Sheepshead Bay and Nostrand Houses | Brooklyn NY
The NYCHA Sheepshead-Nostrand development has occupied the site since 1950. Initially built to house returning veterans and working families, Sheepshead-Nostrand Houses is now home to a diverse and complex group of low-income residents. It also reflects the growing population of seniors that are emerging across the city as waves of baby boomers turn 60 and older. This phenomenon has been coined a NORC - Naturally Occurring Retirmenet Community.
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Prior to becoming a Public Housing project, the site attracted millionaires and prestigious figures of the late 19th century as a resort and entertainment destination. Its 50 acres footprint sits squarely within the Sheepshead Bay Race Track built in 1880 and expanded upon in the next decade to become the premiere racetrack in the country. After horse-betting was banned, the track transitioned to a race track for cars, eventually shutting down from bankrupcy. Its evolution to the current state reflected political and economic shifts. A brief timeline below captures the rich history of this site.
Images
Sheepshead Bay Race Track
The races was a popular destination at the end of the 19th Century.
High Society
The well-to-do not only attended the races but also invested heavily in the development of Sheepshead Bay.
Sheepshead Bay Speedway
From racing horses to racing cars
Car vs. Plane
The 1916 "Earth and Air Match" at Sheepshead Bay Race Track between female pilot, Katherine Stinson and race car driver, Dario Restacar.
Public Housing
Built in 1950 for veterans and working families, Sheepshead-Nostrand Houses still operates as public housing today.
Links
Historical Timeline
1924 vs. Present Day
Environmental Vulnerability
Statistics
Demographics
