Albert E Short Triangle

Hidden in the heart of Long Island City is Albert E Short Triangle. It’s a small park, a mere triangle of green. But don’t let its size fool you. This little patch of land holds a fascinating story. Albert E Short Triangle is named after a man dedicated to his community, Albert E. Short. He served as Queens Assistant District Attorney from 1938 to 1951. He earned a reputation for taking on bootleggers and extortionists. He was also deeply committed to helping young people, working to curb juvenile delinquency. Interestingly, before it bore Short’s name, this triangle went by a different title: Bowley Angle. It was named after Frederick Bowley, the first Borough President of Queens. Bowley had a colorful past, starting as a butcher and eventually rising through the political ranks. However, his career was marked by scandal, which eventually led to a year in Sing Sing prison. The triangle’s name was changed after Albert Short’s death in 1951. Local officials felt that Short’s dedication to youth deserved recognition. They renamed the park in his honor. Today, Albert E Short Triangle is a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city. A low iron fence surrounds the lush grass. A few benches offer a place to rest. A Norway maple and a weeping cherry tree grace the space, planted years apart. The trees stand as silent witnesses to the triangle’s evolving history. If you find yourself in Long Island City, take a moment to visit Albert E Short Triangle. It’s a reminder that even small spaces can hold significant stories.