Westchester–A Pictorial History
The New Year traditionally brings with it anticipation and excitement for the future. We’re all wondering, as you no doubt are, what’s in store for 2010. But this time of year also makes us reflect on our past, so we thought it would be appropriate to take a few moments (er, pages) to look back. Whether you’re a third-generation Westchesterite or a recent transplant, knowing Westchester’s history can help place what’s to come in proper context—plus, it’s fun.
Published December 21, 2009 at 03:55 PM
(page 6 of 9)
 | According to nycroads.com, the Bronx River Parkway, completed in 1925, was North America’s first modern, multi-lane (but sans dividers) limited-access parkway. One assumes that, shortly thereafter, it was also the site or North America’s first traffic jam. |
| This is what Pleasantville’s train station looked like in 1936. |  |
| The Westchester County Center, completed and open for business in the 1930s. |  |
 | In 1930, Ardsley residents used to be able to go ice-skating at Woodlands Park. Today, they have to go to Murray’s with everyone else. |
| Before Playland was built in 1927, residents complained that the area attracted rowdy, bawdy crowds. By 1930, when this photo was snapped, the amusement park and adjacent Rye Beach was safe for families. |  |
_1930.jpg) | Hachaliah Bailey, of Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus, built the Elephant Hotel as a pit stop for other traveling performers. Not pictured: Old Bet, Bailey’s Asian Elephant that he paraded up and down the East Coast. Today, you can visit the third floor of the building to see The Somers Historical Society and the Museum of the Early American Circus. |
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Love the pictures of Westchester history. I can remember quite a few from the 60's and later.
Although the Pleasantville train station may have looked like your 1936 picture I am sure there were no 1950 era automobiles as depicted in the picture.
Thanks for the memories.
George Baker
Fascinating pictures. It beckons the question; Are we better off today?
Thank you to all the contributors and the research
Peter Wattenberg
Does anyone know if I can purchase any of these pictures. They come out pretty bad to just copy and paste.
I wish you posted them in their full resolution. I'm sure your copies were not small 300 x 200 pixel pictures. it would be nice to really look at these and see all the detail