7. Famous Sunnyside residents have included none other than Hitler’s nephew
Many influential people helped craft Sunnyside into the diverse and historic community it is today. One unexpected resident of Sunnyside was William Patrick Stuart-Houston, the nephew of Adolf Hitler, who lived briefly in Sunnyside until serving in the U.S. Navy against his half-uncle. He was drafted as a pharmacist’s mate after making a special request to President Roosevelt. Legendary jazz musician Bix Beiderbecke, a cornetist and composer, died at 43–30 46th Street, as explained by a plaque in his honor outside the building.
The Ramones played some of their earliest gigs at pubs in the neighborhood, while Hap Moran of the New York Giants coached a youth team there. Other famous residents have included actress Judy Holliday, actor Joe Spinell, and actress Nancy Walker, making the area a popular place for up-and-coming actors. Former Police Commissioner Dermot Shea lived in Sunnyside as well.