Imagine suburban tranquility nestled right here in Brooklyn. That’s Ditmas Park Historic District. It’s a captivating blend of history and architectural beauty.
Ditmas Park got its start in 1902. Real estate broker Lewis H Pounds purchased a large plot of land. This land was once the eastern part of a farm owned by the Van Ditmarsen family. Pounds divided the area into building lots. He and his partner Delbert Decker built houses. They also sold lots to independent builders.
The development followed strict rules. These rules ensured quality construction. The rules also created a distinctly suburban feel. All buildings had to be single-family homes. They also had to maintain a certain character. Pounds and Decker even set standards for landscaping.
This eight-block national historic district boasts 2000 to 2500 buildings. These were built between 1902 and 1914. Many are large, free-standing, single-family homes. They feature gables and inviting front porches.
Most architects were local to Flatbush or Brooklyn. They specialized in suburban designs. Architectural styles include Colonial Revival and Bungalow/Craftsman. You will also find Queen Anne and Tudor styles. Greek Revival and even Japanese Cottage styles add to the mix. These diverse styles are uncommon in Brooklyn. Brownstones and rowhouses are more typical here.
The Ditmas Park Historic District also includes apartment buildings. A commercial district thrives along Cortelyou Road. The brick Neo-Georgian Flatbush-Tompkins Congregational Church stands proudly since 1910.
The community flourished. Newkirk Avenue, Coney Island Avenue and Cortelyou Road are commercial strips. North-south streets are lined with historic Victorian homes.
The Ditmas Park Association was founded in 1908. It hosts social events and publishes a newsletter. It also works on civic issues with neighboring communities.
In 1983, the Ditmas Park Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Wealthy families bought large Victorian homes throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. More recently the neighborhood has experienced gentrification. Young people and artists are drawn to the large spaces and relatively cheap rents.
Cortelyou Road is a prime example of this. This commercial street has delis, bars and coffee shops. You can also find upscale restaurants.
Time Out New York named Ditmas Park one of the best neighborhoods in New York City for food in 2009.
Its Victorian houses give off a suburban vibe. This makes the area a popular spot for movie and TV filming.
Take a stroll through Ditmas Park. Admire the architecture. Experience the blend of history and modern life. You’ll understand why it’s a cherished corner of Brooklyn.