Mc Nally Plaza

For local residents of Washington Heights in Upper Manhattan, McNally Plaza, located at McNally Plz, New York, NY 10033, USA, serves as a small yet historically significant green space. While it may not be a sprawling recreational park, its designation as a "Scenic Spot" is derived from its unique blend of historical commemoration, strategic location, and urban aesthetic. It offers a point of reflection and a visual landmark within a bustling urban environment, making it a place of interest for both its historical narrative and its surrounding views.

The environment of McNally Plaza is intrinsically linked to its position as part of the approach to the historic Washington Bridge, which spans the Harlem River. This location provides the plaza with a distinct character, embedding it within the city's infrastructure and offering specific vistas. The plaza itself is described as a "tiny park," a small section of the larger Highbridge Park. Despite its diminutive size, its setting provides a unique perspective of the surrounding area. Being situated near the Washington Bridge, it likely offers views of the Harlem River and the bridge's impressive steel-arched structure, which has been hailed as the "finest steel-arched bridge of the 19th century" and "the glory of the Harlem River." While one user notes that walking on the busy bridge itself is not recommended, for a short distance, it "offers the most amazing views of the East River and of the foliage in High Bridge Park below." This suggests that the plaza, as part of the bridge's approach, inherits some of these scenic qualities, particularly the natural beauty of Highbridge Park's cliffs and rock outcroppings and the changing foliage in the fall.

The historical environment of the plaza is deeply significant. It is named in honor of World War I soldier Corporal Richard J. McNally, who lived in Washington Heights and was killed in action shortly before the war's end. The plaza and its memorial were named on December 14, 1920, and a plaque was erected to honor him and other local soldiers. This historical context transforms the plaza from a mere patch of green into a commemorative space, offering a tangible link to the past and serving as a reminder of local sacrifice. The surrounding neighborhood of Washington Heights itself is steeped in history, named for George Washington due to its role in the Revolutionary War, particularly the Battle of Fort Washington. This rich historical tapestry of the area further enhances the environment of McNally Plaza, placing it within a broader context of significant New York City history.

In terms of features, the central element of McNally Plaza is the World War I memorial dedicated to Corporal Richard J. McNally and the men who gave their lives in the war. This memorial typically consists of a tablet on a stele and a flagstaff, made of bronze and Deer Island granite, dedicated on May 30, 1921. The inscription on the monument lists an honor roll of 62 names, indicating the local connection of the soldiers. This memorial serves as a primary feature, inviting contemplation and remembrance. As a small park, it likely includes basic urban park amenities such as benches for seating, allowing visitors to rest and observe their surroundings. Its design as part of the bridge approach implies a certain level of urban landscaping and integration with the surrounding infrastructure. The "fall foliage" mentioned by a reviewer suggests that the park also features trees and plantings that provide seasonal beauty, contributing to its visual appeal.

Regarding services, McNally Plaza primarily offers the public service of a commemorative space and a small urban green area for passive recreation. As a public park managed by NYC Parks, it provides free and open access to its historical marker and its limited green space. While there are no explicit services or goods for sale within the plaza itself, its function as a memorial provides an invaluable service of historical education and community remembrance. It serves as a focal point for honoring local heroes and reflecting on historical events. Its location adjacent to the Washington Bridge and within the dense Washington Heights neighborhood means that visitors have immediate access to the myriad services and amenities of the surrounding urban area, including local businesses, transportation, and other larger parks like Highbridge Park.

Promotional information for McNally Plaza is largely implicit in its historical designation and its role as a memorial. Its inclusion in historical signs and databases, such as the NYC Parks historical sign listings and The Historical Marker Database, serves to promote its significance and draw attention to its historical value. The fact that it is named after a local World War I soldier provides a compelling local narrative that resonates with community members. For those interested in New York City's military history, urban infrastructure, or simply seeking a quiet spot for reflection with a view, McNally Plaza serves as a niche "Scenic Spot." Its continuous presence as a public space, supported by the NYC Parks Department, ensures its ongoing accessibility and role as a local landmark. The plaza's enduring presence, marking a moment in history and honoring local sacrifice, is its strongest promotional aspect, drawing visitors who seek to connect with the past and appreciate its unique urban setting.

Mc Nally Plaza

Mc Nally Plz, New York, NY 10033, USA