Portal Down to Old New York

Read more than a few of my reviews and you will realize how often I'm disappointed by how little of our history we have preserved from the wrecking ball here in NYC. Now, some have noted how difficult it can be to see down through the glass at this site, that of the Old Cistern and the foundation and wall remains of Lovelace Tavern but these are nonetheless IMPRESSIVE. They date back to 1979-1980 and a groundbreaking---both figuratively and literally---archaeological examination of this area prior to building the new Goldman Sachs HQ. Perhaps, at some point, the city or some other entity will invest a little to update the glass and lighting but we should all be thankful that what little remains of these very old structures (by NYC standards) has been preserved. The photo of a mural from a govt building shows the original City Hall, or Stadt Huys, in Dutch, from the late 1600s, part of the foundations and walls below.

The condition of this site is very bad. I am sorry to say it is a great idea but so poorly executed it was not a good use of my time. Even as a side trip. You cannot see into over half the spaces. The area does not have enough light (Wall Street is just this way), glass/window coverings are “foggy”, shattered or broken, so dirty, condensation is so bad you cannot see, faded signs/markers, no lighting. I love architecture and this was disappointing.

Only a few views into old parts, but it is really neat to see along with some old buildings around the area.

Don't miss these remnants of colonial-era New York, discovered in an archaeological dig undertaken in New York, hidden in plain sight. Aside from these historic building fragments, the dig also yielded old Dutch tobacco pipes, more than 11,000 pieces of glass, and 23,000 fragments of pottery. Check out the venerable Fraunces Tavern for a pint before you go.

As cool as a portal sounds, it's just a couple of sculptures with glass floors looking down at foundations. Glass is dirty so it's hard to see and hard to read. It was a cool idea, but no need to go out of your way for it.

18th century historic downtown place New York City.
*****

Couldn't see clearly. Not sure if because its night time. might get a better view during the day

This cistern (well) was part of an excavation and gives us a glimpse into life in the early days of the colony that later became the United States. This early 18th century well was uncovered and is said to have resided on land belonging to longtime residents, the Philipse family of Philipse Manor. The well extended down to the waterline, YES, the East River’s waterfront once ran along what is now Pearl Street!

The cistern provided water to the entire block, and when the waterline was pushed out, it was no longer used. It then became a trash receptacle and was filled with everyday items.

There are several other "portals" located in this place giving a glimpse into early New York City. Very cool to see so much history mingled with the modern era financial district.