Since 1858 New York City’s Central Park has served as a peaceful oasis for New Yorkers and visitors from around the world to enjoy the park’s beautiful landscape, bridges, fountains, wildlife, sculptures and more. However, have you ever wondered who and what previously occupied the 843 acres that is now this beautiful park?

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Sara Cedar Miller, Historian Emerita of the Central Park Conservancy and author of the book, “Before Central Park”. Sara will take us back in history to tell us stories of the days prior to the formation of Central Park when the land was the site of farms, businesses, wars and a home to many different communities of people.

Sara will also give us insight into the wonderful work of the Central Park Conservancy. For over forty years, the Conservancy’s mission has been to preserve and celebrate Central Park as a sanctuary from the pace and pressures of city life and to enhance the enjoyment and well-being of all.

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Photo(s) and songs: Courtesy of YHYS and Sara Cedar Miller

Support Your History Your Story:

Please consider becoming a Patron or making a one time donation via PayPal. - THANK YOU!!!

YHYS Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠

YHYS PayPal: ⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠

YHYS: Social Links: ⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠

YHYS: Join our mailing list: ⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠

#yhys #yourhistoryyourstory #history #storytelling #podcast #njpodcast #youhaveastorytoo #jamesgardner

To learn more about this episode, check the links below:

Central Park Conservancy

Before Central Park

Book(s): Before Central Park and Seeing Central Park

Similar stories of interest:

S7 Ep05 Building the Brooklyn Bridge

S3 Ep02 Carrying the Torch of History