DEFINING THE BOROUGH OF QUEENS, NY THROUGH ITS PEOPLE
2.3 million people. As many as 138 languages spoken here. Over 125 different neighborhoods.
Northeastern Queens: Latimer Gardens
Latimer Gardens is a low income New York City Housing Development in Flushing, Queens. It is bordered by 34th & 35th Avenues, Linden Place, Leavitt and 137th Streets. Established in 1970, Latimer Gardens consists of four 10 story buildings on 3.84 acres with 423 apartments and approximately 750 residents.
Latimer Gardens is named after Lewis H. Latimer. Born to runaway slaves, Latimer invented the incandescent light bulb with a carbon filament. He also made patent drawings of the first telephone for Alexander Graham Bell.
Pictured is the Latimer Gardens Community Center located on 137th Street. The Center features an after school program, summer camp, and various sports tournaments.
In October 2004, a 16 year old Tiffany Pelez stabbed 15 year old Frances Hynds to death over a dispute over a boyfriend in Latimer Gardens.
The History section is in collaboration with Steve Vazquez of Queenscapes.