Clemens Triangle

As New Yorkers, we cherish our green spaces, recognizing them as vital lungs within our urban environment. Beyond the grand expanses of Central Park or Prospect Park, our neighborhoods are dotted with smaller, equally significant parks that serve as local havens and community anchors. These often-overlooked gems offer a sense of respite, a place for connection, and a deeper understanding of our city's rich history. In the charming and historic neighborhood of Ridgewood, one such place stands out: Clemens Triangle.

Clemens Triangle is not just a patch of green; it's a living monument to both local history and enduring community spirit. Dedicated in honor of the 110 brave soldiers, sailors, and airmen from Ridgewood who sacrificed their lives in World War I, this triangle holds a profound historical significance. It was thoughtfully created through the efforts of community leader Carl E. Clemens, a former owner of the Ridgewood Times, solidifying its place in the neighborhood’s narrative. For us locals, it's a tangible link to the past, a place where generations have gathered to remember and reflect.

Beyond its solemn historical purpose, Clemens Triangle also actively serves the present-day community. It's a space where locals can find a moment of peace, engage in neighborhood activities, and experience the simple joy of green urban space. From annual memorial events that honor our veterans to lively community gatherings, including a seasonal fresh produce market, Clemens Triangle is a dynamic and integral part of Ridgewood life. It beautifully illustrates how a small public space can embody a powerful sense of pride and shared heritage, truly making it "our" park.

Clemens Triangle is prominently located at 56-3 Myrtle Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA. This address places it right in the heart of Ridgewood, a vibrant and historic neighborhood that straddles the border of Brooklyn and Queens. Its triangular shape and strategic placement at the intersection of Myrtle Avenue, Cypress Avenue, and Cornelia Street (or Putnam Avenue, depending on historical distinctions) make it a noticeable and easily accessible landmark within the community.

For those relying on public transportation, the accessibility of Clemens Triangle is a significant advantage. The Ridgewood area is well-served by New York City's subway and bus networks. The nearest subway lines are the L and M trains, with major stations such as Myrtle-Wyckoff Avenues and Seneca Avenue being within a reasonable walking distance or a very short bus ride. The Myrtle-Wyckoff Avenues station, in particular, is a key transit hub, offering direct connections to Manhattan, downtown Brooklyn, and various other parts of Queens. Multiple local bus routes operate along Myrtle Avenue and other intersecting streets, providing convenient stops practically at the park's doorstep, ensuring easy access for Ridgewood residents and visitors alike.

Given its central location, Clemens Triangle is highly walkable, allowing locals to easily incorporate a visit into their daily routines, whether they're heading to nearby shops, restaurants, or simply taking a stroll. While street parking can be typical for an urban environment, the extensive public transit options make it practical to visit without a car. The park's integration into the lively Myrtle Avenue corridor ensures it's not just a green space, but an active participant in the daily rhythm of the neighborhood.

As a public park and memorial plaza, Clemens Triangle offers "services" that are community-oriented and focus on public benefit rather than commercial transactions. These services are centered around providing a shared civic space, fostering community gathering, and preserving local history. Key "services" and functions of Clemens Triangle include:

• Public Green Space: The primary service is providing an accessible, open green space in a dense urban environment. This offers a place for relaxation, quiet contemplation, and enjoying nature amidst the cityscape.

• Historical Memorial: It serves as a permanent memorial dedicated to the Ridgewood residents who lost their lives in World War I, offering a site for remembrance, reflection, and honoring their sacrifice.

• Community Gathering Point: The park functions as a natural meeting point for local residents, fostering social interaction and a sense of community belonging.

• Outdoor Event Venue: Clemens Triangle frequently hosts various community events, including annual memorial ceremonies, parades, and local festivals. Its open layout is suitable for small to medium-sized outdoor gatherings.

• Fresh Produce Market: A significant service is hosting a seasonal fresh produce market (often referred to as a "Youth Farm Market" or "Greenmarket"). This provides locals with direct access to fresh, healthy, and often locally sourced fruits and vegetables, promoting healthy eating and supporting regional agriculture. This market typically operates on Saturdays from July to November.

• Educational Opportunity: Through its historical monuments and community activities, the park offers an informal educational experience, allowing residents to learn about local history, civic engagement, and sustainable practices.

• Streetscape Beautification: As a maintained public plaza, Clemens Triangle contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal and environmental health of the Myrtle Avenue commercial district, enhancing the urban streetscape.

• Cultural and Civic Engagement: The park supports various forms of civic and cultural engagement, from musical bands during Memorial Day to cooking demonstrations at the market, enriching the local community's cultural life.

These services, while not revenue-generating, are invaluable contributions to the quality of life for Ridgewood residents and the wider Queens community.

Clemens Triangle, despite its modest size, is packed with significant features and highlights that make it a cherished and important landmark in Ridgewood. These elements speak to its historical reverence, community utility, and aesthetic appeal:

• World War I Memorial Monument: The centerpiece of the triangle is a solemn and respectful memorial monument dedicated to the 110 Ridgewood soldiers, sailors, and airmen who perished in WWI. This serves as a powerful focal point for remembrance and reflection, reminding visitors of the neighborhood's profound connection to national history.

• Carl E. Clemens Tribute: The park itself is named in honor of Carl E. Clemens, a respected local community leader and former owner of the Ridgewood Times. This recognition highlights his contributions to the area and the community's appreciation for its historical figures.

• Seasonal Fresh Produce Market: A major highlight is the presence of a weekly fresh produce market (often from July to November on Saturdays). This market provides locals with convenient access to healthy, affordable produce, directly supporting community well-being and promoting sustainable food systems.

