Scorched Earth: Stories from North Brooklyn’s Hazardous Past

Janes Walk

Led By Alexa Rast

The Greenpoint and Williamsburg waterfronts may be undergoing a glamorous transformation, but their powerful industrial history still lingers just below the surface. On this tour we will visit sites and hear stories of extraordinary and explosive events from three different centuries of North Brooklyn history. We’ll discuss the infamous disasters that have shaped these neighborhoods and their residents for generations to come, and, on the way, we’ll safely encounter some lesser-known disasters that have continued into the present day. Comfortable shoes recommended.

Accessibility

The route distance is approximately 2.5 miles set on mostly level ground (two streets are on hills, but I can change the route to accommodate guests) All stops on the tour can be accessed by wheelchair. The tour begins close to the G Train, a CitiBike station, and the B43, B24, B62, and B32 buses. The tour ends near a CitiBike Station, the J, M, Z, and L trains, and the B32, Q59, B62, B24, B39, B44, B46, B54, and B59 buses.

Location Information

RSVP is required and capacity is limited. Meeting location, ending location, and directions will be provided via email before walk date.

guided

Sunday, May 4, 2025
1:00 PM
90 minutes

Borough: Brooklyn
Theme: Environment, History & Culture
Language: English
Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Photo: Newtown Creek Alliance. Modifications: photo cropped.