Neighborhood History
Indigenous Beginnings
Coney Island's narrative begins with the Indigenous Lenape tribe, who inhabited the area before European colonization. The Lenape thrived along the coast, relying heavily on the island's abundant natural resources and engaging in fishing, shellfishing, and hunting. The name "Coney Island" is believed to have stemmed from early European interpretations of the Dutch word "Konijn," meaning rabbit, which reflects the once plentiful rabbit population in the region. Marshes, dunes, and a rich coastal ecosystem characterized the island in its natural state.
Center for Brooklyn History
Rise of Resorts and Early Amusements
Strobridge & Co. Lith. (ca. 1898) Coney Island beach and boardwalk scenes. New York Coney Island, ca. 1898. Cin'ti ; New York: Strobridge Lith. Co. [Photograph] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/2014637184/.
The arrival of railways in the mid-1800s significantly improved access for the burgeoning middle class. The 1880s heralded the emergence of luxury hotels and early amusement attractions, including the Switchback Railway, one of the first roller coasters, alongside the renowned Elephant Hotel. This period marked Coney Island as a destination for visitors seeking leisure and novelty. In the 1890s, entrepreneur George C. Tilyou further solidified Coney Island's status as an amusement hub by introducing a Ferris wheel. By the late 19th century, the rise of amusement parks firmly established Coney Island as a quintessential entertainment locale.
Bain News Service, P. Crowds at Coney Island. , . July 5. [Photograph] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/2014688307/.
The Golden Age of Amusement Parks
The early 1900s saw the closing of Sea Lion Park, the first enclosed amusement park, paving the way for grander attractions such as Luna Park and Dreamland. However, significant setbacks occurred in the 1910s, including the devastating fire that consumed Dreamland and creditors' subsequent takeover of Luna Park. Despite these challenges, Coney Island continued to thrive as a beloved destination. The 1920s witnessed a transformative development with the construction of the Subway Nickel Empire, greatly enhancing accessibility and enabling millions of New Yorkers to journey to Coney Island for just a nickel.
1960s Redevelopment Plan
The 1960s redevelopment plan aimed to transform Coney Island into a family-friendly urban destination. This ambitious initiative proposed demolishing older amusement structures to pave the way for high-rise apartment buildings, shopping centers, and parking facilities. However, the plan encountered significant opposition from preservationists dedicated to safeguarding the island's historic amusement parks. Ultimately, while some alterations were made, the plan was scaled back, preserving iconic attractions such as the Wonder Wheel and the Cyclone roller coaster. Nevertheless, the mid-20th century marked a notable shift in Coney Island's cultural and architectural landscape, with the development of modernist housing. Significant public housing projects, including the Trump Village Towers, emerged during this period. These high-rise buildings provided essential urban housing and reflected changing societal expectations and living standards.
2009 Rezoning: Renewal and Future Growth
The 2009 rezoning initiative aimed to revitalize Coney Island's economy and enhance its appeal as a tourist destination. This plan introduced updated zoning regulations to facilitate mixed-use developments and higher-density housing. It emphasized infrastructure improvements and sustainable practices, ensuring that Coney Island is well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. The initial phases of development included a blend of residential, commercial, and entertainment projects, some of which balanced modern requirements with the preservation of the area's historic character.
Bain News Service, P. "Razzle Dazzle" ride at Coney Island N.Y. , . [No Date Recorded on Caption Card] [Photograph] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/2014683954/.