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Bronx County in New York is well-known for its beautiful parks, botanical gardens, and world-class cultural institutions. However, it has a rich history that is often overlooked. Here are seven interesting facts about Bronx County in New York history.
1. Birthplace of Hip Hop
The Bronx is widely regarded as the birthplace of Hip Hop. The genre originated in the South Bronx in the 1970s, where block parties mixed with DJ spinning performances. Local Bronx DJs like Kool Herc and Afrika Bambaataa were among the pioneers of the genre.
2. The Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in the United States and one of the largest in the world. It was opened in 1899 and covers over 265 acres. The zoo attracts more than two million visitors annually and is home to over 6,000 animals.
3. The birthplace of the sandwich
The sandwich is a popular food item that originated in the Bronx. In the early 1900s, a German immigrant named Alfred Feuchs opened the first sandwich shop in the Bronx. He used two slices of bread to hold meat and other ingredients, and the sandwich soon became an instant hit.
4. The Bronx River was once a dumping ground
For many years, the Bronx River was used as a dumping ground for industrial waste. However, in the mid-20th century, community leaders began fighting to clean it up. Today the river is a vital part of the Bronx ecosystem, and there are many opportunities for recreational activities like kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
5. The Grand Concourse
The Grand Concourse is a major thoroughfare in the Bronx that was completed in 1909. It was modeled after the Champs-Élysées in Paris and was once regarded as one of the city's most prestigious addresses. The Grand Concourse is home to many Art Deco buildings and landmarks, including the famous Yankee Stadium.
6. The Bronx was once the home of Edgar Allan Poe
Edgar Allan Poe, the famous poet, and writer, lived in the Bronx for a time. Poe moved to the Bronx in 1846, where he wrote some of his most famous works, including "The Cask of Amontillado" and "Annabel Lee." Today, his former home is a museum and a National Historic Landmark.
7. The birthplace of the film industry
The film industry was born in the Bronx in 1915 when a company called the Independent Moving Pictures Company (IMP) opened a studio on 210th Street. IMP made more than 1,000 silent films at the studio before it closed in 1918. Today, the soundstage is home to the Bronx Opera, and it earns its place as the birthplace of the film industry.
In conclusion, Bronx county has a rich history steeped in cultural, ecological, and industrial innovation. Its people have given us the legacy of Hip-Hop and sandwiches, and its breathtaking landscapes have also helped to renew the urban environment. These seven facts are just a taste of the treasures in this borough, and another good reason to visit and discover its secrets.
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