Discover the History and Diversity of Cortelyou, Brooklyn

Cortelyou is a neighborhood in the New York City borough of Brooklyn. It is located in the northern part of the borough, bordered by the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway to the west, the Long Island Rail Road to the east, and the neighborhoods of Flushing to the north and East New York to the south.

The name "Cortelyou" comes from a Dutch colonist named Jacobus Van Cortlandt, who owned land in the area in the 17th century. The neighborhood was once known as "Cortlandt's Land" or "Cortelyou's Farm." Over time, the name evolved into "Cortelyou."

Cortelyou is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It is home to several parks, including the Cortelyou Commons and the Van Cortlandt Park, which features a large public pool, sports fields, and a nature center. The neighborhood is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with several galleries and performance spaces.

Cortelyou has a long history, dating back to the early 19th century when it was a rural area with farms and estates. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the neighborhood underwent significant development, with the construction of homes, schools, and businesses. Today, Cortelyou is a thriving community with a strong sense of pride and a diverse population.