Walking Directions: Stay in the garden or the front porch of 79 Beekman. This stop is located across from Scudder’s Market. You will then head South towards the corner of Oak.
Listen
The Story
78 Beekman was an anchor of the Beekman community throughout the years. Originally opened as a grocery in 1919 by the Scuderi family, the building went through several incarnations through the decades as a pizzeria, a jewelry store and now as the Kraverie restaurant. The timeline below was designed by Skidmore anthropology student Katie Dinart, class of 2023.
It’s initial fame was as a grocery market and then as a market/deli called “Scudders” which was famous for its large sandwiches made on the fresh bread from Cottone’s Bakery around the corner on Ash and Elm Street. After Scudders closed it was known as the beloved Marino’s Pizza which is now located on West Circular Street.
There were many markets on the West Side as most of residents who lived on the side streets (Ash, Oak, Elm, etc) had large gardens in front or behind their houses along with grape arbors to make their wine. Most grew their own food for their families while others sold their produce at local markets or produce stands.
Artwork
The sketches above reflect the view of 78 Beekman from my studio/gallery across the street at 79 Beekman. The families who owned both these buildings were closely related and owned another building further down on Beekman.
Please note the Stop numbers are slightly out of order – this is temporary. Stop # 3 is further along Beekman. You will turn left on Oak for stops 4-6 and return to the same corner before proceeding to Stop 3.
West Side Heritage Tour 