Online Lecture: A Place in the Sun — A History of New York’s Beaches

Break out the Coppertone and hop on the subway or a parkway, we’re heading to the sand and surf surrounding New York City this summer. For the last three centuries, New Yorkers have day-tripped to escape the heat and experience that magical place where the ocean meets the shore. They traveled by paddle wheeler, steam train, electric trolley, subway, bus, and the family car to visit the beach, from exclusive resorts to the “playground of millions”. Coney Island, Brighton Beach, The Rockaways, Jones Beach, Orchard Beach, Riis Park all hold a special place in the memories of New Yorkers and are familiar worldwide from their portrayal in media and literature. Join historian John Kriskiewicz to learn how these beaches have developed a unique architecture and infrastructure, a diverse and ever-changing persona across their histories, reflecting the aspirations of the beach goers themselves.

Your online lecture will take place live over the course of 1-2 hours. All times are listed in the EASTERN time zone. If you live in a different time zone, please adjust your schedule accordingly. This live online experience uses Zoom Webinar, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. You will receive a confirmation email when you enroll, and a reminder email one week and one day before, as well as the morning of the event with a link and instructions on how to tune in. You will not be pictured on screen during the lecture, but you will have the opportunity to ask the instructor live questions using the Q&A box. Unless otherwise noted, all those who enroll in this program receive access to the live event as well as a recording of the lecture that you can watch any time within the two weeks following the live event.