Memorial Gore

New York City is a tapestry of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own story, hidden gems, and local landmarks. While many visitors flock to the well-trodden paths of Manhattan, true New Yorkers and curious explorers know that some of the city's most poignant and meaningful spots are found tucked away in the boroughs. One such place is Memorial Gore in Brooklyn, a small yet significant triangular park that serves as a quiet tribute to a vital part of our local history.

For those living in or visiting the New York region, understanding the rich layers of history embedded within our urban landscape can offer a deeper appreciation for the city we call home. Memorial Gore, despite its modest size, holds a powerful narrative, representing the sacrifices made by the community's soldiers during World War I. It's a place that invites contemplation and offers a glimpse into Brooklyn's past, reminding us of the enduring spirit of its residents.

The term "gore" itself is a fascinating piece of local park nomenclature, referring to a small, triangular piece of land, much like a "vest pocket park." Its origins can be traced to the Old English word "gara," meaning "corner." Brooklyn is notably the only borough to feature these unique "gores," with Memorial Gore being one of only three that still exist. This historical curiosity adds another layer of intrigue to this unassuming but important site.

Originally purchased by the City of Brooklyn in 1894 for a considerable sum, this small plot of land was transformed into a memorial dedicated on December 5, 1920, by the American Legion. The centerpiece of Memorial Gore is its World War Memorial, a powerful sculpture crafted by the renowned Piccirilli Brothers, who are also celebrated for their work on the iconic Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The monument is a fifteen-foot triangular shaft tower, topped by a marble ball that once served as a perch for a bronze eagle. While the original eagle was sadly stolen in the mid-1980s, dedicated local residents rallied to raise funds for its replacement, forming the "Friends of Memorial Gore." This demonstrates the enduring community spirit and the value placed on this memorial by those who live nearby.

Beyond its historical significance, Memorial Gore is a testament to ongoing community efforts to maintain and beautify public spaces. It has been incorporated into the Greenstreets program, which aims to transform formerly barren urban areas into vibrant green spaces. Since 1999, the site has benefited from funding that has allowed for new sidewalks, pavement, and plantings, enhancing its appearance and ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Visiting Memorial Gore offers New Yorkers a chance to connect with their local heritage, reflect on the sacrifices of past generations, and appreciate the small, deliberate efforts that contribute to the unique character of our city. It's a reminder that even in the busiest parts of New York, there are quiet corners of history waiting to be discovered.

Location and Accessibility

Memorial Gore is conveniently located in the heart of Brooklyn, situated at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and Bushwick Avenue, in the 11211 zip code. Its central placement in this vibrant neighborhood makes it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. Being at the confluence of several major streets, the area is well-served by public transportation, making a visit straightforward and convenient.

For those utilizing NYC's extensive subway system, the L train runs nearby, offering a direct route to the area. Several bus routes also frequent the intersection, providing additional options for reaching the memorial. While street parking can be a challenge in busy urban areas, public transit is highly recommended for a hassle-free visit, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere without the stress of navigating traffic or searching for parking. The accessibility of Memorial Gore truly makes it a neighborhood gem, easily integrated into a stroll through Bushwick or a wider exploration of Brooklyn's diverse communities.

Services Offered

• Historical Reflection: Memorial Gore serves as a dedicated space for reflection and remembrance of soldiers from the local community who served and died in World War I.
• Green Space: As part of the Greenstreets program, the site offers a small, well-maintained green area that contributes to urban beautification and provides a touch of nature amidst the bustling city environment.
• Monument Viewing: Visitors can view the World War Memorial sculpted by the Piccirilli Brothers, a historically significant piece of public art.
• Community History: The monument's inscriptions and the park's history provide insights into the local community's contributions and sacrifices during World War I.

