Slipping through time, imagine 1940. The city acquires land. This land would become John Allen Payne Playground. John Allen Payne Playground isn’t just swings and slides. It’s a piece of Sunset Park’s history. This park sits beneath the Gowanus Expressway. It’s one of many green spaces along this roadway. John Allen Payne Playground opened in 1941. It was a WPA project. The original playground featured many amenities. There was a sand pit, seesaws, and slides. There was also an exercise unit and shuffleboard courts. A brick comfort station provided restrooms. A concrete wading pool offered relief from the summer heat. Kids could play volleyball and basketball on a combination court. Paddle tennis courts and a roller skating area provided more recreation options. Six handball courts rounded out the offerings. John Allen Payne Playground underwent a $2.5 million renovation in 2018. New play structures, a water spray system, and accessible swings were added. The park saw some delays in its reopening. This frustrated local families eager to enjoy the new amenities. Councilmember Carlos Menchaca advocated for the community. He demanded answers from the Parks Department about the delays. John Allen Payne Playground continues to serve the community today. It’s a place for kids to play and families to connect. It is a testament to the legacy of the New Deal.
Gould Family Mausoleum
Ever heard of a “Robber Baron?” Here at Woodlawn Cemetery stands the Gould Family Mausoleum. It is a testament to