On Wednesday, October 15th, Greater Astoria Historical Society‘s 40th Anniversary was celebrated. While western Queens is the primary focus of its activities, GAHS has a hand (and a foot) in every neighborhood in NYC since 2011, as Forgotten New York tours have been held under its auspices. The tours themselves began in June 1999 as we marched along Broadway in Brooklyn from the waterfront to Flushing Avenue, then took a J train to take a look at the East New York subway yards, seeing ancient painted ads and architecture that have since disappeared. That’s what FNY tours did on all 154 entries since then.
After something of a lull in the early 2010s, FNY Tours again began to attract 30-50 participants in the latter part of the decade, thanks to greater promotion on facebook, twitter (X) and mailings and promotions from GAHS. No corner of NYC has been left untouched from City Island (three tours) to Tottenville. I first used a bullhorn, then an amplifier, and after the complaints of Greenwich Village residents, my own voice accompanied by plenty of water. In 2020, Covid interfered, and when that threat had eased, I was hit by a hernia (since repaired) then sciatica and back issues. I have been giving zoom presentations (the next will be promoted here as soon as I decide the theme) and I have been making personal appearances, giving powerpoint presentations in honor of FNY’s own 25th anniversary. I am 68 now, so I hope to get to the 30th or even 40th anniversary. I won’t quit despite the present server issues I am having. By now, FNY tours have attracted hundreds of people and earned thousands of dollars, a good percentage for the GAHS coffers.
Above is a team photo from a 2018 tour in the Gowanus Canal area. We were accompanied by renowned photographer Nathan Kensinger (seen on the far right).
Check out the ForgottenBook, take a look at the gift shop. As always, “comment…as you see fit.” I earn a small payment when you click on any ad on the site.
10/16/25
4 comments
Terrific presentation last night, Kev. It certainly has been a fun run of attending FNY tours – both in person & virtual – through the years. Lucky GAHS to have you on the Board.
You are a treasure! NYC is damn lucky to have you to tell her story.
I had the pleasure of participating in several walking tours. They will always be great memories. Thank you for hosting them.
Agree with everyone above. Great books, talks, tours and website. Website is a daily read. Don’t forget to check out Wildflower natural area at 19th ave and 36th street