SoHo, an area in Lower Manhattan, is known for its chic boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. This neighborhood’s name has become synonymous with high-end fashion and artsy vibes. But what is the origin of the name SoHo New York? This article explores the history of SoHo, from its early days as a Dutch colony to its evolution into a bustling artistic hub.
Early History of SoHo
Long before the trendy shops and restaurants of SoHo, the area was a swampy land with a small stream running through it. The land was initially inhabited by the Lenape tribe, who called the area "Manhattan" or "Island of Hills." In the early 17th century, the Dutch West India Company established a trading post in the area, and it became known as New Amsterdam.
The Dutch Influence
During the Dutch colonial period, the area now known as SoHo was called "Breuckelen." The Dutch imported their brick-making techniques and built structures from red bricks. They also introduced the idea of gabled roofs and brick stoops, which can still be seen in some of the older buildings in SoHo.
The Rise of Industry in SoHo
In the 19th century, manufacturing became the primary industry in SoHo. The area was home to many textile factories, and the streets were filled with warehouses, factories, and sweatshops. However, as the textile industry declined, the buildings were abandoned and left to decay.
The Cast-Iron Architecture
In the mid-19th century, new building techniques allowed for the construction of taller, lighter, and more ornate buildings. The most significant innovation was the use of cast-iron facades, which were fire-resistant, cheaper, and more durable than traditional brick. The new buildings were often seven or eight stories tall, and the ornate ironwork made them some of the most beautiful buildings in New York City.
The Emergence of Art in SoHo
In the 1960s, artists began to move into the abandoned factories and warehouses of SoHo. The large, open spaces were perfect for creating art studios, and the cheap rent made it an attractive place for struggling artists. The area soon became an artistic mecca, with galleries, performance spaces, and studios popping up all over SoHo.
The Birth of the Name SoHo
The name "SoHo" is thought to be a reference to the London neighborhood of the same name, which stands for "South of Houston Street." In the early 1970s, a local real estate agent named Chester Rapkin began using the term "SoHo" to describe the area in his listings. The name quickly caught on, and soon, everyone was referring to the neighborhood as SoHo.
The Origins of SoHo’s Name
The name "SoHo" is believed to have been coined by a group of artists who were looking for a way to describe the neighborhood’s unique character. They took inspiration from the London neighborhood of the same name, which was known for its artistic community and bohemian vibe. The term "SoHo" originally stood for "South of Houston Street," which was the neighborhood’s southern boundary.
The SoHo Art Scene
The SoHo art scene of the 1970s and 1980s was one of the most vibrant and exciting in New York City’s history. The area was home to some of the most famous artists of the time, including Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Robert Mapplethorpe. The galleries and studios of SoHo attracted art collectors and enthusiasts from all over the world.
The Evolution of SoHo
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, SoHo continued to evolve. The neighborhood became more upscale, with high-end boutiques and art galleries replacing the cheaper studios and workshops of the past. However, the artistic community remained a vital part of the neighborhood’s character, and many of the historic buildings were preserved and renovated.
SoHo Today
Today, SoHo is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in New York City. The area is known for its high-end fashion boutiques, trendy restaurants, and impressive art galleries. The historic buildings and cast-iron architecture give SoHo a unique character that is unmatched by any other neighborhood in the city.
Conclusion
The origin of the name SoHo New York is rooted in the neighborhood’s unique history. From its early days as a Dutch colony to its rise as an artistic hub and upscale shopping district, SoHo has always been a neighborhood of contrasts. Today, it remains one of the most exciting and vibrant areas in New York City, and its name has become synonymous with fashion, art, and luxury.
