Charlton Plaza

Gazing at this unassuming triangle of green, it’s hard to believe Charlton Plaza holds a unique piece of New York City history. Charlton Plaza, nestled between Charlton and King Streets on the west side of 6th Avenue, isn’t your typical grand park. It’s a tiny, almost hidden gem, a mere 0.04 acres. But its size belies its fascinating story. Charlton Plaza owes its existence to the roaring twenties and the construction of the IND subway line. When 6th Avenue was extended south from Carmine Street to Church Street in 1928, several smaller streets were swallowed up. From this urban redesign emerged small public plazas, and Charlton Plaza is one of them. This little green oasis arose from the dust and disruption of progress. The city officially acquired this wedge-shaped plot in 1959. It wasn’t until 1965 that it was transferred to the Parks Department, finally gaining its official name, Charlton Plaza, in 1996. The plaza is named for Dr. John Charlton, a British physician who arrived in 1762 with the British army. Interestingly, he later switched sides, supporting the American patriots and even treating Chief Justice John Jay. So, as you stand here in Charlton Plaza, remember, you are standing on a small patch of land with a big story. A story of urban development, a testament to a forgotten physician, and a quiet reminder of the ever-changing landscape of New York City.