“Heaven on Hudson” is how author Stephanie Azzarone describes the Upper West Side in her newly released book of the same name, Heaven on the Hudson: Mansions, Monuments, and Marvels of Riverside Park. A longtime resident of Riverside Drive, Azzarone has spent countless hours strolling through the neighboring Riverside Park. A love of the park sparked Azzarone’s interest in learning more about the history of how this urban oasis came to be and how it has evolved over the years. In her new book, Azzarone explores the origin, evolution, and scandals of Riverside Park and Riverside Drive through stories of the movers and shakers who made them.
This talk will start at the very beginning with the rocky start of Riverside Park. You’ll discover who was really responsible for the creation of Riverside Park and Riverside Drive and uncover stories of scandals that plagued the neighborhood’s creators – from bankruptcy to murder. Azzarone will discuss how the neighborhood was conceived, promoted, designed – and later redesigned – by a group of powerful men including well-known names like Frederick Law Olmsted and Robert Moses – as well as others who have been long forgotten.
Wall with two men: Milstein Division, The New York Public Library. Courtesy of Stephanie Azzarone
Tracing the story of the neighborhood from creation to the present day, you’ll hear about some of its famous residents like Babe Ruth and the Gershwins. And of course, the mansions! In this talk, you’ll revisit the most stunning Riverside estates and learn why, despite all the wealth and glamor, Riverside Drive never became “the new Fifth Avenue.”
Boy with telescope: Byron Company, Museum of the City of New York. Courtesy of Stephanie Azzarone
A native New Yorker, Azzarone has lived on Riverside Drive most of her life and has spent many joyous hours wandering through Riverside Park. A former journalist (freelancer for The New York Times and New York magazine, among others), she also ran an award-winning Manhattan public relations agency. Currently, she is studying for her tour guide certification with the goal of sharing her knowledge of Upper West Side life along the Hudson River with natives and tourists alike. A graduate of New York University, Azzarone has a degree in Journalism. Join the author for a members-only virtual book talk on December 1st!