Features / Highlights

• Triangular Park Design: Memorial Gore is a unique "gore" park, a small, triangular piece of land, a distinctive feature found primarily in Brooklyn.
• World War Memorial by Piccirilli Brothers: The centerpiece monument was created by the renowned sculptors responsible for the Lincoln Memorial, offering a significant artistic and historical focal point.
• Inscriptions of Soldiers' Names: The monument features inscriptions honoring the patriotism and devotion of the men from the 13th Assembly District who served in the World War, with some sides listing names of fallen soldiers.
• Bronze Eagle (Replaced): While the original was stolen, a replacement bronze eagle perches atop the monument, symbolizing strength and remembrance.
• Urban Greenstreet Site: The park is a Greenstreets site, showcasing ongoing efforts to integrate green infrastructure into urban landscapes and enhance neighborhood aesthetics.
• Proximity to Bushwick & Williamsburg: Its location at a busy intersection in Brooklyn places it within easy reach of the vibrant cultural and commercial hubs of Bushwick and Williamsburg.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a public memorial and park maintained by NYC Parks, Memorial Gore does not typically offer commercial promotions or special offers in the traditional sense. Its value lies in its historical significance and its role as a quiet, reflective space for the community. However, its accessibility and status as a free public site can be considered a perpetual "offer" to all New Yorkers seeking a moment of quiet contemplation or a connection to local history. Any specific events or commemorative gatherings held at the site would be announced by NYC Parks or local community organizations, often free and open to the public, offering a special opportunity to engage with the memorial's purpose.

Contact Information

Memorial Gore is a public park space and does not have a dedicated on-site office or direct phone line for public inquiries. For general information regarding NYC Parks and specific details about Memorial Gore, you can refer to the official NYC Parks website. For immediate concerns or inquiries related to park maintenance or public events, the city's 311 service is the appropriate contact point.

Address: Metropolitan Ave & Bushwick Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Memorial Gore, while not a sprawling recreational park or a grand tourist destination, holds a unique and profound significance for locals in the New York region, particularly those in Brooklyn. For New Yorkers, understanding and appreciating the fabric of their city extends beyond the iconic landmarks to the quieter, more personal monuments that tell the story of their neighborhoods and communities. Memorial Gore is precisely one of these places.

Firstly, its historical importance is undeniable. As a World War I memorial, it serves as a tangible link to a pivotal moment in history and pays tribute to the sacrifices made by ordinary Brooklynites. In a city that is constantly evolving, these fixed points of remembrance offer grounding and a sense of continuity. For families, it can be a place to teach younger generations about history, patriotism, and the importance of civic memory, without the crowds or distractions of larger museums.

Secondly, Memorial Gore is a testament to local community spirit. The fact that local residents rallied to replace the stolen bronze eagle speaks volumes about the pride and care they have for this site. It highlights the power of collective action and the enduring connection people feel to their local heritage. Visiting Memorial Gore means supporting these community efforts, even if indirectly, by acknowledging the value of such spaces.

Furthermore, its very nature as a "gore" – a small, triangular park – makes it uniquely Brooklyn. It's a subtle architectural and historical quirk that adds to the borough's distinct character. For those who appreciate the nuances of urban design and the hidden stories within the city's grid, Memorial Gore offers a point of interest that differentiates it from more generic public spaces.

While some public reviews might lament the lack of recreational facilities, it's crucial to understand that Memorial Gore’s primary purpose is not recreation but commemoration and reflection. It is a place for quiet respect, not active play. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and its solemn purpose. In a city often characterized by its frenetic pace, having such a tranquil, dedicated space for contemplation is a valuable asset.

In essence, Memorial Gore is suitable for locals because it is their history, their community's tribute, and a quiet corner that embodies a unique part of Brooklyn's identity. It encourages a moment of pause, a connection to the past, and an appreciation for the smaller, yet deeply meaningful, pieces of our urban environment. It's a local treasure, often overlooked by tourists but cherished by those who truly know and love New York.

Memorial Gore

Metropolitan Ave &, Bushwick Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA