Bayside, a community renowned for its illustrious past filled with famous personalities, has some old maps that could take you on a nostalgic journey back to its star-studded history.
For years, the area has been a curiosity magnet, attracting inquiries about the homes of notable actors and actresses who once graced its streets. These pieces of history were previously pieced together from scattered documents within local archives.
The “Celebrity Map,” a unique artifact once distributed by Thomas Van Riper Realtors, shines a spotlight on the residential addresses of celebrities and politicians in the Bayside/Flushing area, including musicians like Bob Dylan and Paul Simon. The map also features a comprehensive list of street names and locations of significant landmarks and destinations, offering a window into the neighborhood’s rich cultural landscape.
Published in 1985, the Van Riper map is more than just a guide to celebrity homes — it is a time capsule that captures the essence of Bayside during a bygone era. It serves as a poignant reminder of the community’s vibrant history, paralleling another document from the same year that meticulously cataloged the local shops peppering Bayside’s streets.
This map at the Bayside’s historical society’s archives not only enriches the community’s understanding of its heritage but also ignites a sense of pride in the area’s contribution to the arts and politics. As residents and visitors trace the footsteps of Bayside’s famous past through the Van Riper map, they embark on a journey that bridges decades, celebrating a legacy that continues to enchant and inspire.
