Brooklyn’s History Becomes More Accessible

City Councilman David Yassky and a group of fifth grade students held a workshop on Brooklyn’s history at the New York Historical Society (N-YHS) on Thursday.
Brooklyn’s History Becomes More Accessible
3/5/2009
Updated:
3/5/2009

NEW YORK—City Councilman David Yassky and a group of fifth grade students held a workshop on Brooklyn’s history at the New York Historical Society (N-YHS) on Thursday. The event coincided with the launch of Brooklyn Revealed, a new website that offers detailed history of Brooklyn complete with historical photographs.

Many New York students might not know how the city they reside in came to be what it is today. Brooklyn Revealed allows users to learn about Brooklyn’s colorful history going all the way back to the 1600’s.

“Brooklyn Revealed will bring the rich history of Brooklyn directly into the homes of all New Yorkers in a truly innovative way,” said Council Member David Yassky. “This interactive website will provide a venue through which we can engage our children in how Brooklyn has evolved, and allow for the dynamic exchange of knowledge and ideas that helps define our great borough.”

By scrolling over individual photographs, visitors can find out how the streets pictured in the photographs got their names. The site features a list of 100 streets and their origins. It also encourages guests to submit any information and photos that are not already present.

Yassky came up with the idea to create the website and provided support and funding for the project. The site was created by N-YHS research librarians Joseph Ditta and Susan Kriete, and web designer Ryan McCarthy. “The New-York Historical Society is grateful for generous funding provided by Councilman David Yassky,” said Louise Mirrer, president and CEO of N-YHS. “We laud his leadership, enthusiasm and ongoing support in bringing Brooklyn Revealed to fruition.”