Fort Greene Park

Myrtle Ave., De Kalb Ave. bet. Washington Park and St. Edward's St.

Brooklyn, 11201, 11205

Fort Greene's history is rife with important names--Walt Whitman, Nathaniel Greene, Frederick Law Olmsted, Calvert Vaux, William Howard Taft, and McKim, Mead and White, to name a few--hinting at the important role the park has played in the city's history. Originally the site of forts built for the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, the community surrounding the land started using it as public space shortly after the threat of the War of 1812 passed. By 1847, it was designated a park (Brooklyn's first), and twenty years later, famed landscape architects Olmsted and Vaux began designing its new layout. In 1897, the park, formerly known as Washington Park, received its name.

Hundreds of years after its early use for the good of the Revolution, Fort Greene Park continues to reward its neighborhood. A basketball court, playgrounds, and tennis courts, not to mention enriching events, sloping hills, and majestic trees, are a magnet for visitors from all walks of life.

Dig into the deep history of Fort Greene Park, and you will unearth a wealth of brave, passionate, creative Americans. Step foot on its grounds, and you will be inspired as you become part of its history.

Discover the history of Fort Greene Park

Events

Family Nature Crafts

While most of our programs are family friendly, the programs highlighted here are specifically for young children and...

Featured Monument

Prison Ship Martyrs Monument

Over 11,500 men and women that died in the Revolutionary War are buried in the crypt underneath this monument. Learn about the effort to build a suitable memorial, as well as the process of maintaining and restoring it.