Greenwich Village Tutors Come To You

Greenwich Village is an unique and iconic neighborhood in Manhattan, New York. The recorded history of Greenwich dates back to the early 1600’s, when it was a large tobacco field utilized by Native Americans. It would later become small hamlet, located outside of New York City. The area developed slowly, with interesting bits of history sprinkled throughout its past. For example, Greenwich was the site Newgate Prison, New York State’s first penitentiary. The prison was located north of New York City, so being sentenced to Newgate was referred to as, “being sent up the river;” an idiom still used today. New York City suffered many epidemics, and the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1882, is what led to the growth of Greenwich Village. Residents of New York City fled to Greenwich for cleaner, healthier air and many decided to stay.

During the late 19th century and into the 20th century, Greenwich Village established itself as the epicenter of American Bohemian culture. The area is known for its residents’ progressive attitudes, and new political, artistic, and cultural movements. The alternative culture began in the 19th century, when it first became home to many small presses, art galleries, and experimental theatres. Throughout the decades, the Village would continue to support and foster the eccentric lifestyle.

One location, that helped promote this atmosphere was Hotel Albert. Hotel Albert began as Hotel St. Stephen in the 1880’s. Despite the name change, the hotel maintained its purpose as a meetinging place, restaurant, and home for artists and writers deep into the twentieth century. Guests of the hotel included Augustus St. Gaudens, Robert Louis Stevenson, Mark Twain, Hart Crane, Walt Whitman, Anais Nin, Thomas Wolfe, Robert Lowell, Horton Foote, Salvador Dali, Philip Guston, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and several others.

The Village is also home to the nation’s first integrated nightclub, Cafe Society. Cafe Society created the opportunity for African American artists to display their talent; many of whom became famous Jazz and Blues musicians. Performers included, Count Basie, Nat King Cole, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Lead Belly, Charlie Parker, Les Paul and Mary Ford, Teddy Wilson, Lester Young, and many more.

Another important landmark in Greenwich Village is Cherry Lane Theatre; the longest continuously running off-broadway theater in New York City. Cherry Lane is considered the predecessor of The Living Theatre, Theatre of the Absurd, and the Downtown Theatre movement. It was also known as the place for aspiring playwrights to showcase their work. Within the Village were several theatres and galleries that would lay the foundation for the Greenwich culture. The early 1900’s, created an environment that propelled young artists into the limelight, and helped modern movements succeed. Today, the neighborhood continues its pedigree of arts and bohemia; while it strives to preserve its heritage, and tutor other about its influential history.

Greenwich tutors want every student do well in school. If your student needs help, a Greenwich tutor could be the answer. Every student deserves the chance to succeed.