• Community Gathering Space: The triangular layout naturally lends itself to being a gathering spot. It’s ideal for small community events, impromptu meetings, or simply a place to meet neighbors, fostering the strong community spirit Ridgewood is known for, as evidenced by reviews mentioning "always meeting new ppl here."

• Musical and Ceremonial Events: Especially during Memorial Day, the park becomes a vibrant hub for musical bands and parades, creating a lively atmosphere that honors veterans and engages the wider community. This demonstrates its versatility as an event space.

• Green Respite in an Urban Setting: Despite its location on a busy commercial avenue, the park offers a much-needed green space for quiet contemplation, relaxation, and a breath of fresh air amidst the urban environment.

• Strategic Location: Its position at the intersection of key avenues (Myrtle, Cypress, Cornelia/Putnam) makes it easily identifiable and accessible, serving as a gateway or central point within the neighborhood.

These features collectively ensure that Clemens Triangle is not just a historical marker, but a dynamic and integral part of daily life in Ridgewood.

As a public park and historical memorial managed by NYC Parks and supported by local community efforts, Clemens Triangle does not offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense (e.g., discounts, sales, or loyalty programs). Its value is inherently public and accessible, focusing on providing free community resources and enriching local life. However, it does provide invaluable "offers" that benefit locals:

• Free Access to Green Space: The most significant "offer" is the unrestricted, free public access to a well-maintained green space in a dense urban environment. This provides a priceless opportunity for relaxation, reflection, and enjoying nature without any cost.

• Complimentary Community Events: The park regularly hosts free community events, including patriotic ceremonies on Memorial Day and other significant dates, which are open to all residents. These events offer cultural enrichment and opportunities for civic engagement.

• Access to Fresh Produce Market: The seasonal fresh produce market (Youth Farm Market/Greenmarket) offers affordable, fresh, and often locally sourced produce directly to the community. While the produce itself is purchased, the access to such a market in the neighborhood is a valuable "offer" for healthy eating and supporting local economies.

• Educational and Historical Insights: The presence of the World War I memorial and the park's history offers free educational opportunities for residents of all ages to learn about local heroes and significant historical events.

• Free Cultural Performances: During events like Memorial Day, the park may host musical bands and other performances, providing free entertainment and fostering a festive atmosphere for the community.

• Community Building and Social Interaction: The park naturally promotes social interaction and connection among neighbors, offering a free venue for meeting new people and strengthening community bonds, which is an invaluable "social promotion."

To learn about specific events, market schedules, or opportunities for community involvement, the best resources would be the NYC Parks website (searching for Clemens Triangle), the Myrtle Avenue BID website (which often promotes activities in local plazas), or local community bulletin boards and social media groups within the Ridgewood 11385 area.

As a public park under the purview of NYC Parks and often supported by local community groups, Clemens Triangle does not have a direct, dedicated phone line like a private business. However, you can typically reach relevant parties through general city services or local community organizations:

• Address: 56-3 Myrtle Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA

• NYC Parks & Recreation (General Information): (212) 639-9675 (This is a general NYC Parks phone number, not specific to Clemens Triangle, but can provide information about park policies, events, or direct you to relevant departments).

For more specific information related to events at Clemens Triangle, especially the fresh produce market or memorial ceremonies, it is highly recommended to consult the following:

• Myrtle Avenue Business Improvement District (BID): The Myrtle Avenue BID actively supports and promotes events and maintenance of plazas along Myrtle Avenue, including Clemens Triangle. Their website is an excellent source for event calendars and neighborhood news.

• GrowNYC: The organization behind many Greenmarkets and Youth Farm Markets in NYC. Their website would provide the most accurate and up-to-date schedule and details for the fresh produce market at Clemens Triangle.

• Local Community Board: Queens Community Board 5 (CB5) covers the Ridgewood area. Their website often publishes minutes from meetings that discuss park improvements or upcoming community events.

• NYC Parks Website: Searching for "Clemens Triangle" on the official NYC Parks website (nycgovparks.org) can provide historical information, basic park details, and sometimes links to upcoming events if they are city-managed.

Checking local Ridgewood community social media groups or bulletin boards can also be an effective way to stay informed about events and activities at the triangle, as these are often organized and promoted by neighborhood residents.

For us New Yorkers, particularly those living in the vibrant Ridgewood neighborhood, Clemens Triangle is profoundly suitable and undeniably invaluable. In a city where open space is a premium, this triangular park serves as a cherished urban oasis, offering a vital respite from the hustle and bustle. It provides a much-needed opportunity for locals to connect with nature, enjoy fresh air, and find a moment of peace right within their daily routines, without having to travel far.

Beyond its aesthetic and recreational benefits, Clemens Triangle holds deep historical significance for the community. As a memorial honoring the Ridgewood residents who served in World War I, it fosters a strong sense of civic pride and shared heritage. It’s a place where generations gather for solemn remembrance, vibrant parades, and community celebrations, truly embodying the spirit of neighborhood solidarity. This blend of historical reverence and active community life makes it a unique and cherished asset.

Furthermore, the park's role as a venue for the seasonal fresh produce market is a tremendous benefit for locals. It provides convenient access to healthy, often locally sourced food, promoting well-being and supporting a sustainable food system right in the heart of Ridgewood. This blend of history, community, and practicality makes Clemens Triangle an indispensable part of the neighborhood’s fabric. It's not just a park; it's a testament to Ridgewood's enduring spirit, a place where memories are made, history is honored, and community thrives.

Clemens Triangle

56-3 Myrtle Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385, USA