includes lunch at the former Clinton Diner.
Questions? Contact megan@atlasobscura.com