#238 Astoria and Long Island City

The borough of Queens has a history unlike any in the New York City region, but the story of its northwestern region -- comprising Astoria, Long Island City and about a half dozen other, smaller neighborhoods -- is particularly surprising. And there are basic aspects of these wonderful neighborhoods, fundamental to every day life here, that you may have never known. How did Astoria get its name? John Jacob Astor is involved, but not in the way you think. Was Long Island City an actual city? Well, technically, yes. In the 19th century, it was certainly corrupt like a modern city! How important to Astoria history is the Steinway Piano Factory? So important that modern Astoria would not exist in its present form without it. In 2017, why is Long Island City full of new developments and Astoria almost none? The secret is imbedded in its history, in decisions that were made 150 years ago. And it all begins with a brutal murder -- in a little place called Hallet's Cove. STARRING: Robert Moses, Tony Bennett, Isamu Noguchi and the casts of dozens of TV and movies. Not to mention the best selection of food in New York City! Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/boweryboys