Vesuvio Playground

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Deep in the heart of SoHo, Vesuvio Playground isn’t just a playground. It’s a testament to community, history, and the unexpected. Vesuvio Playground pulsates with the laughter of children. This seemingly ordinary urban oasis holds a fascinating story. Vesuvio Playground wasn’t always called Vesuvio. Its original name, Thompson Street Playground, honored Revolutionary War Brigadier General William Thompson. The playground’s current name has a unique origin. It honors the beloved Vesuvio Bakery on nearby Prince Street. The bakery, in turn, took its name from the infamous Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that buried Pompeii. The park couldn’t be named after the bakery’s owner, Anthony Dapolito, due to a Parks Department rule against naming parks after living individuals. So, Vesuvio Playground became a tribute to both the bakery and its owner’s contribution to the community. The land for Vesuvio Playground was acquired piecemeal by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation between 1929 and 1957. The playground we see today is the result of a $2.9 million renovation completed in 2007. It offers a variety of amenities. These include basketball courts, handball courts, and even bocce courts for a taste of Italian tradition. Children can splash in the mini-pool, dig in the sandboxes, and cool off in the spray showers. There are also public bathrooms for convenience. Vesuvio Playground embodies the spirit of SoHo. It blends history, community, and a touch of Italian flair.

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