Cool in Your Code

Forgotten NY

New York City is full of history, and, over the years, much of it has been covered up, torn down, or just ignored. Good thing Kevin Walsh is around to document every ancient street lamp, faded advertisement, and left over rail line he can find on his blog, Forgotten NY. The amateur historian researches, references and photographs all the hidden gems most of us miss everyday.

Since he’s looking a little more closely than the rest of us, we asked Kevin about some of his favorite NY finds.

What do you love about living in New York?

You don’t need a car, which is a big expense I don’t want or need.

What surprises you about New York or New Yorkers?

They are much more willing to assist and aid than is believed.

Tell us about your blog… what is the premise, what are your main coverage areas, how did you get started?

In 1998, I began to walk around town and take pictures of things on buildings and in streets that other people don’t notice or ignore, such as old ads on buildings, leftover lampposts, hidden alleyways, neighborhoods that the guidebooks don’t talk about, and areas that don’t look like they’re in NYC. I had noticed them for years, since I was a kid, but never thought to photograph them. I missed out on a lot of things, but since starting FNY I have captured a lot of things that aren’t there any more.

Best corny tourist attraction that you secretly love?

I like Shake Shack, but not secretly.

Best neighborhood bar?

Tied for the Old Town near Union Square and Millard Fillmore’s near Queens College.

Last cultural thing that you did:

I’m always in the Museum of the History of NY on 5th Avenue and the Urban Center, Madison and 50th.

Best place to meet members of the opposite sex:

I’ve met women through urban exploration as well as my own Forgotten Tours.

Best moviehouse:

I like the Film Forum.

www.forgotten-ny.com/

Filed under: around the blog, blog, boroughs, manhattan, new york history