Did you know Frank Principe Park wasn’t always called Frank Principe Park? This vibrant green space in Maspeth Queens has a rich history. It started life in 1940 as Maurice Park named after a local congressman James Maurice. But its true story is interwoven with the life of Frank Principe a man known as Mr Maspeth.
Frank Principe born in 1909 was a civil engineer. He graduated from Cornell University in 1931. He moved to Maspeth and saw the need for a park in his growing neighborhood. He envisioned transforming an old water pumping station into a community haven. This wasn’t an easy task. He had to lobby the Board of Estimate and the Borough President. He even gained the support of the powerful Robert Moses the city’s parks commissioner.
Principe’s persistence paid off. On June 1 1940 Maurice Park opened its gates. But Principe’s work wasn’t done. He dedicated his life to the park’s well-being. He fought to protect it from neglect and even organized community efforts to keep it clean and safe. His wife Virginia was also a strong advocate for the park. The playground inside Frank Principe Park is named in her honor.
Beyond his work for the park Principe was a remarkable figure. He founded the Principe-Danna concrete company. His company provided concrete for iconic New York City structures including the World Trade Center and John F Kennedy Airport. He even helped defeat a plan to build sludge processing plants across the city including one in Maspeth. Principe’s influence extended far beyond his business. He served as chairman of Community Board 5 for many years advocating for his community.
His dedication to Maspeth earned him the title Mr Maspeth. After his death in 2004 the community requested that Maurice Park be renamed in his honor. In 2005 the park was officially renamed Frank Principe Park a fitting tribute to a man who tirelessly fought for its creation and preservation. So next time you’re in Maspeth take a moment to appreciate Frank Principe Park. Remember the man who gave this park its heart and soul. His legacy lives on in the green spaces and in the community he loved.