Tompkins Square Park sits in the middle of the East Village, a perfect centerpiece for an eclectic neighborhood, which houses artists, radicals, fashion lovers, and those who have lived in the neighborhood for decades and witnessed its many changes.
Along with its excellent people-watching, the park has two playgrounds, a handball court, chess tables, and a basketball court. Wildlife includes interesting bird watching, and the local black squirrels. The park contains a number of elm trees. One of these, known as the Hare Krishna Tree, for its association with the 1966 founding of the Krishna movement in the United States.
The East Village is rich in small neighborhood pocket parks and community gardens. Each is unique. A well known one is the 6BC Garden a block away, depending on conditions we may also opt to spend part of the afternoon portion of the day visiting this garden (TBD)
Fun Fact: The park opened in 1834 and is named for Daniel D. Tompkins, Vice President of the United States under President James Monroe and the Governor of New York from 1807 until 1817.. (Oh! ... that Tompkins!)
DETAILS
What: We’ll be sketching Tompkins Square Park
Where: Tompkins Square Park is bounded on the north by East 10th Street, on the east by Avenue B, on the south by East 7th Street, and on the west by Avenue A, is abutted by St. Marks Place to the west. We’ll meet in the center of the park
When: Start time - 10 AM. Running late? Come anyway - we'll be there.
How:
- By Subway:
1st Avenue - L train
8th Street - N, Q, R, and W trains
Astor Place - 6 train
2nd Avenue - F train
