Question: What makes Far Rockaway a neighborhood of New York City unlike any other? Its history is a tapestry woven with threads of Native American heritage. It also includes the glitz of a resort destination and the grit of a community tested by time and tide.
Far Rockaway is situated on the eastern edge of Queens. This location gives it a unique identity. Its name echoes its past. “Reckouacky” is the Algonquin word that morphed into Rockaway. The “Far” was added to distinguish it from Rockaway Beach.
Originally, the Lenape tribe inhabited this land. Later, Far Rockaway blossomed into a resort destination. Wealthy New Yorkers flocked here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They built summer homes and fancy hotels. The beautiful beaches and boardwalks were a huge draw.
The Marine Pavilion opened in 1833. It became a fashionable resort area. Famous guests included Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Washington Irving. The Vanderbilt family also visited. This hotel is credited with introducing beach bathing to New York. The South Side Railroad company brought train service to Far Rockaway in 1869. The New York, Woodhaven and Rockaway railroad built a line across Jamaica Bay in 1880. It promised “30 minutes to the surf”.
After World War II, Far Rockaway declined. Wealthy residents moved away. Hotels turned into public housing. However, Far Rockaway has rebounded in recent years. New businesses and restaurants have opened. The beaches and boardwalks have been revitalized.
Far Rockaway Beach is one of its most iconic features. The boardwalk stretches over two miles. People swim, sunbathe, and surf here during the summer. Bayswater Park offers stunning bay views. Boating and fishing are popular here.
Far Rockaway has been home to some notable people. Neil Simon is one. He is best known for “The Odd Couple” and “Barefoot in the Park”. Filmmaker Larry Cohen also hails from Far Rockaway. He directed “It’s Alive” and “Q: The Winged Serpent”. NBA player Kenny Anderson had a successful career in the 1990s and 2000s. He is another famous person from Far Rockaway. Bernie Madoff, the mastermind of a 50 billion dollar Ponzi scheme, graduated from Far Rockaway High School in 1956.
Far Rockaway’s story is one of constant change. It is a testament to the resilience and diversity of its people. The community continues to thrive. It embraces its history while looking forward to the future.