Central Park in New York City opened in 1857 when America had only 31 states. Major construction began 4 years before the Civil War started and continued through the war with final completion being in 1873. Twenty-five million people a year visit Central Park. It is one of the most filmed locations in the world. The Park has 15 bridges, 21 arches, 7 ornamental fountains, and 9,000 benches.
Known as the “grand prominade” the Mall is a 1/4 mile pedestrian walkway through the middle of Central Park. It was one of the first areas built and is the only intentionally straight line in the Park.The first two photos are dated ca. 1900 and 1894 respectively.
