The iconic intersection of Ludlow and Rivington Streets, now officially designated as “Beastie Boys Square,” stands preserved as a piece of New York music history.

Bishop’s Crook lampposts were first used in New York City around 1900…less than 100 still exist today. On the Lower East Side they remind us that we’re in one of the most historically rich neighborhoods in our city, alive with cultural institutions that celebrate that history and our diverse community today. Don’t forget to look up and enjoy the urban architecture of yesteryear, and stay tuned for more features of our storied spaces on banners this spring.

During Black History Month, a time when we acknowledge the contributions of the Black community in our own spaces and reflect on how those histories show up in our neighborhoods. Like many neighborhoods in New York City, the Lower East Side is teeming with evidence of historic Black communities.