My grandparents and great-grandparents (Greco, Armato and DiConcilio) immigrated to NYC from Italy, coming through Ellis Island at the beginning of the 20th century. They settled in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, raising their families and contributing to the growth of the city they now called home. This series, Growing Up Brooklyn features photos, stories, traditions, and memories of living in Brooklyn. I can’t imagine a better place or time to grow up.
When I was a young child, our family spent the summers vacationing in upstate New York, staying in one of the local bungalow colonies that were popular during that time. We spent our days visiting all the family attractions in the surrounding area, such as Catskill Game Farm.
My mother, Aunt Mary, cousin Robert, Aunt Marie in the back. Myself and cousin Mark in the front.
Some history:
- The Catskill Game Farm was the first privately owned zoo in the United States.
- Over time it housed almost 2,000 animals representing over 150 species.
Me, chilling out with the deer. (1968/1969)
Being able to interact with some of the beautiful creatures made Catskill Game Farm the perfect place for curious children. If I recall, we were able to feed some of the animals.
Resources:
The Old Game Farm
Catskill Game Farm Wikipedia page
The Catskills Institute
Joanne, These are such great memories I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Catskill Game Farm and Carson City, I grew up in Bensonhurst too in fact I’m still here. My mom and dad took us to both places as kids as well as Lake George, Gaslight Village and Storytown. Thanks for recalling these innocent happy fun filled times.
Yes, we went to Storytown also! You’re right about the happy fun-filled times. I’m so glad to have been raised at the time I was. We left Brooklyn in 2002 and it will always be home to me. Thank you for stopping by!