STAPLETON SIGHTS

IT’S a good problem to have. I have hundreds…if not thousands…of usable photos that haven’t found their way into Forgotten New York yet, because give me the opportunity and I’m stalking around with a camera, snapping anything that looks vaguely interesting with a Panasonic Lumix. It wasn’t always that way because in the early days, 1998-2004, I’d leave the house with a film camera and rolls of 24 or 36 image film. If the sun was in a bad spot, or there were shadows, too bad. In July 2024 I set out in Stapleton, Staten Island on a day much like this one, hot, humid, 90s. But the sun is in the best spot it’s going to be this time of year, and shadows aren’t a factor, so it’s the best time of year to shoot. The image you see above, the Bechtel Mansion, the largest and most ornate dwelling on tSt. Paul’s Avenue, was gotten that day when it was under renovation. In July 2014, a Forgotten NY tour was welcomed into the house by Mirjana Luczun, chairman of the local Mud Lane Society (“Mud Lane” was a colloquialism for St. Paul’s Avenue before it was paved). I have lost track of Mirjana since then, and am hoping she and the society are doing well.

Harrison Street, often referred to as “The Nook,” was developed roughly between 1840 and 1900. It was named for Dr. John Talbot Harrison, one-term State Assemblyman and Chief Health Officer of the Quarantine Station in the nearby neighborhood of Tompkinsville, which was developed by Daniel D. Tompkins, the United States Vice President under James Monroe. Despite local support it hasn’t become a NYC Landmarked district.

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. 

6/11/26