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Once a cornerstone of New York City life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, public baths were magnificent municipal buildings that served a critical purpose for many residents. For those living in the city's cramped, overcrowded tenements—often without running water—these baths were a lifeline. Today, scattered across...

In the colonial era and into the 19th century, New Yorkers kept cows right in the city, grazing them on public commons and squares. As the city grew, farmers from the surrounding areas supplied milk to vendors, who would deliver it door-to-door. They'd fill pitchers from buckets carried on...

Where did New Yorkers dump their garbage and waste in the old days? A hundred years ago, just like in other states, New York had a huge waste disposal problem. Even in the city's wealthier neighborhoods, when the snow melted in March, the streets were not only dirty, but...

Did you know that New York is the third-largest wine-producing state in the US? While California leads the pack with over 80% of the nation's wine production and Washington holds the second spot at 5%, New York contributes a respectable 3% to 4%. The state is home to 400...

Over the past few years, climate change has started to take a toll on the quality of life for New Yorkers. In response, city officials have launched a large number of programs and initiatives to improve the situation. We'll delve into how Manhattan is tackling climate change on manhattanname.com. Key...

Thomas Edison's invention of the incandescent light bulb and a complete system for generating and distributing direct current was a scientific breakthrough that changed the world. The electric era officially began on September 4, 1882. On that day, the Pearl Street Station fired up in Manhattan's financial district, becoming...

Americans generate more trash than anyone else on the planet—three times the global average per person. New York City, with its population of over 8 million, produces more than 10,000 tons of waste and recycling every single day. To find out how this megacity handles its trash and how...

In New York City, the concrete jungle that never sleeps, eco-tourism is gaining popularity year after year. All five boroughs, including Manhattan, offer diverse resources for sustainable living. Tourists can discover eco-friendly attractions, restaurants, hotels, and a variety of green transportation options. Read on to learn more about how...

New York City's deep, salty rivers made it a popular port, but they also wreaked havoc on its drinking water. By the mid-18th century, Manhattan's water was infamous for its scarcity and terrible taste – a problem stemming from human blunders made way back when Europeans first settled the...

On March 25, 1911, a fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory became the deadliest industrial disaster in New York City’s history and one of the most devastating in the nation. Within minutes, flames engulfed the top floors of the 10-story building. Drawn by a pillar of smoke and the...