ThoughtGallery.org > ‘Roosevelt Island: A History of Health, Science, and Scandal’ Webinar

‘Roosevelt Island: A History of Health, Science, and Scandal’ Webinar

You’ve probably seen the red tram shuttling back and forth to Roosevelt Island, but how much do you really know about this two-mile-long piece of land wedged between Manhattan and Queens? From global scientific breakthroughs to an exposé that sparked mental health reform in America, this is the story of one of New York’s most peculiar islands — one that continues to be written.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore Roosevelt Island, a narrow island between the New York City boroughs of Manhattan and Queens that has been home to everything including Dutch farms, rehabilitation institutions, asylums, hospitals, and scientific laboratories.

Led by New York City historian Kevin Draper, our virtual journey to Roosevelt Island will include:

  • A historical overview of Roosevelt Island and why it was once called Minnehanonck by the Native Americans, Hog Island by the Dutch, Blackwell Island by the English, and Welfare Island by the city
  • A look at its most historic sites including the Chapel of the Good Shepherd (1888) and the Blackwell House, a 1796 dutch farmhouse that is NYC’s 6th oldest landmark
  • Why Roosevelt Island — along with many other islands throughout New York — were used as sites for hospitals, wards, and asylums (and how some of those still-standing structures are being used for now)
  • A virtual trip to the south side of the island, which contains the FDR Four Freedoms Park, Smallpox Hospital (NYC’s only landmarked ruin), and abandoned Strecker Laboratory (the first institution in the nation for pathological and bacteriological research)
  • A discussion around the newly built Cornell University campus and future redevelopment plans for the island

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Kevin — any and all questions about Roosevelt Island are welcomed and encouraged!

Can’t make it live? Don’t worry, you’ll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

About Kevin

“I am a New York City Historian, experienced licensed guide, and co-founder and director of New York Historical Tours on a mission to provide exceptional and unforgettable experiences with the highest level of service. I will give you a front row seat and exciting insight into the city’s dynamic history, rich culture, diverse architecture, show you unique treasures and share the fascinating secrets hidden between the city streets.

Kevin has led historical talks and lectures for top universities and Fortune 500 companies and is a respected historical consultant for major media and publications including CBS, ABC, Bloomberg, The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal. Kevin Draper also provides inspiring presentations and does consulting on any subject as it relates to New York City History.

http://www.newyorkhistoricaltours.com











When: Tue., Feb. 16, 2021 at 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Where: No Location
Via livestream

Price: $10
Buy tickets/get more info now
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You’ve probably seen the red tram shuttling back and forth to Roosevelt Island, but how much do you really know about this two-mile-long piece of land wedged between Manhattan and Queens? From global scientific breakthroughs to an exposé that sparked mental health reform in America, this is the story of one of New York’s most peculiar islands — one that continues to be written.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore Roosevelt Island, a narrow island between the New York City boroughs of Manhattan and Queens that has been home to everything including Dutch farms, rehabilitation institutions, asylums, hospitals, and scientific laboratories.

Led by New York City historian Kevin Draper, our virtual journey to Roosevelt Island will include:

  • A historical overview of Roosevelt Island and why it was once called Minnehanonck by the Native Americans, Hog Island by the Dutch, Blackwell Island by the English, and Welfare Island by the city
  • A look at its most historic sites including the Chapel of the Good Shepherd (1888) and the Blackwell House, a 1796 dutch farmhouse that is NYC’s 6th oldest landmark
  • Why Roosevelt Island — along with many other islands throughout New York — were used as sites for hospitals, wards, and asylums (and how some of those still-standing structures are being used for now)
  • A virtual trip to the south side of the island, which contains the FDR Four Freedoms Park, Smallpox Hospital (NYC’s only landmarked ruin), and abandoned Strecker Laboratory (the first institution in the nation for pathological and bacteriological research)
  • A discussion around the newly built Cornell University campus and future redevelopment plans for the island

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Kevin — any and all questions about Roosevelt Island are welcomed and encouraged!

Can’t make it live? Don’t worry, you’ll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

About Kevin

“I am a New York City Historian, experienced licensed guide, and co-founder and director of New York Historical Tours on a mission to provide exceptional and unforgettable experiences with the highest level of service. I will give you a front row seat and exciting insight into the city’s dynamic history, rich culture, diverse architecture, show you unique treasures and share the fascinating secrets hidden between the city streets.

Kevin has led historical talks and lectures for top universities and Fortune 500 companies and is a respected historical consultant for major media and publications including CBS, ABC, Bloomberg, The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal. Kevin Draper also provides inspiring presentations and does consulting on any subject as it relates to New York City History.

http://www.newyorkhistoricaltours.com

Buy tickets/get more info now