On This Day: Anniversary of Rockefeller’s Land Purchase

On This Day: January 6, 1917 🎉✨

Philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. made history when he purchased the land that would later become Fort Tryon Park! 🌳 Inspired by childhood walks with his father, Rockefeller acquired the Hays and Sheafer tracts, followed by the Billings estate, envisioning a stunning public space for all to enjoy.

By June 1917, he announced his generous plan to gift the park to NYC—on the condition it be connected to Fort Washington and Riverside Parks. Later, in 1933, Rockefeller further protected the beauty of this area by donating land across the Hudson to the Palisades Interstate Park. 🏞️

📸 This photograph of Rockefeller was taken during the park’s grand opening in 1935, celebrating the realization of his vision! 💚