Until the 1890s, the western portion of this neighborhood was known as Fulton Landing. Then, it was primarily a manufacturing district, housing warehouses and factories that made machinery, paper boxes and Brillo soap pads. With deindustrialization, DUMBO became primarily residential, when artists and other young homesteaders seeking relatively large and inexpensive spaces moved in the 1970s. The area Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass has emerged as one of New York City’s premier arts districts, with a cluster of for-profit galleries and not-for-profit institutions. Join Savona Bailey-McClain, curator and arts producer. See how this neighborhood has transformed itself into a fascinating community with great river views, galleries and funky retail shops.  

Time: 12:00pm-2:00pm

Date: Saturday May 5, 2012

Event Route:  Start at Galapagos Art Space, 16 Main Street (near Water Street) IND ”A” train to High Street and walk down to Washington Street towards Front Street or take the “F” train to York Avenue and walk across under the bridge to Main Street. End back at Galapagos Art Space, 16 Main Street.

Host Organization:   Savona Bailey-McClain, Executive Director of the West Harlem Art Fund, Inc. and NYC Arts! (Walking tour initiative of the West Harlem Art Fund)

Registration: No need to sign up, just show up at the posted meeting location.

Accessibility: Not Accessible – stairs, obstacles, uneven terrain, steep paths