“People of hilly land.” That’s what the Matinecock Indians called themselves long ago. Their story echoes through Bay Terrace. This area in Queens, now a tranquil residential neighborhood, has a history stretching back millennia. Archaeological studies suggest human habitation here for over 9,100 years.
Bay Terrace’s journey from ancient settlements to a modern community is fascinating. In 1639, Dutch Governor Willem Kieft purchased Queens County from the Matinecock. English and Dutch settlers then began arriving in the 1640s. They bartered for land, but tensions rose. By 1732, the Matinecock villages vanished from the area.
Fast forward to the mid-1800s and Bayside including Bay Terrace transformed into a summer resort. Wealthy families built mansions along Little Neck Bay. They sought refuge from Manhattan’s sweltering summers. Later, from the 1890s to the 1940s, the area became a movie colony. Famous stars like W.C. Fields and Gloria Swanson owned homes here. Films were even shot in Bayside.
Bay Terrace as we know it today began to take shape in the 1950s. Cord and Charles Meyer sold their 225-acre farm for development. This led to the construction of cooperative apartment buildings and garden apartments. The Bay Terrace Shopping Center also emerged giving the area its distinct identity.
Today, Bay Terrace offers a suburban oasis within New York City. Its location overlooks the East River. The views extend to the Throgs Neck Bridge. Residents enjoy waterfront parks like Little Bay Park and Joe Michael’s Mile. These spaces offer recreational opportunities and scenic beauty.
Bay Terrace is also known for its strong community. The neighborhood has highly-ranked public schools. These include P.S. 169, I.S. 25, and Bayside High School. The Queens Public Library’s Bay Terrace Branch serves the community’s needs.
Transportation is readily available. Several bus lines connect Bay Terrace to other parts of Queens. The nearby Bayside station provides access to the Long Island Rail Road. This makes commuting to Manhattan convenient.
As you explore Bay Terrace, remember its layers of history. From the Matinecock Indians to the movie stars, the neighborhood has witnessed many changes. Today, it stands as a testament to suburban tranquility within the dynamic landscape of New York City. Its stunning views and community spirit make it a special place to call home.